Community Contact Tracers - Ebola Virus Disease

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN Migration Agency, works to ensure orderly and humane migration. Established in 1951, IOM assists in addressing migration challenges, promotes international cooperation, and provides humanitarian aid. In Uganda, IOM has operated since 1984, focusing on empowering communities to prevent and respond to health threats, advocating for migrant inclusion, and reducing stigma. The Migration Health Division in Uganda is actively involved in Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) response.

Job Purpose

This role supports IOM Uganda's efforts to manage Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) at vulnerable points of entry and border communities, particularly those bordering the DRC. The Community Contact Tracers will be instrumental in expanding Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) and community surveillance activities. This involves scaling up Community Based Disease Surveillance (CBDS) training, delivering targeted risk communication campaigns, strengthening referral pathways between communities and health facilities, and integrating protection and accountability mechanisms into response efforts. The aim is to enhance local capacities for EVD detection, reporting, and management, ensuring safe and ethical engagement.

Responsibilities

Community Contact Tracers will conduct targeted risk communication activities, including household visits, community dialogues, and outreach at markets and transit points. They will support radio messaging to raise awareness about EVD signs, prevention methods, and the importance of safe care-seeking, while also combating stigma. A key duty is disseminating standardized Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, ensuring that messages are effectively adapted to local languages and cultural contexts to maximize understanding and impact within the target communities. This role is crucial for building community resilience and facilitating timely response to potential EVD outbreaks.

Work Experience

No prior experience is required. However, one year of relevant professional work experience at the national level in emergency response, coordination, or humanitarian health assistance is desirable. Experience with UN or international development organizations is an asset. Proficiency in MS Office and basic computer literacy is expected. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Kisoro, Kasese, Nebbi, Arua, or Bundibugyo is also desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organizing, professionalism, and self-management. Expertise in crisis and emergency response, community development, and social work is beneficial. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams are essential for effective communication and engagement.

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