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Volunteer Opportunity: Capacity Development and Policy Support Officer.
Details
Description
Organization Overview
Rural African Matters (RAM) is a development-focused organization committed to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting inclusive policy engagement, and advancing sustainable rural development across Africa. Our work centers on empowering communities, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and fostering collaborative development partnerships.
Position Summary
Rural African Matters is recruiting three Volunteer Capacity Development and Policy Support Officers at different operational levels:
- 1 International Volunteer (Remote)
- 1 National Volunteer
- 1 County-Level Volunteer (Trans Nzoia County)
These roles offer an opportunity to contribute to meaningful development work while gaining practical experience in capacity strengthening, policy analysis, stakeholder coordination, and program implementation.
Impact of the Role
Volunteers will directly contribute to:
- Strengthening institutional and community capacity
- Supporting evidence-informed policy dialogue
- Enhancing program effectiveness through research and documentation
- Promoting inclusive rural development initiatives
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities will vary slightly by level but may include:
- Conducting research and policy analysis
- Drafting policy briefs, reports, and concept notes
- Supporting stakeholder coordination and engagement
- Assisting in capacity-building initiatives and training activities
- Supporting monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes
- Representing RAM in relevant forums (as applicable)
Position-Specific Requirements
International Volunteer (Remote)
- Degree in Public Policy, International Development, Governance, Social Sciences, or related field
- Strong research and analytical writing skills
- Experience in international or cross-cultural contexts is an asset
- Ability to work effectively in virtual environments
National Volunteer
- Degree (or postgraduate student) in Development Studies, Public Administration, Governance, Social Sciences, or related field
- Understanding of national development frameworks
- Strong coordination and communication skills
County-Level Volunteer (Trans Nzoia County)
- Must be a resident of Trans Nzoia County
- Diploma or Degree in Community Development, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or related discipline
- Strong community engagement and interpersonal skills
Core Competencies
- Professional integrity and accountability
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Ability to work independently and within a team
- Commitment to inclusive and sustainable rural development
Terms
This is a volunteer opportunity designed to provide professional development, exposure to policy and capacity-building processes, and meaningful contribution to rural transformation initiatives. Specific terms of engagement will be communicated to selected candidates.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Idealist platform.
Interested candidates should submit:
- A cover letter clearly indicating the position level applied for (International, National, or County)
- An updated Curriculum Vitae
Only applications submitted via Idealist will be reviewed.
Location
Associated Location
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Volunteer Opportunity Listing – Rural African Matters (RAM)
Position: Capacity Development and Policy Support Officer (International, National, County – Trans Nzoia)
Duration: 12 months (Renewable)
Time Commitment: 8–15 hours per week, depending on volunteer level
Location: Remote, Hybrid, or Community-Based (Trans Nzoia County for county-level volunteers)
Opportunity Description
Rural African Matters (RAM) seeks committed volunteers to support research, internal capacity development, and evidence-based policy initiatives. Volunteers will help generate reliable data to strengthen decision-making and align local priorities with the National Development Plan. The role emphasizes collaboration across county and national government levels, integrating community insights into policy recommendations.
Volunteers will also engage in environmental conservation programs, drug abuse prevention campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in development programming, policy support, and community engagement within a mission-driven organization.
Instructions for Interested Volunteers
Please submit your application directly through Idealist.
Application Requirements:
- Full Name and Email (automatically required)
- Phone Number (optional)
- Resume/CV (PDF preferred)
- Brief Statement of Interest (max 300 words) explaining your experience and motivation for volunteering
Additional Notes:
- Submit documents in PDF format if possible
- Be prepared to participate in virtual and/or in-person activities based on your volunteer level
