Civic Engagement Support Facility, Somalia (based in Nairobi)
Diakonia is currently seeking a dynamic and dedicated team for the Civic Engagement Support Facility for Somalia, including Somaliland.
The aim of the Facility is to expand the civic space for women, youth and marginalised groups in Somalia including Somaliland and strengthen citizen engagement on rights and accountability with the state at federal, member-state and local level. This initiative is funded under the Denmark Somalia Bilateral Development Program.
The Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Specialist will help devise the Facility’s approach to MEAL, lead the work of setting up the MEAL system, produce baseline data and quality assure the data coming from the MEAL system. The MEAL specialist will oversee and guide the work of the MEAL staff at the Facility’s offices in Mogadishu and Hargeisa.
The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of the socio-political landscape of Somalia/Somaliland, proven experience in civil society development, and a commitment to fostering inclusive development.
The successful candidate will align with Diakonia’s values, and our Human Rights based programmatic approach to utilize their extensive experience of working in complex challenging environments to provide operational and strategic leadership of the Facility.
The position is subject to successful tendering. If successful, the expected starting date is March 2025. This is a full-time position for 1 year with possible extension and is based in Nairobi, Kenya with expected frequent travel to Somalia, including Somaliland.
MEAL Specialist Role and Responsibilities
As the MEAL Specialist for the Civic Engagement Support Facility, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness and impact of our initiatives in Somalia, including Somaliland. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the MEAL system, in collaboration with the Diakonia Global MEAL Advisor and the Human Rights and Civil Society Expert. Your work will ensure that the Facility’s projects are effectively monitored, improvements are continuously integrated, and outcomes are aligned with strategic objectives.
Reporting directly to the Civil Society Facility Manager, your responsibilities include:
- System Development and Implementation
Lead the establishment and oversight of the MEAL system, including the creation of guidelines, manuals, and training programs for Facility staff. Develop and maintain tools and systems essential for gathering and analyzing MEAL data, ensuring they are in line with global best practices.
- Data Management and Quality Assurance
Manage the collection, analysis, and storage of quantitative and qualitative data. Regularly review and adapt the MEAL system to enhance its effectiveness and ensure the highest quality of data is maintained. Produce baseline data and track the progress of Facility activities to assess adherence to planned outcomes.
- Learning and Strategic Insights
Facilitate organizational learning and knowledge sharing by developing platforms and processes for disseminating findings and best practices. Draft learning briefs and conduct sense-making exercises to inform strategic decision-making and program adjustments.
- Collaboration and Reporting
Work closely with the Chief Finance Officer to integrate MEAL data with financial reports to analyze cost-effectiveness and value for money. Prepare and submit regular progress reports to the Executive Committee, including a comprehensive final results report summarizing the achievements and lessons learned throughout the project lifecycle.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in social sciences, development studies, or economics with high-level experience or background in M&E.
- At least 7 years of post-degree work experience, of which at least 5 as an M&E/MEL/MEAL/RBM specialist in developing countries.
- Experience working on MEAL with civil society organizations and in conflict-affected settings, with ability to work collaboratively and as coach where needed.
- Have experience in remote monitoring.
- At least 3 years of work experience in Somalia or the Horn of Africa.
- English language proficiency at level C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages scale.
- Ability to lead and prioritize independently while being a good team player.
- Thematic expertise within gender justice and working with civil society is highly desirable.
About Diakonia:
Diakonia is a Swedish non-profit organization for international development cooperation and humanitarian assistance. We support and work with around 350 local civil society organisations and movements in 25 countries across the globe. Our vision is a just, equal and sustainable world where all people live in dignity, free from poverty. Our goal is to change unfair political, economic, social, and cultural structures that generate poverty, oppression, and violence. We apply a human rights-based approach and feminist principles throughout our work and adapt our programmes as the context changes.
Should you be interested, your application needs to include a cover letter indicating why you want to join Diakonia, a detailed CV highlighting relevant experience, details of current and expected salary, daytime phone contact, email address, and the names of three professional referees by close of business 12th January 2025. Applications should be sent via the link.
Diakonia encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply
- The position is subject to successful tendering
- Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
