Result of Service
To support the effective implementation of the RLO Africa work programme by strengthening regional coordination, supporting engagement with African Parties and partners, enhancing policy analysis and communication, and contributing to the implementation of the UNCCD in Africa.
Work Location
In Person, Rabat Office.
Expected duration
01 October 2026 to 30 Sept.ember 2027.
Duties and Responsibilities
Background note: Desertification, along with climate change and the loss of biodiversity were identified as the greatest challenges to sustainable development during the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. Established in 1994, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the sole legally binding international agreement linking environment and development to sustainable land management. The Convention seeks to support countries to address Desertification, Land Degradation, and Drought (DLDD).
(www.unccd.int) The Regional Liaison Office for Africa (RLO Africa), under the Global Policy Advocacy and Regional Cooperation (GPARC) unit, supports African Parties in the implementation of the Convention and facilitates regional coordination in the intergovernmental process. To support the implementation of its programme of work, RLO Africa requires the services of a consultant to provide technical, analytical, coordination and communication support across its regional portfolio.
Duties & Responsibilities: Under direct supervision of the Head of RLO Africa, and in close coordination with relevant units of the UNCCD Secretariat, the Consultant will:
Support daily the planning, implementation and follow-up of the RLO Africa 2026-2027 annual workplan and regional activities.
Draft briefing notes, concept notes, meeting reports, mission reports, talking points and other technical documents.
Monitor regional developments relevant to the implementation of the UNCCD and prepare concise analytical updates.
Liaise with National Focal Points (NFPs), Science and Technology Correspondents (STCs), regional organizations and partners to support the implementation of regional activities.
Support regional meetings, webinars and workshops, including preparing agendas, participant lists, meeting documentation and follow-up actions.
Assist in developing partnerships and preparing project concepts and funding proposals for regional activities.
Maintain activity trackers, contact databases and monitoring tools, and provide regular progress updates.
Carry out any other tasks assigned by the Head of RLO Africa in support of the Office's programme of work.
Qualifications/special skills
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental policy, international relations, international law, development studies or related field is required.
Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in international environmental policy, multilateral negotiations, sustainable development or related areas is required.
Experience supporting COP or intergovernmental negotiation processes is highly desirable.
Demonstrated experience collaborating with Regional Liaison Officers (RLOs) and in-depth knowledge of the UNCCD processes is desirable.
Languages
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of an additional official UN language is an advantage.
Additional Information
Additional Information: Only individuals who can act as independent, individual economical operators are qualified to apply. Individuals who can provide their services only on account of an institution or enterprise are not eligible under this procedure. Individuals engaged under a consultancy or individual contract will not be considered “staff members” under the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations Secretariat and will not be entitled to benefits provided therein (such as leave entitlements and medical insurance coverage).
Their conditions of service will be governed by their contract and the General Conditions of Contracts for the Services of Consultants and Individual Contractors. Consultant and individual contractor is responsible for determining tax liabilities and for the payment of any taxes and/or duties, in accordance with local or other applicable laws.