The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), established in 2010, is a regional non-profit organization dedicated to closing the gap between research, policy, and practical development efforts across Africa. Our core mission is to foster sustainable development by leveraging evidence and advocacy. We aim to strengthen political commitment and resource allocation, inform the design and implementation of impactful interventions, and enhance governance and accountability structures for addressing Africa's development challenges. Learn more about AFIDEP at www.afidep.org.
AFIDEP is seeking a Communications and Policy Engagement Manager to lead its communications and policy engagement department. This pivotal role involves designing and implementing an innovative strategy for communication and policy influence, aimed at elevating AFIDEP’s standing as a premier regional development policy institute and reinforcing the use of research evidence in Africa’s development processes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Communications, Visibility, and Profiling
- Design and oversee the execution of AFIDEP’s overarching communications and policy-influencing strategy.
- Supervise the development of a distinct AFIDEP brand, positioning it as a leading policy institute in promoting and enabling evidence uptake across all development sectors.
- Spearhead the writing and publication of key institutional reports, including the annual report, newsletters, website content, social media updates, and the African Development Perspectives.
- Provide support for evidence synthesis, packaging, and its application in six critical areas: population dynamics and the demographic dividend; health and wellbeing; transformative education and skills development; environment and climate change; governance and accountability; and economic wellbeing.
- Identify and cultivate relationships with essential media outlets to stimulate increased integration of evidence into public policy discussions.
- Actively disseminate research evidence and encourage robust critical debate on development issues, ensuring discussions are evidence-based.
Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation
- Cultivate and sustain collaborative partnerships with funding organizations, governmental bodies, academic institutions, research entities, implementing agencies, and funders at national, regional, and global levels.
- Build meaningful relationships with potential end-users of research evidence and other institutions dedicated to generating and promoting its use.
- Contribute to AFIDEP’s fundraising initiatives through the development of compelling concepts and proposals.
Capacity Strengthening
- Support both internal and external capacity-strengthening endeavors, aimed at enhancing the communication and utilization of research evidence in development decision-making processes.
REQUIREMENTS
- A Master’s degree in communications, media, international relations, or a related discipline.
- At least 10 years of experience in science and development communications within the development sector or an associated field, including a minimum of three years at an international level.
- Exceptional writing and technical editing capabilities, particularly for policy-oriented publications and various media products.
- Outstanding presentation and public speaking proficiency.
- Demonstrated technical skills in publications design, website management, and social media management.
- Ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of audiences and constituencies, representing the organization with authority and credibility.
- Profound understanding of public policymaking and legislative processes, along with the crucial role of research in these contexts.
- Proven expertise in translating research and evidence into impactful advocacy strategies that have successfully influenced policy change at national or international levels.
- Demonstrated success in developing and executing effective country, regional, or international policy engagement and influencing strategies.
- A comprehensive understanding of African socio-political contexts and global developments, and how these factors shape decision-making in the areas of health, population, and development.
- Competency in facilitating national and international advocacy activities.
To apply:
To apply, submit a motivation letter clearly outlining your suitability for this role. Ensure the email subject line includes the position title, “Communications and Policy Engagement Manager”. Attach a detailed CV, including contact information for three relevant referees. Send your application to recruitment@afidep.org by 17 April 2026. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.