Mission and objectivesUNDP works in about 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. It helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience to sustain development results. Present in Guinea-Bissau since the signature of the Cooperation Agreement with the Government of Guinea-Bissau on 29 June, 1975, immediately after the independence, UNDP focuses its interventions in the country in the support to democratic governance, sustainable, inclusive and resilient development, working for a future that offers equality, dignity and opportunities for all following the commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNDP is partnering with the Government of Guinea-Bissau, local and international NGOs, the sister UN agencies, Civil Society Organizations, private sector and local communities to identify local solutions to face global and national development challenges through access to methodology, knowledge sharing, consulting and wide network of technical international cooperation.
ContextIn Guinea-Bissau, the detrimental impact of transnational organized crime—particularly drug and human trafficking, along with associated crimes such as corruption and money laundering—has been acknowledged at the highest levels of government. Addressing these issues has become a national priority. The authorities have demonstrated a renewed commitment to combating drug trafficking and organized crime, recognizing their profound effects on the country’s development, stability, and the credibility and accountability of its institutions. In response, the United Nations has supported national authorities in building capacity to sustain peace by addressing conflict drivers that undermine social cohesion and could lead to violent conflict. To this end, UNDP, UNODC, IOM, and UNIOGBIS- Drug Trafficking and Transnational Organized Crime (CDTOC) have joined forces to deliver an integrated and coordinated approach. Through the joint project Strengthening the Justice and Security Sector Response to CDTOC, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund since December 2020, these agencies have worked to enhance Guinea-Bissau's capacity to address these critical issues. Following the successful completion of Phase 1, marked by tangible results and lessons learned, the project has been extended for an additional 30 months. During this second phase, UNDP and UNODC aim to further strengthen Guinea-Bissau's resilience to drug trafficking and transnational organized crime by bolstering law enforcement agencies and fostering community engagement. The initiative seeks to lay the foundations for sustainable peace and development in the country. The focus of Phase 2 will be on enhancing the capacities of criminal justice institutions and law enforcement agencies to effectively tackle drug trafficking and organized crime. This will involve an integrated approach that includes active collaboration with civil society organizations and communities. A community-based crime prevention model will be employed to prevent and deter drug trafficking, drug use, and associated crimes. The initiative will also prioritize building the technical capacities of both State and non-State actors to combat impunity, particularly in countering drug trafficking and organized crime. These efforts are integral to fostering a resilient, peaceful, accountable, transparent, inclusive, and just society. To ensure the effective implementation of these activities, UNDP Guinea-Bissau is seeking a UN Volunteer Project Manager, Rule of Law and Security. This role will oversee the execution of project components under UNDP’s mandate and facilitate coordination between national institutions and local civil society organizations.
Task DescriptionUnder the delegated authority and overall supervision of the Head of the Governance Team and the direct supervision of the UNDP Chief Technical Advisor for the Rule of Law, the UN Volunteer Project Manager, Rule of Law and Security will be an integral part of the project team embedded within the Judicial Reform Support Unit at the Ministry of Justice. The primary responsibilities will include: 1. Project Management • Oversee the daily implementation of project activities and outputs under UNDP's responsibility as outlined in the project document. • Maintain management oversight to ensure that project implementation aligns with planned results, timelines, and budgets. • Prepare Annual Work Plans (AWPs), mid-year reviews, and contribute to the drafting of annual and final narrative reports. • Monitor the timely execution of planned activities, assess progress, and ensure achievement of project targets. • Organize regular review meetings to track progress, inform stakeholders of project execution (both programmatic and financial), and coordinate revisions or corrective actions as needed. • Collaborate with Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) officers to ensure timely and continuous implementation of the project’s M&E plan, meeting UNDP standards. • Maintain updates in UNDP's corporate project management systems (e.g., Quantum). • Foster partnerships and ensure smooth implementation of all project activities, providing technical support where appropriate. • Identify and address challenges in project management, including delays, under-delivery, and financial planning gaps. • Provide support to national implementing partners for effective project delivery. 2. Knowledge Management • Develop and maintain an organized, auditable, and accessible repository of project records. • Capture lessons learned and best practices to generate knowledge outputs that can inform future initiatives. • Advise and support the development of communication strategies to position the project with national and international audiences. • Analyze emerging national policies and international strategies, including UN-system initiatives, to assess their implications for the project and advise UNDP management accordingly. • Actively promote a knowledge-sharing culture between the project and the Country Office. • Contribute to broader Country Office programming activities, particularly those related to human rights and governance. The UN Volunteer Project Manager will ensure that the project meets its objectives with respect to quality, budget, delivery timelines, and strategy. This role will also contribute to building national capacities, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and strengthening UNDP’s position as a leader in governance and rule of law initiatives.
Competencies and valuesProfessionalism: Demonstrates technical expertise and knowledge relevant to UNDP procedures and rules; exercises sound judgment and resourcefulness; shows a willingness to take on wide-ranging responsibilities and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Integrity: Upholds the values and ethical standards of the UN and UNDP in all actions and behaviors; acts without regard for personal gain and resists undue political pressure in decision-making; maintains transparency and accountability in all professional dealings. Teamwork and Respect for Diversity: Effectively collaborates across organizational boundaries; exhibits excellent interpersonal skills, building and sustaining strong partnerships and harmonious working relationships in a multicultural, multi-ethnic, and gender-diverse environment. Displays sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality, and age. Actively supports gender equality by promoting the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all UN operations. Commitment to Continuous Learning: Shows initiative and eagerness to acquire new skills and remain current on developments in the field of expertise. Demonstrates adaptability to changes in the work environment and a proactive approach to professional growth. Planning and Organizing: Possesses strong organizational and problem-solving abilities; effectively manages a high volume of work within tight deadlines, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of tasks. Communication: Exhibits excellent spoken and written communication skills; demonstrates the ability to produce clear, concise reports and engage effectively with staff, stakeholders, and local partners. Shows empathy and understanding in interpersonal interactions. Flexibility: Displays a readiness to adapt to changing conditions and undertake travel within the area of operations when required. Commitment to Voluntary Engagement: Embraces the principles of solidarity, compassion, reciprocity, and self-reliance in line with voluntary engagement. Upholds and supports UNDP’s mission, vision, and core values, including a genuine commitment to promoting sustainable development and peace.
Living conditions and remarksGuinea-Bissau is classified as a hardship E duty station, yet it is considered a family duty station. Limitations exist in education and healthcare services, and electricity cuts are frequent, even in the capital, Bissau. While supermarkets and restaurants are available, the working and living environment demands a high level of cultural awareness, flexibility, stamina, and commitment. Climate: Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate characterized by hot and humid conditions. The year is divided into two main seasons: Rainy Season: Mid-May to mid-November, with peak rainfall in July and August. Dry Season: Mid-November to mid-May, with December and January being the coolest months. Temperatures remain high throughout the year. Administrative Divisions: Guinea-Bissau is divided into eight regions: Bafatá, Biombo, Bolama/Bijagós, Cacheu, Gabú, Oio, Quinara, and Tombali, along with the Autonomous Sector of Bissau (the capital). The capital, Bissau, has over 400,000 inhabitants and is followed by other main cities like Bafatá, Gabú, Cantchungo, Farim, Catió, and Buba. Demographics: The population is estimated at 1.58 million (2009 census) with an annual growth rate of 2.2%. Approximately 43% of the population resides in urban areas. Guinea-Bissau is a multi-ethnic country with over 30 ethnic groups. Culturally, animists dominate coastal areas, while Muslims are prevalent in the eastern regions. Languages: Portuguese is the official language, while Creole is widely spoken by over 70% of the population. Other local languages include Balanta, Fula, Mandinga, Manjaco, Mancanhe, Papel, Biafada, Bijagó, and Felupe. Immigration and Health: • Entry Requirements: ECOWAS citizens do not require an entry visa. An international yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travelers. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Meningitis, and Tetanus are highly recommended. • Healthcare: Healthcare facilities are limited and basic. The UN operates a health center for primary care, and MEDEVAC procedures are in place. Utilities and Communications: • Electricity: While some areas of Bissau have nearly 24-hour electricity, others rely on generators. • Mobile Networks: MTN and Orange provide reliable mobile services. • Internet and Communications: The country code is +245, and communications infrastructure is functional. Currency and Banking: Guinea-Bissau is part of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), using the CFA Franc (XOF). Travelers must declare amounts exceeding 1,000,000 CFA upon entry or exit. Credit cards are generally not accepted, but banks and 24/7 ATMs are available. It is recommended to use authorized forex bureaus or banks for currency exchange. Working in Guinea-Bissau offers a unique and enriching experience but demands adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to work in challenging conditions.