Amref Health Africa, a leading international health development organization, is currently seeking qualified individuals to join their dynamic team as Project Assistants. The organization is known for its commitment to improving the health and well-being of vulnerable communities in Africa, with a particular focus on providing quality healthcare services and training for health workers. Amref Health Africa’s mission is driven by the belief that all people, regardless of their background or location, should have access to good healthcare, and the organization strives to meet this goal by working closely with communities, governments, and other partners. Through its programs, Amref focuses on a wide range of health issues, including immunization, maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), ensuring that health programs are delivered efficiently and sustainably.
Founded in 1957, Amref Health Africa has established itself as one of the largest health development organizations on the continent, with a broad operational presence spanning across several countries in Africa. Through innovative health interventions, Amref has played a vital role in strengthening health systems, building the capacity of healthcare workers, and promoting equitable access to health services. The organization employs an integrated approach to health, combining community engagement, advocacy, policy influence, and the empowerment of local healthcare systems. Amref’s work is guided by the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation, as it seeks to address the most pressing health challenges in the African region. Their programs are grounded in a deep understanding of the local contexts, and they rely heavily on collaboration with government bodies, donors, and other stakeholders.
As part of its ongoing efforts to expand and enhance its programs, Amref Health Africa is currently recruiting for the position of Project Assistant in two locations: Dimeka and Jinka. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about public health and wish to contribute to making a real impact in their communities. The Project Assistant will play a key role in ensuring the effective implementation of Amref’s health projects, particularly in the area of immunization. The ideal candidates will be proactive, organized, and able to work collaboratively with a wide range of partners and stakeholders, including health facilities, government bodies, and local communities.
Role and Responsibilities of Project Assistants
As a Project Assistant at Amref Health Africa, the selected candidate will be responsible for a variety of key tasks aimed at supporting the successful implementation of health projects in the region. One of the primary responsibilities will be the preparation of periodic activity and budget plans, which will be submitted to the program officer in the required format. This includes developing detailed implementation work plans that align with the project’s objectives and ensuring that these plans are regularly reviewed and updated. The Project Assistant will also be responsible for preparing and submitting reports on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis, keeping the program officer and other stakeholders informed about progress and challenges.
In addition to planning and reporting, the Project Assistant will play an active role in implementing the project activities. This will involve working closely with other project staff and partners, including health facilities and sector offices, to ensure the successful delivery of the project’s goals. The Project Assistant will use available resources, such as guidelines and manuals, to ensure the quality of implementation and will be expected to assist with the procurement planning for the project, including raising purchase requisitions when necessary. Furthermore, the Project Assistant will support the coordination of workshops, trainings, and post-training follow-ups, ensuring that these events are well-organized and contribute to the strengthening of the health system.
Another important aspect of the role will be facilitating technical and supportive supervision in the project intervention areas. This will involve working closely with government and other stakeholders to ensure that the project remains on track and that any challenges or issues are promptly addressed. The Project Assistant will also be involved in monitoring and evaluating the project’s progress and will support efforts to document best practices, lessons learned, and success stories that can be shared with the broader community. This is a highly collaborative role that requires excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
Required Skills and Experience
To be eligible for the position of Project Assistant, candidates must possess a minimum of three years of work experience in the field of immunization and public health, with at least two years of experience specifically in routine immunization and surveillance. Candidates should have a strong understanding of national immunization initiatives, such as big-catch-up campaigns, and be able to conduct data analysis and present findings to stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should have a proven ability to work effectively within a zonal or woreda context and be familiar with the local healthcare system and its challenges.
Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as the Project Assistant will be required to work with various stakeholders at different levels, from government officials to community members. The ability to lead teams and manage multiple activities is crucial, as is the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Fluency in both English and Amharic is required, and knowledge of the local zonal language is an added advantage. The Project Assistant must also be willing to travel extensively, with up to 80% of the time spent in the field, visiting woredas, health centers, and health posts to provide on-the-ground support and ensure the successful implementation of the project.
Candidates must hold at least a BSc in Public Health, Health Science, or a related field. A diploma in health science is optional but would be considered an advantage. Experience with data management tools such as DHIS2 and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint will also be beneficial for applicants.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications and experience requirements are encouraged to apply for the position by visiting Amref Health Africa’s official website and submitting their application. The deadline for submitting applications is December 3, 2024. To apply and learn more about the position, visit Amref Health Africa’s Job Listing.
This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals passionate about public health and making a tangible impact in the field of immunization and healthcare delivery. Amref Health Africa offers a collaborative and dynamic work environment, where the selected candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to critical health initiatives and develop professionally in the process. Apply today and join Amref in its mission to improve health outcomes across Africa.