Associate Nutrition Officer

Organizational Context

UNICEF's mission is to promote the rights of every child globally, focusing on equity for the most disadvantaged. In Togo, the 2023-2026 Country Programme aims to ensure children and adolescents realize their rights to survival and development. The program seeks equitable access to high-quality health, nutrition, and WASH services, especially in development and humanitarian contexts. Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in Togo, exacerbated by economic factors and regional crises, necessitating innovative community-level interventions.

Job Purpose

This role supports UNICEF Togo's Child Survival component by assisting the Nutrition Unit in implementing activities and achieving objectives related to improving nutrition services for children and mothers. The assignment focuses on reaching vulnerable populations, particularly in the Savanes, Kara, and Maritime regions, with essential nutrition services. The volunteer will contribute to innovative approaches, support the implementation of Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) programs, and assist the Ministry of Health in initiatives like the Baby-Friendly Hospitals Initiative, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and the realization of children's rights in Togo.

Responsibilities

The Associate Nutrition Officer will provide technical, operational, and administrative support for the UNICEF Nutrition component in Togo. Key duties include contributing to the design and implementation of innovative approaches to deliver essential nutrition services to children and mothers in specific regions. The role involves assisting in the monitoring of Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) mother support groups and providing technical support to the Ministry of Health for initiatives such as the Baby-Friendly Hospitals Initiative. Furthermore, the volunteer will participate in program monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, including financial monitoring and contributing to donor reports. Documenting achievements, conducting field visits, and providing technical support to government partners are also integral parts of the role, alongside carrying out any other tasks necessary for program objectives.

Work Experience

While no prior professional experience is strictly required, demonstrated interest or experience in nutrition programming, particularly community nutrition or infant and young child feeding support, is beneficial. Familiarity with IYCF support groups, analytical, organizational, and writing skills are important. Experience working in a developing country is desirable, and previous experience with UN agencies like UNICEF is considered an asset.

Skills

Core competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, commitment, motivation, ethics, integrity, judgment, decision-making, knowledge sharing, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and teamwork. Technical expertise in natural resources management, general and specialized medicine, disability, and social inclusion aspects is also relevant.

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