Uganda: Livestock Program Officer- Based in Kotido (Open to Uganda Nationals)

PROGRAM/DEPARTMENT SUMMARY:

Mercy Corps has been operating in Uganda since 2006 and works to catalyze change makers within the Ugandan private sector, civil society and government to create economically dynamic, healthy and secure communities. Our works focus on building resilience and enable economic growth, improve opportunities to attain better health and nutrition, and improved governance and conflict management. We implement programs in the northern districts of Pader, Kitgum, Agago, Lamwo, Kaabong, Abim and Kotido with funding from USAID, USDA, Walmart Foundation, SDC, DFID as well as other private donations.

We were recently awarded funding for a twelve-month livelihoods focused pilot program working in the Karamoja region. The pilot is an extension of the Mercy Corps’ Girls Improving Resilience with Livestock (GIRL) program that, aims to empower pastoralist girls in the Karamoja region to improve their livelihoods and personal agency, as well as increase the food security and adaptive capacity of their households and the resilience of their communities. Mercy Corps is looking for a qualified Ugandan to fill the position of Livestock Program Officer for the GIRL program.

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Livestock Program Officer will lead the implementation of a twelve month supplemental feed block pilot program in Northern Karamoja. Working alongside the GIRL program, the Livestock Program Officer will work with groups of girls to launch microenterprises that produce and sell supplemental feed blocks. The Livestock Program Officer will work closely with the GIRL M&E Officer, Program Officers and Program Researcher to ensure lessons learned are captured and model is well documented.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Identify and recruit girls’ groups where supplemental feed blocks (Urea-molasses blocks – UMB Blocks) microenterprises could increase livelihood security and bring about long-term effects.

2. Assist GIRL team in the distribution of livestock/poultry in communities aligned with Mercy Corps facilitation approach

3. Advise the GIRL Program Coordinator and regional Program Managers on the types of livestock and poultry that adapt better to the environment of Karamoja, and which is more likely to resist diseases, droughts and harsh climate conditions.

4. Create curriculum on the creation of supplemental feed blocks

5. Conduct trainings and technical assistance on the production, sales and usage of supplemental feed blocks targeting girl microenterprises

6. Arrange community meetings, sensitization events and farmer field days for community members to learn about supplemental feed blocks

7. Mobilize communities and lead the creation of demonstration plots

8. Lead market facilitation efforts across livestock value chains

9. Coordinate distribution of vouchers for free feed blocks, spurring demand for feed blocks among community members

10. Provide regular reports and updates to the Program Coordinator and Program Managers

11. Prepare accurate and timely monitoring and field reports and other project documentation as required

12. Maintain proper project/program files.

13. Final report that includes pilot’s success, failures and well-documented model to scale moving forward

14. Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its humanitarian mission.

15. Perform any other duties as assigned by his/her supervisor or representatives

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience working with NGOs/CBO’s in livestock or veterinary services
• Degree in Economic Development, Community Development, or related field or diploma with over 7 years experience;
• Experience working in livestock market development in pastoral communities
• Commitment to working with youth and vulnerable groups in need, regardless of race, tribe, religion or gender;
• Understanding of working with local partners;
• Good problem solving, written and oral communication skills;
• Strong written and spoken English
• Local language skills required (Karamojong)
• Ability to work without constant supervision and as part of a mixed team;
• Good knowledge of MS Office software

SUCCESS FACTORS:

The ideal candidate will have the ability and curiosity to work comfortably and effectively in the cultural, relatively poor infrastructure of Karamoja sub region. S/he will be an excellent communicator, have a strong sense of humor, multi-tasker, and able to work difficult and often stressful environments

Applications: Submit your E-mailed application including a cover letter clearly stating your salary requirements, CV (with 3 referees), and copies of academic qualifications/certificates through the Human Resource Manager tomcjobs@ug.mercycorps.org

Deadline for Submission: Close of business on February 5, 2016Only short-listed candidates will be contacted by Mercy Corps. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer; female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.