National Project Coordinator

Organizational Context

Southern Africa, particularly Zimbabwe and Mozambique, faces frequent natural disasters like tropical cyclones, droughts, and floods. The 'Be Resilient BuPuSa' project aims to reduce community and institutional vulnerability to extreme weather events in the BuPuSa transboundary river basins. This initiative builds upon a previous flood early warning system project and seeks to enhance resilience, determine future climate change scenarios, and formulate adaptation strategies, especially in the water sector.

Job Purpose

The National Project Coordinator will support the day-to-day implementation of the 'Building community resilience to climate-induced multi-hazards in the BuPuSa Transboundary River Basins' project. Working under the UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa (ROSA), the incumbent will be responsible for overall coordination, technical implementation, and monitoring. This role involves leading project activities across the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save river basins, developing work plans, supporting procurement, and ensuring alignment with project objectives and donor requirements. The coordinator will also engage with various stakeholders, organize project events, and contribute to communication and knowledge management efforts.

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate daily project activities across the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save transboundary river basins in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Develop annual and quarterly work plans, and assist with procurement and contracting processes, including drafting Terms of Reference and technical specifications. Provide technical and logistical support for planned activities. Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes, ensuring alignment with the project results framework and donor requirements. Act as the primary focal point for engagement with partners, government institutions, civil society organizations, community-based organizations, UN agencies, and other stakeholders. Organize project-related events such as stakeholder meetings, training workshops, and conferences. Undertake field missions to support implementation, track progress, and advise on adjustments. Collaborate with communication officers to develop and maintain project communication platforms, including websites and data repositories, to enhance visibility and knowledge management. Support the UNESCO Natural Sciences sector in ROSA, contributing to its activities, identifying innovative approaches, and participating in resource mobilization.

Work Experience

Minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating programs in water resources, environmental sciences, climate change, or natural sciences. Experience with hydrological modeling techniques, disaster risk prevention, and implementing early warning systems is required. Experience within UNESCO or UN agencies and with governments is desired.

Skills

Extensive technical writing skills. Proficiency in computer applications, including GIS and Remote Sensing. Knowledge of web development and programming languages. Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work under pressure. Excellent interpersonal, strategic, analytical, and communication skills. Familiarity with web skills and social media is also beneficial.

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