Spécialiste en Communication sur les Risques et Engagement Communautaire (CREC)

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UN's specialized agency for public health, operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for decades. It collaborates closely with the Ministry of Public Health to enhance population health and strengthen the national health system. Within its emergency preparedness and response program, WHO supports the country's epidemic response efforts, recognizing Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCE) as a critical component.

Job Purpose

This role supports WHO's emergency preparedness and response program in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCE) during epidemics and public health emergencies. The specialist will provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Health and other partners to implement effective RCE activities. The objective is to strengthen national capacity, facilitate coordinated responses, and ensure timely and accurate information dissemination to the public, thereby mitigating the impact of health crises and fostering community trust and participation in public health initiatives.

Responsibilities

Under WHO supervision, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCE) Specialist will provide technical support to the Ministry of Health and partners for effective RCE during epidemics and public health emergencies. Key responsibilities include: supporting the coordination of RCE interventions and stakeholders; advocating for political and community engagement in epidemic management; developing action plans, tools, and adapting key messages and IEC materials to local contexts. The role also involves strengthening local capacities in RCE, implementing communication activities using appropriate strategies, and enhancing monitoring and evaluation of RCE interventions. Additionally, the specialist will document and disseminate best practices, analyze risk factors and social determinants of health, manage rumors and infodemics, and foster cross-sectoral collaboration with various incident management pillars, civil society, and health actors.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of professional experience in risk communication, health promotion, emergency management, or a related field is required. Experience in epidemic preparedness or response is highly desirable. Experience in developing RCE strategies, managing infodemics, and community mobilization is advantageous.

Skills

Essential skills include excellent written and oral communication, the ability to work effectively in multicultural environments, and establishing constructive partnerships. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving capabilities are needed, along with the ability to work under pressure. Teamwork and results-orientation are important. Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and data collection/analysis tools is required. Graphic design software proficiency is a plus. Expertise areas include public health, immunization, communication, advocacy, and public information.

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