Policy and Advocacy Mentee – Marine Programme . NGO Jobs In Kenya

Duration: 8 months
Type: Mentorship
Workstation: EAWLS Headquarters, Nairobi, with occasional field travel to coastal counties
Compensation: This is a paid internship

Introduction

The East African Wild Life Society (EAWLS) is seeking a passionate, self-driven, and highly motivated Policy and Advocacy Mentee to join our Marine Programme. This exciting opportunity is designed for early-career conservationists eager to gain hands-on experience in marine policy, blue carbon ecosystems, and environmental advocacy.

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About the Role

The mentee will support the review and update of the EAWLS Marine Strategy and contribute to the implementation of a PEW-funded project titled “Influencing Climate Change-related Policy for Blue Carbon Ecosystem Conservation and Management in Kenya.” This role involves policy research and analysis, stakeholder engagement, and supporting the coordination of a national Blue Carbon Working Group.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct literature reviews and desk-based research to support the review of the EAWLS Marine Strategy.
• Track and analyse trends, innovations, and best practices in marine conservation and blue carbon ecosystems to inform strategic planning.
• Review and assess relevant national, regional, and international laws, policies, and frameworks on marine and coastal ecosystem conservation.
• Draft high-quality policy briefs, reports, memoranda, and summaries identifying key gaps, opportunities, and recommendations for advocacy.
• Develop presentations and communication materials for stakeholder consultations, policy dialogues, and advocacy campaigns.
• Assist in organizing and executing project activities, including stakeholder meetings, workshops, field visits, and reporting.
• Create and maintain a stakeholder database for the marine sector.
• Provide logistical support for coordinating EAWLS marine working groups/forums, including minute-taking and follow-up on action items.
• Monitor international and regional policy developments, offering recommendations aligned with EAWLS’s marine conservation goals.
• Support the identification of funding opportunities and the development of grant proposals for marine initiatives.
• Prepare synthesis reports and policy digests for marine-related global policy events such as COP meetings.

Eligibility, Qualifications & Requirements

• A degree in Environmental Studies, Marine Science, Policy, Law, or a related discipline.
• A maximum of five years of paid experience in conservation.
• Must be a national of a non-high-income economy, as classified by the World Bank.
• Demonstrated interest and commitment to marine conservation and policy advocacy.
• Strong research, analytical, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to Kenya’s coastal counties (Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, and Kwale).

What You Will Gain

• Practical experience in marine conservation, policy, and project implementation.
• Exposure to policy and legal analysis, with a focus on frameworks such as Kenya’s NDCs.
• Improved research and analytical skills through literature reviews and gap assessments.
• Enhanced understanding of blue carbon ecosystems and their role in climate policy.
• Development of advocacy, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals in conservation and policy.
• A chance to contribute meaningfully to national and regional marine conservation efforts and gain insight into multi-stakeholder initiatives such as the Blue Carbon Working Group.

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How to Apply

Please send your application (CV and cover letter combined as a single PDF) to info@eawildlife.org by 30th April 2025, with the subject line: Policy and Advocacy Mentee – Marine Programme

NOTE: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis due to the urgency of filling this placement. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within two weeks after the application deadline, please consider your application unsuccessful.

EAWLS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.