Small Grants Programme Coordinator
Organizational Context
UNDP Eswatini is implementing its Country Programme 2026-2030, focusing on good governance and sustainable economic development. Within this, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP) will be executed. The SGP, implemented by UNDP on behalf of GEF, channels grants to community-based organizations for environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods. This role coordinates the SGP in Eswatini as the programme transitions to full UNDP oversight.
Job Purpose
The Small Grants Programme (SGP) National Coordinator will oversee the implementation of the GEF SGP in Eswatini, contributing to the UNDP Eswatini Country Programme 2026-2030. This role supports sustainable and resilient economic development by channeling grants to non-governmental and community-based organizations for environmental initiatives. The coordinator will also dedicate approximately 50% of their time to supporting other country office locally-led adaptation and resilience initiatives, focusing on grant pipeline development, appraisal, capacity strengthening, disbursement, monitoring, and reporting. The purpose is to ensure effective grant management, foster community-based environmental action, and achieve global environmental benefits while promoting sustainable livelihoods and gender equality.
Responsibilities
Oversee the implementation of the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Eswatini, reporting to the Deputy Resident Representative and SGP Regional Programme Specialist. Manage the SGP Country Programme team, including work planning, budgeting, and performance assessment. Develop and implement the Country Programme Strategy, ensuring integration of gender analysis and targets. Manage SGP grant allocations and country operating budget, maintaining financial integrity and adherence to UNDP rules. Oversee project development, monitoring, and evaluation, providing technical and operational support to grantees. Organize stakeholder workshops and capacity development sessions, promoting gender-responsive grantmaking. Foster linkages between SGP and other GEF projects. Support the implementation of locally-led adaptation and resilience initiatives (50% effort), including grant pipeline coordination, proposal appraisal, and grantee capacity strengthening. Ensure gender mainstreaming across all activities and promote knowledge management and communication of best practices. Coordinate administrative tasks, including procurement and travel, adhering to SGP SOPs.
Work Experience
A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in managing environment/natural resource management projects at the national or local level is required (with a Master's degree). Experience with computer software, web-based management systems, and project/programme management, particularly within UN/UNDP programmes, is highly desirable. Experience with GEF-SGP thematic areas, grant-making components, and integrating gender equality is also advantageous.
Skills
Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, Enable Diversity and Inclusion, Strategic Thinking, Systems Thinking, Results-based Management, Communication, Project Management, Strategic Engagement, Nature (Local Action).