MCC/MCA Lesotho Project

Communication and Advocacy Specialist (Capacity Building)

FHI 360 is a non-profit human development organization dedicated to advancing equity, health, and wellbeing through data-driven, locally led solutions — so that humanity thrives. Our staff includes experts in Health, Education, Nutrition, Environment, Economic Development, Civil Society, Gender, Youth, Research and Technology; creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today’s interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 60 countries, all 50 U.S. states and all U.S. territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Communication and Advocacy Specialist (Capacity Building) for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) project in Lesotho. The position will be based in Maseru, Lesotho

Project description:

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has entered into a new Compact, Compact II with the Government of Lesotho (GOL). Recognizing that strong human capital is key to driving poverty reduction (Lesotho scores only 0.4 on the Human Capital Index, indicating that a child born today would only be as 40% as productive as if they were to attain good health), $75m of the Compact has been allocated to the Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) Project which will improve outcomes through strengthening Lesotho’s Primary Health Care (PHC) system. The project focuses on sustainably improving clinical service delivery, building the capacity of district health management teams (DHMTs), and the inclusion of gender-based violence clinical treatment and response protocols in line with the requirements of the 2022 Domestic Violence Bill.

Position Overview:

The Communication and Advocacy Specialist, being recruited to support the Ministry of Health’s Health Education Department, plays a critical role in enhancing communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts. This position focuses on building the capacity of health education professionals to effectively communicate health-related information, promote public health initiatives, and drive positive change. The Communication and Advocacy Specialist will report to the Deputy Project Director.

Responsibilities:

Capacity Building:

• Develop and implement capacity-building programs for health education staff.
• Conduct training sessions on effective communication techniques, media engagement, and advocacy strategies.
• Strengthen the department’s ability to disseminate health information to diverse audiences.

Communication Strategy:

• Collaborate with health educators to create comprehensive communication plans.
• Ensure alignment with national health priorities and evidence-based practices.
• Develop clear messaging for health campaigns and educational materials.

Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Advocate for health education policies and programs.
• Engage with key stakeholders, including community leaders, NGOs, and government agencies.
• Foster partnerships to amplify health messages and mobilize resources.

Content Creation:

• Produce high-quality content, including brochures, fact sheets, videos, and social media posts.
• Tailor messages for different target groups.
• Ensure culturally sensitive and accessible communication materials.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Track the impact of communication efforts and capacity-building initiatives.
• Collect feedback from health educators and adjust strategies as needed.
• Measure success through key performance indicators (KPIs).

Collaboration:

• Work closely with other departments, health institutions, and external partners.

• Participate in inter-agency working groups related to health communication.

Resource Mobilization:

• Support fundraising efforts for health education programs.
• Assist in proposal writing and concept note development.
• Identify potential funding sources and partnerships.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in communication, public health, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.

Experience and requirements:

• At least 5 years of experience in communication, advocacy, or health education roles.
• At least 5 years of writing, editing, and publications experience.
• Familiarity with health promotion, disease prevention, and behaviour change communication.
• Articulate, professional and able to communicate in a clear, positive manner with clients and staff.
• Prior experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private company.
• Has sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of the political, contextual, and ethical issues in assigned areas.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. (Must be able to read, write and speak fluent English and Sesotho).

• Proficiency in project management, training facilitation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of health systems and public health principles.

Travel Requirements:

• Less than 10%

This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

The position will be based in FHI 360 Lesotho Office, Maseru, Lesotho. Preference is for Lesotho nationals.

This job posting summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

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