TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) FOR PROGRAM OFFICER

Position: Program Officer

Location: Garowe, Somalia

Reporting to: Regional Program Coordinator

Contract Duration:1 year, with the possibility of extension based on donor funding (including a 3-month probationary period)

Application Deadline: October 29th 2024

1. Background

Shaqodoon Organization, a member of the SomRep consortium, is committed to enhancing resilience and supporting Somalia's most vulnerable communities. As part of this commitment, Shaqodoon is implementing the Inclusive Livelihoods for Vulnerable Pastoral Groups project under the SomRep 3 program. The program seeks to strengthen the resilience of chronically vulnerable pastoral, agro-pastoral, and peri-urban populations in the target locations of the project, particularly those facing climate-induced shocks and associated risks. Through reducing communities’ reliance on humanitarian assistance, the program promotes long-term development and stability.

The program focuses on key areas including digital skills development, entrepreneurship, access to finance, community crowdfunding, technical vocational training, core life skills, and job placement through internships. Targeting the districts of Eyl, Bosaso, Badhan, Lasanod, and Garowe, the program integrates collaborative efforts with local administrations, financial institutions, and SomRep consortium members such as CARE, ADRA, and ACF. By partnering closely with field officers and local entities, Shaqodoon ensures that program activities align with the needs of the communities, fostering sustainable empowerment and capacity building.

2. Purpose of the Position

The Program Officer will be responsible for implementing the Inclusive Livelihoods for Vulnerable Pastoral Groups project activities in the target districts. This role includes coordinating training and placement services, facilitating collaborations with local stakeholders, and supporting beneficiaries through direct engagement and capacity building. The position requires regular interaction with community members, implementing partners and local authorities, with a goal of empowering participants through digital skills, entrepreneurship, and technical training, co-financing local intiative.

3. Duties and Responsibilities

• Execute Inclusive Livelihoods for Vulnerable Pastoral Groups program activities as per the work plan, focusing on digital skills training, core life skills, entrepreneurship and access to finance, community crowdfunding, technical vocational skills, life skills, and internship placement.

• Organize training sessions, workshops, and other capacity-building activities for targeted groups, including youth and community members.

• Coordinate closely with local administrations, government bodies, and financial institutions to ensure program alignment with community needs and resources.

• Collaborate with field officers from SomRep consortium partners, including CARE, ADRA, and ACF, to ensure streamlined activities and resource sharing.

• Implement and monitor a robust community feedback mechanism, ensuring community voices guide program adjustments and improvements.

• Collect and analyze community feedback to adapt programming as necessary.

• Provide weekly updates, monthly progress reports, and quarterly summaries to the Regional Program Coordinator, highlighting achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

• Collect relevant data, conduct field visits, and ensure that all activities meet program quality standards and timelines.

• Document program activities, success stories, and impact case studies to support knowledge sharing and learning.

• Regularly update program files and maintain thorough records for monitoring and evaluation purposes.

4. Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in development studies, Project Management, Business, Social Sciences, or a related field.

• At least 3 years of experience in a program implementation role, preferably in skills training, entrepreneurship, or vocational training, community engagement

• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, FIs, and community members.

• Experience working in consortium programs or multi-partner settings is highly preferred.

5. Skills and Competencies

• Strong project management and organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.

• Proficiency in report writing and documentation, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Familiarity with skills development training and community-based program approaches.

• Knowledge of the local context in the target area of the project and ability to engage effectively with local authorities and community members.

• Competency in Somali and English.

6. Reporting and Supervision

• The Program Officer will supervise the regional program team in the target area of the project and will be reporting directly to the Regional Program Coordinator, providing weekly updates, monthly reports, and comprehensive quarterly reports that detail progress, challenges, and program impacts.

How to apply

7. Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their CV, cover letter, and any other relevant documentation to jobs@shaqodoon.org by October 29th 2024.