UNICEF is seeking a Communications Officer under the UN Volunteer (UNV) programme to support advocacy, media relations, and communication strategy at its Kenya Country Office in Nairobi.
Deadline: May 17, 2026 Location: Nairobi, Kenya (On UN Premises) Start Date: June 1, 2026 Duration: 3 months (with possibility of extension) Work Schedule: Full-time Type: National Volunteer
About UNICEF
UNICEF is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide, with a presence in 192 countries and territories. Its activities include immunizations, disease prevention, maternal and child nutrition, sanitation, education, and emergency relief.
Key Responsibilities
Communication Work Plan
- Implement the 2026 communication work plan to support country programme objectives, raise awareness of children’s issues, and enhance UNICEF’s credibility and brand
Media Relations
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive contact list of journalists and media outlets across print, TV, radio, and web
- Promote understanding of children’s and women’s rights through media, information, and education activities
- Organize press conferences, issue media materials, and ensure rapid and accurate information dissemination
- Monitor and evaluate the use and effectiveness of media materials
Networking and Partnerships
- Maintain and develop a contact list of individuals, groups, organizations, and forums whose support is essential to achieving advocacy and communication objectives
- Help establish, document, review, and refine processes for collaborative work with partners
Celebrities, Influencers & Special Events
- Identify and develop a contact list of nationally known personalities to support UNICEF’s advocacy and resource mobilization efforts
- Plan visits of Goodwill Ambassadors and Executive Board members, including preparing press releases, programme summaries, and media kits
Global Priorities and Campaigns
- Support UNICEF’s global communications priorities by disseminating elements locally and providing coverage of country work for global use
Resource Mobilization Support
- Support global and country-level fundraising activities through effective advocacy and communication strategies
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or related fields
- Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience in communication, print, broadcast, new media, journalism, public affairs, or corporate communications
- Fluent in English and Kiswahili (both required)
- Fieldwork experience in the development sector or the UN is an advantage
- Background or familiarity with emergency programming is an advantage
Competencies
- Self-Awareness and Ethical Awareness
- Works Collaboratively with others
- Builds and Maintains Partnerships
- Innovates and Embraces Change
- Thinks and Acts Strategically
- Drive to achieve impactful results
- Manages ambiguity and complexity
How to Apply
Apply Here – UNICEF Communications Officer UNV Kenya 2026 by May 17, 2026.
