About Company
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent medical humanitarian organisation that provides aid in nearly 70 countries to people whose lives are threatened by violence, neglect, or disaster. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), MSF has been actively involved for decades, responding to epidemics, malnutrition crises, displacement, and armed conflict. Our teams work tirelessly to deliver essential healthcare, perform emergency interventions, and provide mental health support, always prioritizing the most vulnerable populations. Operating in challenging and often remote environments like Isiro, Haut-Uélé Province, MSF is committed to a neutral and impartial approach, ensuring that medical care reaches those who need it most, regardless of their background or beliefs. Joining MSF means becoming part of a global movement dedicated to saving lives and alleviating suffering.
Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Community Mobilizer to join our Public Health team in Isiro, Haut-Uélé Province. In this critical role, you will be the bridge between MSF’s medical programs and the communities we serve, ensuring effective communication, trust-building, and active participation in health initiatives. You will work directly with community members, local leaders, and health committees to identify pressing health needs, disseminate vital health information, and promote healthy behaviors. This position is central to the success of our public health interventions, including vaccination campaigns, hygiene promotion, disease surveillance, and emergency response. You will facilitate community meetings, conduct household visits, and organize awareness sessions on topics such as malaria prevention, maternal and child health, cholera prevention, and nutrition. The Community Mobilizer plays a crucial role in collecting feedback from the community, helping MSF to adapt and improve its programs to be culturally appropriate and responsive to local contexts. This is a challenging yet profoundly rewarding opportunity for individuals who are committed to making a tangible difference in the health and well-being of vulnerable populations in a dynamic and often complex environment. You will be instrumental in empowering communities to take charge of their health and fostering a collaborative spirit between MSF and the people of Isiro.
Key Responsibilities
- Engage directly with community members, traditional leaders, and local authorities to build trust and foster collaboration.
- Conduct household visits and community meetings to identify health concerns, gather feedback, and understand cultural practices related to health.
- Disseminate accurate and culturally appropriate health messages on topics such as hygiene, sanitation, disease prevention (e.g., cholera, malaria, measles), nutrition, and maternal and child health.
- Facilitate the organization and implementation of public health campaigns, including vaccination drives, mass health screenings, and distribution of health materials.
- Monitor community health trends and report any unusual health events or outbreaks to the medical team.
- Support the referral of patients from the community to MSF health facilities, ensuring follow-up as needed.
- Act as a liaison between the community and MSF project teams, relaying concerns, suggestions, and feedback to ensure programs are relevant and effective.
- Participate in data collection activities, including surveys and assessments, to inform program planning and evaluation.
- Train and support community health volunteers on basic health promotion activities and reporting.
- Adhere to MSF’s safety and security protocols, and maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information and organizational data.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in French and Swahili (written and spoken), and fluency in Lingala or a local dialect prevalent in Haut-Uélé.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport and trust within communities.
- Basic understanding of public health principles and common health issues in the DRC context.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a challenging environment.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail for reporting and data collection.
- Commitment to humanitarian principles and MSF’s mission.
Preferred Qualifications
- Diploma or certification in Social Sciences, Community Health, Education, or a related field.
- At least 1-2 years of experience in community mobilization, health promotion, or social work, preferably with an NGO or health organization.
- Prior experience working in rural or remote areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Familiarity with local customs, traditions, and social structures in Haut-Uélé Province.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive local salary package.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Exposure to diverse public health challenges and solutions.
- A supportive and dynamic international team environment.
- The chance to make a significant impact on vulnerable communities.
- Paid time off and holidays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your application includes a detailed CV and a cover letter explaining your suitability for this role and your motivation to work with MSF. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.