Volunteer Opportunity: Capacity Development and Policy Support Officer.

Organization Overview

Rural African Matters (RAM) is a development-focused organization committed to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting inclusive policy engagement, and advancing sustainable rural development across Africa. Our work centers on empowering communities, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and fostering collaborative development partnerships.

Position Summary

Rural African Matters is recruiting three Volunteer Capacity Development and Policy Support Officers at different operational levels:

  • 1 International Volunteer (Remote)
  • 1 National Volunteer
  • 1 County-Level Volunteer (Trans Nzoia County)

These roles offer an opportunity to contribute to meaningful development work while gaining practical experience in capacity strengthening, policy analysis, stakeholder coordination, and program implementation.

Impact of the Role

Volunteers will directly contribute to:

  • Strengthening institutional and community capacity
  • Supporting evidence-informed policy dialogue
  • Enhancing program effectiveness through research and documentation
  • Promoting inclusive rural development initiatives

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities will vary slightly by level but may include:

  • Conducting research and policy analysis
  • Drafting policy briefs, reports, and concept notes
  • Supporting stakeholder coordination and engagement
  • Assisting in capacity-building initiatives and training activities
  • Supporting monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes
  • Representing RAM in relevant forums (as applicable)

Position-Specific Requirements

International Volunteer (Remote)

  • Degree in Public Policy, International Development, Governance, Social Sciences, or related field
  • Strong research and analytical writing skills
  • Experience in international or cross-cultural contexts is an asset
  • Ability to work effectively in virtual environments

National Volunteer

  • Degree (or postgraduate student) in Development Studies, Public Administration, Governance, Social Sciences, or related field
  • Understanding of national development frameworks
  • Strong coordination and communication skills

County-Level Volunteer (Trans Nzoia County)

  • Must be a resident of Trans Nzoia County
  • Diploma or Degree in Community Development, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or related discipline
  • Strong community engagement and interpersonal skills

Core Competencies

  • Professional integrity and accountability
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Ability to work independently and within a team
  • Commitment to inclusive and sustainable rural development

Terms

This is a volunteer opportunity designed to provide professional development, exposure to policy and capacity-building processes, and meaningful contribution to rural transformation initiatives. Specific terms of engagement will be communicated to selected candidates.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Idealist platform.

Interested candidates should submit:

  • A cover letter clearly indicating the position level applied for (International, National, or County)
  • An updated Curriculum Vitae

Only applications submitted via Idealist will be reviewed.

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