Peer Service Provider (FSWs) / Yirgachefie (5 Positions)

Location: Yirgachefie

Organization: Mekdim Ethiopia National Association (MENA)

Deadline: Jan 4, 2025

Job Description

URGENT INTERNAL/EXTERNALVACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Mekdim Ethiopia National Association (MENA) is an indigenous national non-governmental, non-political and not for profit humanitarian organization working in the area of HIV/AIDS prevention, care, treatment and support services for the past 30 years throughout the country.

Accordingly, MENA is now in process of recruiting employees for its Global-Fund/GC7-HIV Prevention Project sub-granted from CCRDA aimed at “Expanding Access to Comprehensive HIV Prevention and Care Services for Key and Priority Populations in Selected High-Incidence Woredas/Towns”  of South Ethiopia and Oromia Regional State Government; thus, the organization invites interested and competent candidates on the following vacant posts:

Job Description for FSWs Peer Service Providers

1. Job Summary

• Position Title: Peer Service Provider (FSWs)
• Reports To: DIC Coordinator or DIC Nurse
• Required No:5
• Work Location: Yirgachefie
• Gender: Female
• Employment Type: Full-Time/Part-Time
• Salary: Negotiable

2. Job Purpose

The Peer Service Provider will deliver tailored support, outreach, and education to female sex workers (FSWs) to promote health, well-being, and access to essential services. As a peer, they will provide trusted and relatable support to FSWs, bridging gaps between the community and the Drop-In Center (DIC).

3. Key Responsibilities

Outreach and Engagement

• Conduct regular outreach activities to connect with FSWs in the community.
• Build trusting relationships with FSWs to encourage their participation in DIC services.
• Identify and support high-risk individuals to access health and social services.

Service Provision

• Provide basic health education on topics like HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, and substance use.
• Distribute condoms, lubricants, and other essential materials during outreach.
• Facilitate referrals to medical, counseling, and legal services as needed.
• Support FSWs in accessing services at the DIC and other partner organizations.

Community Mobilization

• Organize and facilitate group discussions, workshops, and awareness campaigns for FSWs.
• Foster peer support networks within the community to promote well-being and resilience.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of FSWs within the local community.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of outreach activities, services provided, and referrals made.
• Collect feedback from FSWs to improve the relevance and quality of services.
• Prepare and submit activity reports to the DIC Coordinator or Project Coordinator.

4. Qualifications

Education

• Minimum of Grade 10 completion or equivalent.

Experience

• Lived experience as an FSW or strong familiarity with the community is essential.
• Prior experience in peer education, outreach, or community mobilization is an advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with diverse individuals.
• Basic knowledge of HIV/AIDS, sexual and reproductive health, and harm reduction strategies.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and maintain professionalism in challenging situations.
• Proficiency in [local language] is an advantage.

5. Key Attributes

• Empathy, understanding, and respect for FSWs’ experiences.
• Commitment to confidentiality and ethical service delivery.
• Flexibility and adaptability to dynamic working environments.
• A non-judgmental attitude and willingness to support marginalized populations.

6. Working Conditions

• Based at the DIC, with frequent travel to the community for outreach activities.
• May involve work during evenings, weekends, or holidays to meet community needs.

7. Application Process

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV , cover letter, and relevant certifications to the following address within 7 days from the date of this vacancy announcement.

Yirgachefie Town Health Office to Mr. Asrat Hailu (09-16-18-27-43), or Mr. Abdissa Zeleke (09-11-72-66-30/09-16-66-56-53) or attach to: [abdissazeleke2016@gmail.com] before the application deadline.

Or potential applicant can use the following link for the application.

https://mekdimethiopia.org/vacancy

MENA highly encourage applications from women and people living with HIV.

Application deadline: January 4, 2025 at 5:00 PM

NB. MENA have the right to cancel the vacancy announcement and also only short-listed applicants will be communicated.