Specialist, Transformational Governance – UNDP Rwanda: A Comprehensive Role Overview

March 6, 2025

10 minutes read

This Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance role at UNDP Rwanda is a high-level, full-time position focused on governance, policy advisory, and program management. The selected candidate will lead UNDP’s Transformational Governance Portfolio, working closely with government agencies, international partners, and civil society to drive impactful governance reforms in Rwanda.

Key Aspects of the Role:

1. Strategic Leadership in Governance Programs

The Programme Specialist will design, develop, and implement governance programs in areas like:
- Access to Justice
- Human Rights
- Peace and Reconciliation
- Anti-Corruption
- Local Government and Security Sector Reform
The role involves conducting political, social, and economic analysis to ensure UNDP’s programs align with Rwanda’s development goals.

2. Project and Team Management

The specialist will oversee governance projects from conception to execution, ensuring effective implementation.
They will lead a team within UNDP and collaborate with other program managers to maintain a cohesive country office strategy.

3. Building Partnerships & Resource Mobilization

Developing strategic relationships with government agencies, donors, UN partners, NGOs, and private sector players.
Identifying funding opportunities and working to secure financial resources for governance programs.
Leading advocacy efforts to strengthen UNDP’s position in governance-related issues in Rwanda.

4. Policy Advisory & Knowledge Management

Offering high-quality policy advice to the government and other stakeholders.
Engaging in research and analysis on governance trends and best practices.
Contributing to knowledge-sharing within UNDP and the broader development community.

Qualifications Required:

Education:
- A Master’s degree in Political Science, International Law, Social Affairs, International Relations, or a related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of experience is also considered.
Experience:
- At least 5 years (Master’s) or 7 years (Bachelor’s) in governance, program management, or international development.
- Experience with policy-making, advisory work, and managing development projects.
- Knowledge of UNDP’s policies and working with international development organizations is an advantage.
Languages:
- Fluency in English is required.
- Knowledge of Kinyarwanda and/or Kiswahili (the national languages) is required for local staff.

Key Competencies for Success

Strategic Thinking & Innovation – Ability to lead and implement governance strategies effectively.
Program & Project Management – Ensuring smooth execution of governance initiatives.
Partnership Development – Strong engagement with government, donors, and civil society.
Policy Analysis & Advisory – Providing expert advice on governance reforms.
Advocacy & Communication – Promoting governance initiatives through public engagement.

Why This Role Matters

The Transformational Governance Portfolio is crucial in strengthening democratic governance, human rights, and justice reforms in Rwanda. This role allows UNDP to support the government and civil society in achieving sustainable governance goals, aligning with Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

That’s a very detailed request! Below, I will provide a comprehensive explanation of the Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance role at UNDP Rwanda, covering all aspects such as job responsibilities, strategic importance, required qualifications, competencies, the significance of governance in Rwanda, and potential impact on development.

Comprehensive Overview of the Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance Role at UNDP Rwanda

1. Introductionhttp://UNDP Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance – Kigali, Rwanda

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance position at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Rwanda is a key leadership role responsible for designing, managing, and implementing governance-focused programs that align with Rwanda’s national development goals.

This role is essential in ensuring that UNDP contributes effectively to Rwanda’s governance framework, which includes promoting human rights, access to justice, anti-corruption initiatives, peacebuilding, security sector reform, and overall democratic governance. The specialist will work closely with the Government of Rwanda, civil society, international organizations, and donors to advance good governance and sustainable development.

This document provides a detailed breakdown of the role, explaining responsibilities, qualifications, key competencies, challenges, and the broader significance of transformational governance in Rwanda.

2. Key Responsibilities and Expectations

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance will oversee a wide range of governance initiatives that contribute to the overall peace, stability, and development of Rwanda. Below is a structured analysis of the role’s major responsibilities:

A. Strategic Leadership in Governance Programme Design & Implementation

Governance Analysis & Policy Development
- Conducts thorough political, social, and economic analysis to understand the governance landscape in Rwanda.
- Ensures that UNDP’s governance programs align with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), and the UNDP Strategic Plan (2022-2025).
- Identifies challenges in governance, democracy, and rule of law and develops policy recommendations for sustainable solutions.
Programme and Project Development
- Leads the design and formulation of governance-related projects and initiatives.
- Ensures that governance projects address key themes such as:
  - Access to justice and human rights protection
  - Decentralization and local governance capacity building
  - Political participation and inclusion
  - Anti-corruption measures
  - Conflict prevention and peacebuilding
  - Legal reforms and institutional strengthening
Innovative and Cross-Sectoral Approaches
- Promotes an integrated approach by linking governance to economic development, gender equality, climate action, and digital transformation.
- Works with UNDP’s Accelerator Labs to develop innovative solutions for governance challenges.

B. Partnership Building and Resource Mobilization@vacancyspaces.com

Engaging with Stakeholders
- Establishes strong relationships with government agencies, civil society organizations, international donors, private sector partners, and academia.
- Works with other UN agencies and regional bodies to ensure synergies and coordinated interventions.
Resource Mobilization
- Identifies funding opportunities from bilateral and multilateral donors, international financial institutions (IFIs), and private foundations.
- Designs and implements strategies to secure financial and technical support for governance initiatives.
Advocacy and Public Engagement
- Leads advocacy campaigns on governance issues, promoting transparency, human rights, and democratic values.
- Represents UNDP at high-level meetings, conferences, and public forums.

C. Effective Programme and Team Management

Programme Oversight
- Manages day-to-day implementation of governance projects, ensuring they deliver expected results.
- Oversees budgeting, financial planning, and compliance with UNDP regulations and donor requirements.
- Ensures all projects are implemented efficiently, transparently, and accountably.
Team Leadership and Capacity Building
- Leads a multidisciplinary team within UNDP Rwanda’s Transformational Governance Portfolio.
- Provides guidance, mentorship, and training to project staff and partners.
- Promotes a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing.

D. Policy Advisory and Knowledge Management

High-Quality Policy Advisory Services
- Provides expert policy advice to the Government of Rwanda, development partners, and civil society organizations on governance reforms.
- Supports institutional capacity-building efforts for government institutions involved in governance, justice, and human rights.
Research and Knowledge Dissemination

Leads research on governance trends, challenges, and opportunities.
Documents lessons learned and best practices to inform future governance programming.
Develops policy briefs, research reports, and case studies.

3. Required Qualifications and Experience

To successfully perform this role, the candidate must meet the following qualifications:

A. Educational Background

Master’s degree in Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, Law, Development Studies, or related fields.
Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field must have an additional two years of experience.

B. Work Experience

At least 5 years of experience (for candidates with a Master’s) or 7 years of experience (for candidates with a Bachelor’s) in:
- Governance programming
- Public policy development
- Democratic governance, human rights, and justice reform
- International development and donor coordination
Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, government institutions, or international development organizations is highly desirable.

C. Language Requirements

Fluency in English is mandatory.
Fluency in Kinyarwanda and/or Kiswahili is required for local staff.

4. Competencies and Skills Required

The candidate must demonstrate the following competencies:

A. Core Competencies

Strategic Thinking – Ability to develop long-term governance strategies aligned with national and global goals.
Innovation – Willingness to explore new solutions to governance challenges.
Adaptability – Ability to adjust strategies based on evolving political and social conditions.
Collaboration and Partnership – Strong skills in negotiating, engaging, and managing stakeholders.
Results-Driven Leadership – Capacity to manage multiple complex projects efficiently.

B. Technical Competencies

Programme and Portfolio Management – Strong understanding of project design, monitoring, and evaluation.
Policy and Advocacy Expertise – Experience in shaping governance policies and influencing decision-making.
Resource Mobilization – Proven ability to secure funding and build partnerships.
Digital Governance Awareness – Knowledge of digital tools for governance, transparency, and civic engagement.

5. The Significance of Transformational Governance in Rwanda

Rwanda has made significant progress in governance and development over the past two decades. However, challenges remain in areas such as political participation, human rights, transparency, and institutional capacity-building.

The Transformational Governance Portfolio at UNDP Rwanda is designed to support:

Stronger democratic institutions
Improved access to justice
Greater civic engagement and public participation
Enhanced transparency and anti-corruption efforts

The Programme Specialist’s role is critical in ensuring that UNDP’s governance programs contribute to Rwanda’s long-term development and stability.

6. Conclusion

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance is a leadership role that requires a deep understanding of governance issues, strong project management skills, strategic vision, and the ability to engage with multiple stakeholders. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing governance reforms in Rwanda, supporting the government and civil society in their efforts to build a more just, transparent, and inclusive society.

Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance – UNDP Rwanda

Comprehensive Job Overview

1. Introduction to UNDP and the Role

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a critical role in supporting global development initiatives. As part of its mandate, UNDP works closely with governments, civil society, and international organizations to promote sustainable development, economic transformation, governance, and resilience-building.

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance is a leadership role within UNDP Rwanda, designed to ensure the success of governance-related initiatives. The specialist will focus on policy development, program implementation, stakeholder coordination, and capacity building to promote democratic governance, access to justice, human rights, and inclusion in Rwanda.

2. Background and Context

Rwanda has made significant strides in governance, economic growth, and social transformation over the past decades. The government’s efforts, supported by development partners like UNDP, have focused on achieving sustainable and inclusive growth, strengthening institutions, promoting gender equality, and enhancing transparency in governance.

The Transformational Governance Portfolio is central to UNDP Rwanda’s Country Programme Document (CPD), which aligns with Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Programme Specialist will lead this portfolio, ensuring the implementation of governance programs that contribute to peace, stability, accountability, and the rule of law.

3. Position Purpose and Key Responsibilities

The Programme Specialist will play a multifaceted role, providing leadership in program execution, resource mobilization, strategic partnerships, policy advisory, and knowledge management. The position requires strong expertise in governance, public administration, democracy, human rights, and development programming.

A. Strategic Programme Development

Lead the design, planning, and implementation of governance-related programs in Rwanda.
Conduct thorough political, social, and economic analysis to inform project priorities.
Develop policies that align with UNDP’s Strategic Plan (2022-2025) and national governance priorities.
Ensure governance programs promote inclusivity, transparency, and human rights.
Support gender equality, social protection, and reconciliation initiatives.
Work closely with UN agencies, government ministries, civil society, and development partners to coordinate governance interventions.

B. Programme Management and Implementation

Lead programme formulation, execution, and monitoring, ensuring high-impact results.
Oversee the governance portfolio’s budgeting, financial management, and reporting.
Implement innovative governance solutions using a data-driven approach.
Ensure effective use of UNDP’s Result-Based Management (RBM) tools.
Coordinate governance projects at both national and local levels.
Facilitate cross-sectoral integration to promote accountability and public sector reforms.

C. Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilization

Develop strategic partnerships with government institutions, civil society, private sector actors, and development partners.
Identify opportunities for joint programming with other UN agencies.
Lead fundraising and resource mobilization efforts to expand governance programs.
Promote multi-stakeholder engagement in governance and democracy initiatives.
Represent UNDP at high-level forums, policy dialogues, and inter-agency meetings.

D. Policy Advisory and Technical Support

Provide high-quality policy advice to the Rwandan government on governance reforms.
Develop and recommend best practices for governance, democracy, and justice sector development.
Engage in policy dialogue with key national stakeholders, including parliament, ministries, and local governments.
Contribute to UNDP’s role as a knowledge hub for governance and democracy programming.

E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Management

Support institutional capacity-building for governance actors, civil servants, and policy-makers.
Promote knowledge-sharing and south-south cooperation in governance.
Develop training materials and tools to enhance governance effectiveness.
Support research, advocacy, and communication strategies on governance issues.

4. Required Qualifications and Experience

A. Educational Qualifications

Master’s degree in Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, Law, Governance, or a related field.
A Bachelor’s degree with additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.

B. Work Experience

Minimum 5 years (Master’s) or 7 years (Bachelor’s) of relevant experience in governance, democracy, public administration, or human rights.
Experience working in international development organizations, bilateral agencies, or NGOs.
Proven ability to manage multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder programs.
Experience in policy advisory, strategic planning, and capacity building.
Strong track record in resource mobilization and partnership development.
Prior experience with UNDP, the UN system, or other multilateral organizations is an asset.

C. Language and Technical Skills

Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.
Fluency in Kinyarwanda and/or Kiswahili is required for local staff.
Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
Ability to work in multicultural teams and politically sensitive environments.
Proficiency in digital governance tools, data analytics, and program management software is an advantage.

5. Expected Impact and Career Growth Opportunities

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance role is an opportunity for experienced governance professionals to make a lasting impact on Rwanda’s democratic and institutional development.

Through this position, the specialist will:

Shape Rwanda’s governance landscape by influencing policy and institutional reforms.
Gain hands-on experience working with government ministries, civil society organizations, and development partners.
Strengthen Rwanda’s anti-corruption, access to justice, and public sector reforms.
Enhance their career trajectory in international development, UN system leadership, and governance programming.
Work within a collaborative and innovative environment that fosters learning, creativity, and high-impact solutions.

6. UNDP’s Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Ethical Standards

UNDP is an equal opportunity employer, strongly committed to:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in hiring.
Ensuring a harassment-free and ethical workplace.
Promoting a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and misconduct.
Creating a safe, inclusive environment for individuals from marginalized and underrepresented communities.

As part of UNDP’s recruitment process, selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks to uphold ethical hiring practices.

7. Application Process and Deadline

Interested candidates can apply via the official UNDP career portal:

🔗 Apply Here

Application Deadline: March 13, 2025 (5:59 AM, Kigali time)
Job Schedule: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years with the possibility of extension)
Location: Kigali, Rwanda

Conclusion

The Programme Specialist, Transformational Governance position at UNDP Rwanda offers a unique opportunity to lead governance reforms, foster institutional development, and contribute to sustainable development goals in Rwanda. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in governance, policy advisory, stakeholder engagement, and program implementation.

If you are passionate about transformational governance, human rights, and democracy promotion, this role presents an excellent platform to drive meaningful change in Rwanda’s governance sector.

Would you like further insights or assistance with the application process? Let me know how I can help! 🚀

March 6, 2025

10 minutes read