200 AVoHC Rapid Responder Volunteer Positions at African Union – Risk Communication & Community Engagement Experts (Deadline: 12 September 2025)

The African Union (AU) through the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced 200 volunteer opportunities under the African Volunteers Health Corps (AVoHC). These positions focus on Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), a critical role in responding to public health emergencies across the continent.

If you are a professional in public health, communication, social sciences, journalism, or related fields, this is a unique opportunity to serve Africa and make a difference during outbreaks and health crises.

 Important Note: These are volunteer positions, not salaried jobs. Selected candidates will join the AVoHC roster and may be deployed when needed.

About the African Union and Africa CDC

The African Union (AU) is a continental body composed of 55 Member States, working to achieve greater unity, peace, security, and development in Africa. Within the AU, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) plays a vital role in disease prevention, detection, and response.

The African Volunteers Health Corps (AVoHC) is a roster of trained professionals who can be quickly deployed to support Member States during health crises such as pandemics, outbreaks, and other emergencies.

Job Overview

• Position Title: AVoHC Rapid Responder – Risk Communication and Community Engagement Expert
• Organization: Africa CDC – Directorate of Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR)
• Number of Positions: 200
• Contract Type: Volunteer (roster-based)
• Deadline: 12 September 2025
• Location: Any AU Member State (deployable as needed)

Purpose of the Role

The purpose of this role is to strengthen Africa’s capacity to respond to public health emergencies by engaging communities and ensuring accurate, timely, and effective communication during crises.

The expert will:

• Support Ministries of Health and local authorities
• Guide health workers, journalists, and community leaders in emergency communication
• Build trust between governments and communities
• Ensure vulnerable groups adopt protective measures
• Improve preparedness for future outbreaks

Main Responsibilities

As a Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) Expert, you will:

• Strengthen national risk communication policies and outreach systems.
• Train and support health professionals, journalists, and stakeholders.
• Design and disseminate public health messages tailored for communities.
• Promote emergency communication best practices based on lessons learned.
• Support vulnerable populations in adopting protective measures.
• Develop multimedia products for public health campaigns.
• Monitor and evaluate risk communication efforts.

Eligibility Requirements

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Communication, Social Sciences, Anthropology, or related field with 5 years of experience.
• OR a Master’s degree in the same fields with at least 2 years of experience.

Desirable Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Public Health, Communication, Social Sciences, Statistics, or related disciplines.

Professional Experience

Candidates must have relevant experience in at least three of the following areas:

• Emergency risk communication
• Community engagement
• Social sciences
• Journalism / media communication
• Health diplomacy
• Public health

Required Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in risk communication and public health programmes.
• Strong multimedia communication skills (designing, producing, and distributing health content).
• Ability to translate technical information into simple language for the public.
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work in multicultural environments.
• Resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

Application Process

To apply, follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the African Union Careers Portal – jobs.au.int.
2. Download the official AU CV Template from the portal.
3. Fill out the template accurately.
4. Upload the completed CV under the “Resume” section of your profile.
5. Submit your application before 12 September 2025.

Important: Applications without the AU CV template will not be considered.

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Why Volunteer with Africa CDC?

While this is not a salaried position, the opportunity provides:

• Continental recognition as an African Union volunteer.
• Professional experience in international health emergency response.
• Networking with experts, governments, and global health partners.
• The chance to directly save lives and protect communities during crises.
• Career growth – many past AVoHC volunteers later secured permanent roles with AU, WHO, or UN agencies.

 

Key Dates

• Posting Start Date: 12 August 2025
• Application Deadline: 12 September 2025
• Positions Available: 200

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this a paid job?
No. This is a volunteer position under the African Volunteers Health Corps. It is not salaried employment.

2. Who can apply?
Citizens of all AU Member States with relevant education and experience.

3. Will I be deployed immediately after selection?
Not necessarily. Selected candidates will be placed on a roster and called upon during emergencies.

4. Can I apply if I am already employed?
Yes. In fact, Africa CDC encourages professionals who are employed but willing to volunteer when needed.

5. Do I need English proficiency?
Yes. Since communication is key, fluency in English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, or Kiswahili is an added advantage.

 

 

 ✨  – Don’t Miss Your Shot!

The AVoHC Rapid Responder Programme is one of the most impactful ways to contribute to Africa’s health security. By volunteering, you will not only serve your continent but also gain exposure and expertise in international health emergency management.

If you are passionate about public health, communication, and community engagement, this is your chance to step up and make a difference.

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🌍 👉 Apply Now: Visit jobs.au.int and submit your application before 12 September 2025.

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