Project Coordinator- Islam and FoRB – based in Nairobi, Kampala or other FCA office

The Joint Initiative for Strategic Religious Action (JISRA) is a partnership of 50 civil society organisations based in Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria and Uganda. This international, interreligious partnership is implementing a five-year programme to further peaceful and just societies where all enjoy Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB).

JISRA stimulates positive forces within and between religious communities for more peaceful and inclusive societies. JISRA leverages the constructive role of religious actors. This programme addresses harmful norms and narratives within religious communities, stimulates cooperation between religions and shows that different religious traditions can come together in a common vision for a better and fairer society. JISRA pays special attention to increasing the role of women and youth in setting the vision and solutions to advancing FoRB and promoting youth and women’s participation in decision-making fora. Rooted in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on Freedom of Religion and Belief, JISRA contributes to SDG16 and SDG5.

The Network will lead on and contribute to the following within the JISRA project:

– Strengthen capacity and leverage of the Muslim partners in the target countries, especially in the field of Islam and pluralism, Islam and FoRB, faith literacy, the Marrakesh declaration and strengthened networks.

– Engage in international policy arenas on FoRB, in particular related to Islam and FoRB.

– Ensure Muslim inclusive JISRA governance within the JISRA consortium.

Primary purpose of the position:

To lead the implementation of the Network’s activities related to the Dutch MoFA funded Joint Initiative for Religious Action (JISRA) global project in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Mali, Uganda, Iraq, and Indonesia (100%).

Main tasks:

• Lead the implementation of the Network’s activities as part of the JISRA project and advise JISRA consortium members and its local partners on issues of Muslim faith-literacy, Islam and pluralism, and Islam and FoRB.
• Lead the management of the Network’s responsibilities within the JISRA project including monitoring and reporting activities according to donor guidelines.
• Liaise and coordinate with other JISRA consortium members and JISRA governance bodies to align and coordinate strategies and activities.
• Facilitate a Community of Practice (CoP) for JISRA partners, provide capacity support and ensure their representation in relevant national and international forums.
• Represent the Network and participate in the JISRA global working groups.
• Ensure that FCA policies and guidelines are followed and oversee financial, contractual and procurement processes for the project.
• Contribute to the advancement of the Network’s strategy on FoRB-related issues.

Competence and Personal Requirements:

• MA degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, Theology, Islamic Studies, or Islamic Jurisprudence (Usul- al-Fiqh).
• At least 5 years of professional related experience with previous manager/advisor level experience.
• Strong capacity of inter and intra religious literacy and religious interpretation of conflict, especially in relation to Islam.
• Strong thematic expertise and experience in peace building and conflict transformation and working in conflict-torn environments.
• Well demonstrated capacity to work through intra- and interfaith processes.
• Experience in high-level advocacy work internationally.
• Strong experience in programme and project management and development.
• Experience in managing/recruiting/inducting staff, team leadership and acting in leadership positions in international settings.
• Strong experience in finance and administration of projects and global programs.
• Fluent in oral and written English. Working knowledge of Arabic or French is an asset.
• Excellent communication, inter-personal and negotiating skills and experience in working in multi-cultural/ religious environments.
• Ability to meet deadlines under pressure.

The fixed-term contract for this position will be made up until December 2025 with six months’ probation period, starting 1st of February 2024 or as soon as possible. The compensation is based on FCA Compensation System and depends on prior work experience. The position is based in Nairobi, Kampala or in another FCA office.

For more information please contact Matthias Wevelsiep matthias.wevelsiep(at)kirkonulkomaanapu.fi. Please apply by using the link no later than 22th December 2023. The applications will be reviewed immediately upon arrival and candidates will be approached for interview on a progressive basis.

Finn Church Aid (FCA) is Finland’s largest development co-operation organisation and the second biggest organisation in Finland working in humanitarian aid. FCA is a founding member of the international aid alliance of churches, the ACT Alliance. We seek positive change by supporting the most vulnerable people in fragile contexts. We specialize in supporting local communities’ right to peace, livelihoods and quality education. Qualified and interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion or ethnic affiliation are encouraged to apply for the vacancy.

FCA hosts the Secretariat of the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers (Network), a global network that brings together actors to provide support for grassroots to international peacemaking and peacebuilding efforts. The activities of the Network involve currently over 100 member organisations around the globe. The Network Secretariat consists of approximately 20 staff members that work in four different continents.

FCA practices zero tolerance on sexual exploitation and abuse, including child abuse in all forms. FCA has zero tolerance concerning aid diversion and illegal actions, and may screen applicants against international lists to ensure due diligence and compliance with Anti-money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism requirements.

FCA is certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability (CHS).