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INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION  

 

 

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems. ITU also organizes global Telecom events bringing together the most influential representatives of government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all.

 

Communications Consultant 

 

Vacancy notice no: 1971 
Sector: BDT
Department: Regional Offices
Country of contract: Remote
Duty station: Home Based

 

Position number: [[positionNumber]] 
Grade: [[PositionGrade]] 
Type of contract: Consultant
Duration of contract: 1 year
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 24 March 2025

 

ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT

 

The Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) is responsible for the organization and coordination of the work of the Telecommunication Development Sector of the Union. BDT deals mainly with development policies, strategies, programming, projects, as well as technical cooperation activities to enable and foster universal access to affordable, high-quality and secure telecommunications/ICTs and Foster equitable and inclusive use of telecommunications/ICTs to empower people and societies for sustainable development. To effectively and efficiently serve the needs of Member States, BDT is organized into four functional areas:

  • Operations Coordination Department (Office of the Deputy to the Director) (DDR)
  • Projects, Partnerships & Digital Skills Department (PPS) 
  • Digital Networks & Environment Department (DNE) 
  • Digital Knowledge Society Department (DKS)

The regional offices provide assistance to the ITU Member States of the Region, ensuring a close relationship and collaboration. To implement the agreed programs and projects, in accordance with the ITU Strategy Plan and the BDT Action Plan, with the active support of all Departments, providing timely information about their development. To provide proper line management and support, the Regional Directors report to the Director of the BDT.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Africa-BroadBand (BB)-Maps is an ITU-led initiative supported by the European Commission, designed to accelerate digital transformation across Africa. The project focuses on establishing national broadband mapping systems to provide data-driven insights, guide investment strategies, and identify connectivity gaps. By integrating broadband mapping into national policies, the initiative aims to enhance digital infrastructure, foster equitable access to connectivity, and drive socio-economic development. 
The project will benefit 11 Sub-Saharan African countries, including Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. These countries will utilize broadband mapping to address challenges in internet coverage, quality, and affordability, enabling evidence-based policymaking and strategic investments. 
Africa-BB-Maps also creates a platform for collaboration between EU NRAs and their African counterparts, facilitating knowledge exchange and sharing of best practices. It represents a key milestone in leveraging European expertise to support Africa’s digital transformation goals while fostering mutual benefits for all stakeholders involved.
 

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Under the guidance of the Head of the BDT Communication service, and in close coordination with the Project Manager of the Africa-BB-Maps and the Project Officer, the consultant will provide communication and outreach support for the Africa-BB-Maps project. This role will involve designing and executing a communication strategy to promote the project and its deliverables while ensuring stakeholder engagement and public awareness of its outcomes. 
The specific activities include: 

  • Develop and implement a communication strategy and plan for the Africa-BB-Maps project. 
  • Ensure compliance of the Africa-BB-Maps strategy and implementation with ITU Communication Guidelines and the official EU Guidelines for EU funded projects, in particular ‘Communicating and Raising EU Visibility Guidelines’. 
  • Create and prepare content for various platforms, including websites, social media channels, and newsletters.
  • Assist in designing promotional materials, such as brochures, banners, and infographics, to showcase project goals and progress. 
  • Assist in the production of videos, by preparing video scripts, film or collecting footage and editing videos and photographs during events, workshops, and field visits to document key moments.
  • Assist with media engagement activities, including drafting press releases, and  maintaining media relationships. 
  • Support the planning and execution of project-related events, ensuring adequate communication before, during, and after. 
  • Monitor and analyse the effectiveness of communication campaigns, providing regular reports on outreach metrics. 
  • Collaborate with project stakeholders to align messaging and communication strategies with project goals. 
  • Assist with the preparation of internal and external presentations and other communication materials.  
     

CONCRETE DELIVERABLES

  • A comprehensive communication strategy tailored to the Africa-BB-Maps project.
  • Regular updates and posts on social media platforms. 
  • Promotional materials for projects activities.
  • Visual content (videos and photos) documenting project milestones.
  • Analytical reports on the performance of communication campaigns. 
     

COMPETENCIES

  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong skills in video and photo editing, with proficiency in relevant tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva, Wordpress).

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Education:
University degree in communications, public relations, media studies, Journalism, or a related field. 


Experience:
At least one (1) year of professional experience in communications with demonstrated interest in Africa’s developmental issues, particularly digital transformation and connectivity.


Languages:
Knowledge of English at advanced level. French would be an advantage. 
 

REMUNERATION INFORMATION

Between USD 145 and USD 200 per day to be  defined according to the work experience of the consultant.

INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS   


Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU career website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.

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