Program Officer: UM2026/08330/PRET

The Embassy invites applications for the position of Program Officer within the development cooperation section, with a thematic focus on SRHR in Africa. The positions contribute directly to the implementation of Sweden´s Regional SRHR strategy in Africa 2022-2026, promoting human rights, democracy, gender equality, and equitable access to health and SRHR.  

The development cooperation section operates with both a thematic and regional scope, engaging closely with implementing partners across the continent, other Swedish missions in Africa, and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). 

We seek a candidate who demonstrate collaborative abilities and build and maintain constructive professional. The successful candidates will be expected to work independently, take initiative, and drive processes forward. Excellent communication skills, adaptability, and a solutions-oriented mindset are essential. The position entails regular travel within the region.

Sweden uses the Guttmacher Lancet definition of SRHR, covering a comprehensive spectrum of rights and services, including sexuality education, safe abortion and engagement with marginalised groups such as LGBTQI persons and sex workers. Applicants must be fully comfortable working within this broad and rights-based framework.

Roles and Responsibilities:

· Manage and follow-up of development cooperation contribution

· Engage in policy dialogue at sector and contribution levels, promoting commitments grounded in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and regional African human rights frameworks

· Provide technical input and guidance on SRHR within development cooperation, fostering learning internally and externally

· Contribute to portfolio analysis, operational planning, implementation, follow-up, and reporting under the Regional SRHR strategy

· Actively participate in Sida´s thematic networks

Requirements:

· Master´s degree in a relevant field

· Minimum of three years of professional experience with an embassy or international organization

· Minimum of three years of experience working with SRHR

· Demonstrated knowledge of SRHR and development cooperation

· Excellent command of English

· Strong administrative skills and experience in conducting policy dialogue

In addition, candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

a) Very good knowledge of French, or

b) Experience in communication and social media

Merits:

- Experience working in the region

- Knowledge of additional languages such as Swedish, French, Portuguese or other

Personal Qualifications:

- Ability and willingness to adopt innovative ways of working, while upholding the standards, ethics, and responsibilities of the Swedish civil service

- Capability to achieve and report on agreed results and to proactively seek support where necessary

- Leadership qualities enabling constructive influence and knowledge dissemination among colleagues

- Commit to sharing information and expertise within the team

- Ability to manage and prioritize tasks effectively under pressure 

Application Details:

· Applicants must be South African citizens or hold Permanent Residence

· A clean criminal record is required

· Security clearance by Swedish authorities will be conducted, based on a South African police clearance

· Successful candidates will embody Embassy core values of equality, tolerance, and openness

Employment Details:

· Application deadline 29th of March, 2026

· Starting date: As soon as possible

· Application submission: send a motivational letter (max one page) and CV to ambassaden.pretoria-bistand@gov.se

For any questions related to the position please send an e-mail to Ambassaden.pretoria-bistand@gov.se