Social Protection Officer- (Inclusion)
Organizational Context
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a global agency dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children. In Kenya, the Social Policy programme section focuses on child rights, poverty reduction, and strengthening social protection systems. This includes analysis of child poverty, public finance for children, and generating evidence for policy. A key priority is enhancing disability inclusion in social protection, aligning with UNICEF's global strategy to support children with disabilities.
Job Purpose
The Social Protection Officer will support UNICEF Kenya's Social Policy section in advancing disability inclusion within social protection systems. The role involves contributing to reforms for children with disabilities and their caregivers, enhancing disability inclusion in Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), and improving early identification, assessment, and referral processes. The officer will also assist with related projects, such as developing a county-level model for identifying and supporting children with disabilities, including in emergencies. This position offers opportunities for learning and policy dialogue, aiming to embed sustainable initiatives for long-term impact.
Responsibilities
The Social Protection Officer will gather and communicate lessons learned from the Unpaid Care pilot, supporting the development of a government roadmap for a Care and Support System. This includes analyzing lessons from the Nairobi County model and assisting in disseminating findings to scale the system nationally. The role also involves providing secretariat support for advancing Amman-Berlin Declaration Targets, coordinating engagements with GIZ and other UN agencies, and ensuring effective documentation. Additionally, the officer will support programme activities focused on strengthening systems for identifying, assessing, and providing assistive technology to children with disabilities, and assist in implementing financing initiatives for this work.
Work Experience
Requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in disability inclusion, social protection, social care, or public policy. Experience supporting inclusive social protection policy and programming, particularly for children with disabilities and their caregivers, is essential. Knowledge of social care, caregiver support models, and cash transfer programs is beneficial. Experience working with government institutions, UN agencies, or civil society is highly desirable.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, creativity, judgment, planning, professionalism, and self-management. Expertise areas include community development, project management, programme development, and strategy. A strong understanding of disability rights, inclusive social protection systems, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is crucial.