The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger, is actively seeking qualified candidates for its Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme. This exciting opportunity is centered on the role of Programme Analyst in Green Finance for Youth Employment, based in Nairobi, Kenya.
About the Opportunity
Sponsored by the Government of Finland, the JPO position offers a two-year full-time assignment within IFAD’s East & Southern Africa Division. The selected candidate will join the Kenya Country Office team to support innovative projects aimed at fostering sustainable rural development and youth employment through green finance initiatives.
Organizational Context
IFAD’s mission revolves around investing in rural communities to boost agricultural productivity, increase incomes, and promote rural transformation. The Department for Country Operations (DCO), which oversees investment origination, design, and management, will be the primary workplace for the JPO. The Kenya Office operates as a vital hub, implementing projects and engaging with key stakeholders including governments, private sector entities, donors, and civil society.
Position Focus: Green Finance for Youth Employment (GFYE)
The GFYE project in Kenya is a flagship initiative, financed by Finland and executed by IFAD from 2024 to 2027. Its core goal is to generate decent green jobs for youth in rural Kenya by enhancing access to loan-based financing for green value chain projects. The JPO will play a crucial role in supporting project supervision, stakeholder coordination, and policy engagement, with a particular emphasis on youth and rural finance.
What the JPO Will Do
The successful candidate will assist in managing and overseeing the GFYE project, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and internal policies. Responsibilities include coordinating among project stakeholders, supporting partnership building—especially with Finnish private sector entities—and reviewing project planning and budgets. The JPO will also support capacity-building activities, aid in developing green financing products for youth entrepreneurs, and collaborate with Kenya’s National Treasury on innovative financial instruments like the “Youth Green Guarantee.”
Moreover, the role involves monitoring project progress, supporting the preparation of reports and supervision missions, and contributing to knowledge sharing through technical inputs, blogs, and presentations. The JPO will work closely with the Country Director and other IFAD staff, traveling frequently to rural areas across Kenya to provide on-the-ground support.
Who Should Apply
Candidates should possess an advanced university degree (Master’s equivalent) in fields such as agricultural economics, rural development, or environmental studies. A minimum of two years’ relevant experience in sustainable development, rural finance, project management, or private sector collaboration is required. Fluency in English is essential, and knowledge of Finnish or Swedish is advantageous.
Key Skills and Qualities
Successful applicants demonstrate strategic thinking, leadership, excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative spirit. Technical competencies include programme management, analytical skills, and familiarity with development policies, especially relating to rural finance and youth initiatives. Proficiency in MS Office and other relevant software is also valued.
Benefits of the Programme
Participation in the JPO Programme offers a unique opportunity to gain comprehensive exposure to international development operations, work with diverse stakeholders, and develop technical and managerial skills. The candidate will benefit from structured on-the-job training, mentorship, and opportunities to contribute to impactful projects that foster sustainable rural livelihoods.
Application Details
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline of August 1, 2025. The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with an assignment duration of two years.
This is an exceptional chance for aspiring development professionals eager to make a tangible difference in rural communities while gaining valuable international experience. For those passionate about green finance, youth employment, and rural development, the IFAD JPO Programme in Kenya offers a platform to grow and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability goals.
Learn more and apply here: [IFAD Careers Page]
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