UNDP / Published Jun 23, 2026

Climate Resilience Specialist

On-site13. Climate action

Location: Rwanda; Kigali
Duration: 365 days; Possible extension
Deadline: Jul 19, 2026; 4 days left
Assignments: 1; available position(s)
Expected start: Sep 12, 2026
Volunteer category: Specialist UCoS from Apr2026; International

Sustainable Development Goal

13. Climate action

Assignment

What the volunteer will do

Mission and objectives

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

Positioned within the Sustainable Energy, Environment and Climate Change (SEEDCC) Unit, strengthening resilience in the agricultural sector is central to achieving Rwanda’s updated national climate commitments. As a key pillar of the economy and a primary source of livelihoods, agriculture remains highly vulnerable to climate variability and shocks. Transforming the sector through climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is therefore essential to sustain economic growth, reduce poverty, and ensure long-term food security. The UN Volunteer will serve as a technical expert and key catalyst for this transformation, dedicated specifically to bridging the financing gap for agricultural adaptation. The core mandate of this role is to translate broad climate resilience strategies into structured, bankable CSA projects. By actively engaging stakeholders and aggressively pursuing climate finance, from vertical funds (e.g. Adaptation Fund), bilateral donors, and private sector investors, the Specialist will mobilize the critical resources needed to scale up nature-positive agricultural practices, promote green value chains, and build the resilience of vulnerable farming communities.

Task description

Under the direct supervision of the Head of SEEDCC, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: - Drive Resource Mobilization for CSA: Lead the drafting of high-quality funding proposals, concept notes, and investment pitches specifically targeting climate finance for climate-smart agriculture and sustainable land management. - Develop Bankable Projects: Identify and structure green financing opportunities and de-risking mechanisms to attract private sector investment into climate-resilient agricultural value chains. - Technical Design: Provide technical inputs into the design and implementation of CSA interventions (e.g., agroforestry, drought-resistant varieties, climate information services, efficient irrigation). - Donor & Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate strategic partnerships with key stakeholders (such as Ministry of Agriculture, environment agencies, agri-businesses, and development partners) to leverage co-financing for CSA. - Impact Reporting: Monitor the impact of agricultural resilience projects and prepare compelling donor reports that demonstrate the return on investment in CSA.

Requirements

Eligibility and qualifications

Age: 18 - 80
Required experience: 3 years
Education: Bachelor's degree
Nationality: Open to all nationalities

Languages

EnglishRequired

Fluent

Areas of expertise

Natural resources managementFinance, accountingClimate change, environment

Skills and experience

Demonstrated experience in - Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) Implementation: Proven track record in designing, man-aging, or providing technical advisory for CSA interventions, such as agroforestry, drought-resilient crop varieties, sustainable land management, and agricultural water management. - Resource Mobilization & Climate Finance: Demonstrable success in securing climate fi-nance. Experience drafting high-quality, successful funding proposals for vertical funds (e.g., Green Climate Fund, Global Environment Facility), bilateral donors, or private sector agricultural investments. - Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working directly with ministries of agricul-ture/environment, agri-businesses, and farming communities to integrate climate risk as-sessments into agricultural planning and practices. - Project Pipeline Development: Experience translating broad climate adaptation concepts into structured, bankable projects or investment pitches within the agricultural value chain. Skills in: - Advanced Grant Writing: Exceptional proposal writing, logical framework design, and donor pitching skills tailored specifically for climate and environmental finance. - Technical Agricultural/Climate Analysis: Ability to analyze agricultural climate risks, assess vulnerability, and design appropriate technical mitigation and adaptation re-sponses. - Partnership Building & Negotiation: Strong interpersonal skills to cultivate relationships with a diverse range of donors, private sector investors, and government counterparts. - Impact Reporting: Strong analytical skills for tracking project metrics, assessing the socio-economic impacts of CSA interventions, and developing compelling donor re-ports.

Competencies and values

☒ Accountability ☒Adaptability and Flexibility ☒Commitment and Motivation ☒Communication ☒Ethics and Values ☒Integrity ☒Planning and Organizing ☒Professionalism ☒Respect for Diversity ☒Self-Management ☒Working in Teams

Notes

Additional information

Living conditions and remarks

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

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. UNV is committed to diversity, human rights, and individual dignity.

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