Communication Specialist

Background

The Government of Ethiopia has received funding from the World Bank through IDA credit and grant to implement a multi-sectoral project “Response-Recovery-Resilience for Conflict-Affected Communities in Ethiopia”. Overall, the project is led and coordinated by the Federal Project Coordination Unit (FPCU) to be housed in the Ministry of Finance (MoF). The proposed project is structured in four (4) components namely: (i) improvement of access to basic services and economic opportunities for conflict-affected communities (II) strengthening of GBV service delivery and prevention (iii) learning and project management and (iv) and a Zero-dollar Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC).

From this, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs has given lead the implementation of one of the project components “Improving Access to GBV Response Services’’ in the period from 2022 to 2026. The aim of this component is the strengthening of short and medium-term GBV response services for survivors of conflict-related GBV within targeted Woredas; the piloting of innovative GBV prevention programming, both as a mechanism to address underlying norms and dynamics that contribute to violence, and to address factors that prevent GBV survivors from seeking care; and strengthening of institutional capacity for coordination, policymaking, and delivery of quality, confidential, and survivor-centered care across the country.

Objective

The Communication Specialist will support the 3R-4-CACE Project by implementing communication strategies that raise awareness of project objectives, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and inform the public about available GBV services. The specialist will work closely with the project team and relevant stakeholders to ensure that communications are aligned with the Ministry’s mission and project goals.

Scope of Work

The Communication Specialist will undertake the following tasks:

Communication Planning

• Assist in the development and implementation of a communication plan specific to the 3R-4-CACE Project.
• Identify key messages for the project to ensure clarity and consistency in all communications.

Media and Public Relations

• Support media engagement efforts by preparing press releases, media briefs, and project updates.
• Facilitate media events, including press conferences and project-related public engagements, to boost visibility.

Content Development

• Draft communication materials such as project summaries, updates, and fact sheets to inform stakeholders about project progress.
• Develop content for digital platforms, focusing on accessible and culturally appropriate messaging.

Social Media and Digital Engagement

• Assist in managing the project’s social media presence, posting regular updates and engaging with audiences.
• Monitor social media trends and provide input on relevant content that aligns with the project’s objectives.

Stakeholder Communication

• Support communication with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and local community groups, including consultations with women and girls in communities.
• Contribute to donor communication efforts by preparing briefing notes and reporting updates.
• Facilitate the exchange of best practices, information sharing, and joint advocacy initiatives to address systemic challenges and gaps in GBV services.

Deliverables

• A communication plan for the 3R-4-CACE Project, ensuring adherence with safe and ethical practice on reporting sensitive topics like GBV in the media.
• Regular updates and content for social media and other digital platforms.
• A set of communication materials, including press releases, project briefs, and social media posts.
• Biannual, Annual and periodic reports summarizing communication activities and outcomes.

Reporting

The Communication Specialist will report to the 3R-4-CACE Project Coordinator and work closely with the project team and MoWSA’s communications department.

Duration and Location

The position is based in Addis Ababa, with occasional travel to project sites as required. The contract will be for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs.

Remuneration.

As per the Ministry of Finance channel one harmonized project staff salary scale. MoWSA will arrange reasonable and standard office space with office furniture and equipment required for the assignment. The project will avail internet access and related communication and electronic facilities for official project duties of the specialist/consultant.

Evaluation Matrix for Communication Specialist

Evaluation Criteria	Weight (%)
1. Educational Qualifications	20%
2. General Experience	20%
3. Relevant Experience (Specific to Communications or GBV)	30%
4. Technical Skills & GBV Knowledge	30%
Total Score	100%

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in communication, preferably with projects focused on social issues or development.
• Proficiency in media relations, social media management, and stakeholder communication.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and Amharic.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to evolving project needs.