UNDP: Programme Associate – Kigali

Organization Mission

The United Nations Development Programme supports Rwanda’s development agenda in alignment with Vision 2050, NST2, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, focusing on sustainable and inclusive growth. Its work integrates economic, environmental, and governance solutions to address complex challenges. Key priorities include promoting green and inclusive economic transformation, strengthening transparent and accountable governance, and fostering social cohesion through civic engagement, gender equality, and equitable access to services. Across all interventions, UNDP emphasizes inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, while leveraging innovation and digitalization to enhance impact and sustainability.

Context

The UN Volunteer will support effective programme implementation, coordination, and monitoring. He/she will contribute to the day-to-day management of projects, ensure compliance with UNDP rules and procedures, facilitate partnerships, and support knowledge management and reporting. The role is critical to ensuring timely delivery of programme results, strengthening operational efficiency, and enhancing the visibility and impact of UNDP’s work in sustainable energy, environment, and climate change in Rwanda.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Programme specialist and head of SEEDCC, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

• Project Planning and Implementation Support: Assist the team in compiling data for project work plans, drafting budgets, and preparing background materials. Help ensure project business processes are compliant with UNDP procedures.
• Administrative and Logistical Coordination: Support the organization of project events, workshops, and field missions, including coordinating procurement procedures, managing logistical arrangements, and maintaining project records and files.
• Monitoring and Reporting Assistance: Help collect and present information for project monitoring against targets. Assist in tracking project expenditures, supporting the preparation of financial reports, and drafting sections of progress reports as guided by the supervisor.
• Partnership and Communication Support: Assist in maintaining contact lists for partners and stakeholders. Support the team in preparing communication materials and visibility products to highlight project activities and results.
• Knowledge Management: Contribute to compiling and organizing project knowledge, lessons learned, and tools for dissemination within the team and to relevant partners.
 

During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check‑ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance feedback.

Required Skills and Experience

Demonstrated interest or experience (up to three years) in:
• Project Administration & Coordination: Foundational experience or strong interest in project cycle support, including assisting with work plan tracking, basic budget monitoring, and administrative coordination (derived from internships, academic projects, or early-career roles).
• Logistical & Event Support: Familiarity with organizing logistics for events, capacity-building workshops, meetings, or field missions, including assisting with procurement or travel arrangements.
• Climate & Environment Sector: A clear, demonstrated passion for sustainable development, climate change adaptation, or environmental protection evidenced through academic coursework, university research, local volunteering, or community initiatives.
• Data & Record Management: Interest or basic experience in collecting data for monitoring purposes, maintaining project files, and ensuring documentation compliance.

Skills in:
• Organization & Attention to Detail: Strong administrative and organizational skills, with a meticulous approach to handling project documents, routine financial data, and logistical planning.
• Communication & Drafting: Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to draft clear meeting minutes, routine correspondence, and inputs for project briefs or progress reports.
• Digital Tools & Systems: High proficiency in standard office software (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and a strong aptitude for quickly learning project management tools or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (such as UN/UNDP operational systems).
• Collaborative Teamwork: Ability to work flexibly and supportively within a fast-paced, multi-cultural team, assisting with diverse cross-cutting tasks as they arise.

Core Competencies

☒ Commitment and Motivation
☒Commitment to Continuous Learning
☒Adaptability and Flexibility
☒Commitment and Motivation
☒Communication
☒Ethics and Values
☒Integrity
☒Planning and Organizing
☒Professionalism
☒Respect for Diversity
☒Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is a stable and well-developed city with modern infrastructure and minimal congestion. Transport options include fast motorcycle taxis (best used with a personal helmet), standard taxis such as Kigali Taxi Service and airport taxis, as well as affordable and efficient public buses accessible via prepaid cards. Rental cars are also available. The city offers a wide range of quality accommodations and recreational facilities, along with diverse shopping options for both essential and imported goods. Healthcare services are reliable, with public and private facilities such as King Faisal Hospital, Kanombe Military Hospital and Legacy Clinic, etc…equipped for emergencies and linked to CIGNA insurance. Kigali is regarded as highly safe, supported by accessible emergency services (999 police, 111 fire, 112 general emergencies, 113 traffic accidents). UN Volunteers receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (MVLA) designed to cover basic living costs including housing, utilities, transport, and communication, ensuring a secure standard of living in line with United Nations standards. The MVLA is not a salary or compensation, but a subsistence allowance to prevent personal financial burden during the assignment.

Visa process:
Rwanda facilitates a straightforward visa process for international visitors:
Visa on Arrival: Nationals of all countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and all land borders, valid for 30 days. Citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states receive this visa free of charge for visits up to 30 days. Fur-ther details on the visa requirements to Rwanda can be obtained from this link. Visit Rwanda
Online Application (e-Visa): Travelers preferring to secure a visa before arrival can apply online through the IremboGov portal. The processing time is approximately 7 days, and fees vary based on the visa type. For more details refer to this link. Irembo Support
Visa Application Requirements:
1) A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
2) A recent passport-sized photograph.
3) Completed visa application form.
4) Proof of accommodation or invitation letter.
5) Return or onward travel ticket.
Important Considerations:
1) Visa fees and processing times vary depending on nationality and visa categories.
2) It’s advisable to check the latest visa requirements before travel, as regulations may change.
3) Ensure all required documents are prepared to support a smooth application process.
For the most up to date information, consult the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration or the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate