Policy Advocacy and Communications Consultant – Health and Wellbeing Cluster & SCALE Programme

Job Title: Policy Advocacy and Communications Consultant – Health and Wellbeing Cluster & SCALE Programme

Organization: African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD)

Location: Remote (with travel to Centurion, South Africa & across Africa)

Duration: 8 Months (September 2026 – April 2027 | 140 Man-Days)

Budget: US $50,000

Position Overview

Are you an experienced communications and policy advocacy expert passionate about advancing public health in Africa? The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) is seeking a Policy Advocacy and Communications Consultant to join our team.

In this key role, you will design and execute a strategic advocacy and communications framework for the Health and Wellbeing Cluster and the Securing Continental Access to Lifesaving Essential Medical Products (SCALE) Programme. You will strengthen thought leadership, build political and stakeholder support, enhance visibility, and drive resource mobilization across AU Member States in alignment with AU Agenda 2063.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a high-impact Policy Advocacy and Communications Strategy tailored to the Health and Wellbeing Cluster and SCALE Programme.
Content & Messaging: Craft high-level policy briefs, opinion pieces, speeches, and core messaging aligned with African Union priorities.
Digital & Branding: Produce digital media, website content, brochures, presentation templates, logos, and branding guidelines.
Media & Public Relations: Secure strategic media engagements, draft press releases, and manage media outreach.
Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate high-level dialogues, consultative meetings, and partnership building across public health sectors.

Key Deliverables

1 Comprehensive Advocacy and Communications Strategy
16 Strategic communications assets (thought leadership pieces, website content, digital brochures)
8 Core branding assets (programme logo, banners, presentation templates)
4 High-impact media engagements and press releases
Support and reports for 4 major stakeholder consultative meetings
1 Final Consultancy Report

Qualifications & Requirements

Education: Minimum Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, Public Affairs, or a related field.
Experience: At least 7 years of professional experience in strategic communications, policy advocacy, or public relations.
Sector Expertise: Proven track record with international development organizations (e.g., African Union, RECs, UN, or global public health bodies).
Core Skills: Strong background in content creation, media relations, digital marketing, and high-level stakeholder management.
Language: Fluent in English (proficiency in another AU language is a plus).