Sightsavers is seeking a qualified and experienced Programme Officer to support the implementation of a large-scale social impact initiative in Kenya. This full-time, fixed-term position is based in Nairobi and offers an opportunity to contribute to inclusive development and youth empowerment across Africa.
The role is part of a five-year programme focused on improving access to dignified employment for young people with disabilities, with particular emphasis on empowering young women. The contract is for 24 months and is renewable subject to funding availability.
Programme Overview
Sightsavers is delivering a multi-country initiative spanning seven African nations, aimed at strengthening access to the digital economy for underserved populations. The programme integrates digital skills training, entrepreneurship support, and employer engagement to reduce barriers to employment.
Core programme objectives include:
- Expanding access to digital and IT skills training
- Promoting inclusive employment opportunities
- Supporting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment
- Strengthening partnerships with employers and stakeholders
- Advancing disability inclusion and gender equality
The Programme Officer will play a central role in delivering these objectives within Kenya.
Role Purpose and Responsibilities
The Programme Officer will oversee the coordination and implementation of programme activities, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and donor requirements.
Key responsibilities include:
Programme Implementation and Coordination
- Support development of annual work plans, budgets, and activity schedules
- Coordinate digital, IT, and entrepreneurship training initiatives
- Facilitate collaboration among programme stakeholders
Partnership Management
- Maintain regular communication with implementing partners
- Monitor progress and address implementation challenges
- Support partner capacity building in inclusion, safeguarding, and compliance
Employer Engagement and Inclusion
- Identify and engage potential employers
- Promote inclusive hiring practices
- Facilitate internships, mentorships, and job placements for participants
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Monitor financial performance and ensure adherence to budgets
- Promote gender and disability inclusion across all activities
- Ensure safeguarding, child protection, and data protection standards are upheld
Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Reporting (MEAL)
- Collect and analyse programme data in line with reporting frameworks
- Conduct field visits and beneficiary assessments
- Track participant progress and programme impact
This role may involve limited national travel within Kenya.
Required Skills and Experience
Candidates must demonstrate strong experience in programme implementation within NGO or development contexts, particularly in areas related to youth employment and inclusion.
Essential qualifications and experience include:
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, ICT, Education, Development Studies, Business, or related field
- Proven experience in project implementation within NGOs, INGOs, or social impact programmes
- Experience in digital skills training, entrepreneurship development, or labour market initiatives
- Strong understanding of disability inclusion and gender equality principles
- Experience working with youth, training institutions, private sector employers, or Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs)
- Knowledge of Kenyan policies related to employment, disability inclusion, and digital transformation
- Excellent coordination, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Proficiency in digital tools and project management systems
- Strong analytical, reporting, and documentation capabilities
The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
Workplace Culture and Benefits
Sightsavers is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. As a Disability Confident Leader, the organisation actively encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.
Key workplace values include:
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Zero tolerance for harassment, exploitation, and abuse
- Investment in employee training and development
- Supportive and collaborative team culture
Compensation and benefits are aligned with local terms and conditions.
Application Process and Timeline
Interested applicants are required to submit their applications through the official recruitment portal.
Key details:
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Contract Duration: 24 months (renewable)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Closing Date: 6 April 2026
- Interview Period: Week commencing 20 April 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as recruitment may be conducted on a rolling basis.
Conclusion
The Programme Officer role at Sightsavers offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to inclusive development and youth empowerment in Africa. By supporting access to digital skills and employment opportunities for young people with disabilities, the successful candidate will play a key role in driving sustainable social impact.
