Principal Political Affairs Officer (PAPS) at the African Union (AU)

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organization of African Unity (OAU, 1963-1999). We are an Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Principal Political Affairs Officer (PAPS)

Requisition ID: 1910
Location: Mogadishu, Somalia
Contract Type: Short-Term
Reports to: Head, Political Affairs 
Directorate/Department/Organ: PAPS
Division: ATMIS
Number of Direct Reports: 2
Number of Indirect Reports: As delegated
Job Grade: P4

Purpose of Job

• Prepare reports and analyze all political aspects of the peace process and report on related developments and prospects. In close liaison and under supervision of the Head of Political Unit, develop political, conflict prevention and peacemaking initiatives and facilitate the work of the Mission in political affairs as directed, preparation of drafts, briefs, meetings, and reports.

Main Functions

• Conduct political analysis and reporting on developments in Somalia and the sub-region, with specific focus on the progress of the peacekeeping operation;
• Assist the Head of the Political Affairs on policy and strategy matters and assist in developing and supervising work programs and in fostering partnerships regarding political issues.

Specific Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Political Affairs to organize the preparation and implementation of plans of action, programs, and activities of the political department within the Mission.
• Prepare and draft talking points, speeches, memos and briefing notes for meetings and other correspondences for the Head of Mission.
• Support the political activities to the Government of Somalia, Regional Governments and other partners involved in the national reconciliation within Somalia.
• Provide support the electoral processes and the reviews of the constitution of Somalia.
• Ensure the proper collection and analysis of data and information on political issues.
• Perform other duties as may be directed by the immediate supervisors.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

• Master's Degree in Political Science, International Relations, International Law or any related discipline, with ten (10) years of experience in a related field with Government, NGO, think tank, or similar multi-lateral, regional or international institution national, continental or international level of which six (6) years at managerial level and three (3) years at supervisory Level.

OR

• Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, International Relations, International Law or any related discipline, with twelve (12) years of experience in a related field with Government, NGO, think tank, or similar multi-lateral, regional or international institution national, continental or international level of which six (6) years at managerial level and three (3) years at supervisory Level.
• A higher qualification and experience in Peacekeeping will be and added advantage.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to identify strategic issues, opportunities, and risks.
• Excellent Computer skills and well versed in the use of the Internet, Desktop publishing packages, Power Point, Excel and Word.
• Ability to work closely with governments, NGOs and multi-lateral institutions in complex political affairs, peace and security undertakings.
• Peacekeeping experience highly desirable
• Excellent Computer skills and well versed in the use of the Internet, Power Point, Excel and Word.
• Excellent knowledge of conflict management, international diplomacy, negotiation and mediation approaches, tools, methodologies, and programs
• Excellent writing, negotiating, analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a multicultural setting.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to work in a hardship context and highly pressurized and sometimes hazardous environment.

Leadership Competencies:

• Strategic Perspective
• Managing Risk

Core Competencies:

• Foster Accountability Culture
• Communicating with impact

Functional Competencies:

• Drive for Results
• Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Job Knowledge and information sharing

Tenure of Appointment

• The Appointment will be made on a fixed term contract for a period of one (1) year, of which the first three (3) months will be considered as a probationary period.
• Thereafter, the contract may be renewed for a similar period subject to funding availability, satisfactory performance and agreed deliverables. 

Gender Mainstreaming:

• The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Remuneration
The salary attached to the position is an annual lump-sum of US$ 150,341.56  (P4 Step 5) inclusive of all allowances for internationally recruited staff, and US$ 109,105.31 inclusive of all allowances for locally recruited staff of the African Union Commission.

Application Closing Date
19th July, 2023 at 11:59 EAT.