Latest Government Jobs in Kenya - NDMA


National Drought Management Authority

Job Descriptions

The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) is a State Corporation, created by Legal Notice No. 171 of 24th November 2011, under the Ministry of State for Development of Northern Kenya and other Arid Lands, with the mandate of providing leadership and coordination on all matters relating to drought management. 

The NDMA Board of Directors intends to fill the following positions


Drought Resilience Manager

Reporting to the Director, Technical Services, the Drought Resilience Manager will lead and coordinate efforts to strengthen drought resilience in Kenya, working within the framework of the Ending Drought Emergencies strategy.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Monitor implementation of the Ending Drought Emergencies strategy in collaboration with the Directorate of Planning, Policy and Research and, in partnership with other institutions such as the ASAL Secretariat, promote the implementation of strategic development interventions that enhance resilience to drought and climate change.
  • In partnership with relevant stakeholders, develop and implement a strategy to ensure that drought management and climate change adaptation are mainstreamed into development planning and resource allocation at both national and county levels.
  • Develop and implement a strategy for continuous capacity development of county and national planners in mainstreaming drought management and climate change adaptation, through the provision of training, the development of manuals and guidelines, or other measures.
  • Support the design and delivery of the Authority’s knowledge management function. In particular, work with the Directorate of Planning, Policy and Research to build a strong evidence base to justify investments in drought resilience.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in range and range related sciences, environmental management sciences, livestock and livestock related sciences, agriculture, social sciences or other related field. Preference will be given to individuals with additional academic qualifications related to drought and disaster risk management, community development, rural development, or food security. Applicants with a Masters degree in a relevant field will have an added advantage
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of three years spent in a senior position. Applicants must have experience of managing development activities in drought-affected areas.
  • Experience of working with donor and governmental agencies is essential.
  • Deep and direct understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Planning and Policy Manager

Reporting to the Director, Planning, Policy and Research, the Planning and Policy Manager will lead policy formulation for drought management in Kenya, and policy and planning processes within the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Initiate the formulation of national policy on drought management, and work with other parts of Government to ensure that sector policies integrate the Government’s commitment to strengthen resilience to drought and climate change.
  • Monitor implementation of the Ending Drought Emergencies strategy in collaboration with the Directorate of Technical Services and, in partnership with other institutions such as the ASAL Secretariat, promote the implementation of strategic development interventions that enhance resilience to drought and climate change.
  • Develop and support a national strategic framework that facilitates harmonized planning, implementation and evaluation by both state and non-state actors of progress, financing and resource mobilization for the national drought management response.
  • In collaboration with the Directorate of Technical Services, draft policies, guidelines and procedures governing the Authority’s operations, for approval by the Board.
  • Coordinate the formulation, monitoring and review of the Authority’s strategic plans and work plans, and provide information and reports on the same to relevant organisations and stakeholders.
  • Coordinate the formulation, monitoring and review of the Authority’s Performance Contract.
  • In collaboration with the Finance Manager, coordinate the formulation, monitoring and review of the Authority’s budgets.
  • In collaboration with the ICT Manager, establish and maintain the Authority’s Management Information System.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in policy analysis and planning, economics, knowledge management, statistics, development studies or related field
  • Relevant working experience of at least 12 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position. Applicants must have experience of managing policy and planning processes.
  • Experience of working with donor and governmental agencies is essential.
  • Deep and direct understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Research Manager

Reporting to the Director, Planning, Policy and Research, the Research Manager will lead the Authority’s work on learning and knowledge management.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Initiate the formulation of a knowledge management strategy for the Authority, and develop mechanisms which will equip it to serve as the primary source of best practice and institutional learning on drought management and climate change adaptation in Kenya.
  • As part of the above, plan, design, commission and coordinate research studies and surveys on subjects relevant to the Authority’s mandate.
  • Ensure that the Authority has access to the latest specialist knowledge and experience in areas relevant to its mandate.
  • Identify, document and disseminate best practice in strengthening resilience to drought and climate change, including evidence of the advantages of preventive programming.
  • Specifically, develop and maintain a knowledge bank on drought management and climate change adaptation which is easily accessible to stakeholders both inside and outside Government.
  • Develop and implement systems and procedures which ensure that the Authority learns from its practice and adjusts its performance accordingly.
  • Research new opportunities, either domestically or internationally, to assist the country’s performance in strengthening resilience to drought and climate change.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in economics, development planning and policy, research methods, or other related field. Preference will be given to individuals with additional academic qualifications related to drought and disaster risk management, community development, rural development, or food security.
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position. Applicants must have experience of designing and managing research and knowledge management processes.
  • Experience of working with donor and governmental agencies is essential.
  • Informed understanding of national development policies and priorities and the ability to translate these into opportunities for building resilience to drought and climate change.
  • Deep and direct understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Finance and Accounts Manager

Reporting to the Director, Support Services, the Finance and Accounts Manager will ensure sound financial management and accounting systems across the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Interpret, advise on and apply financial policies, and ensure that sound accounting principles and controls are applied to all financial transactions in the Authority.
  • Establish an efficient and effective accounting system in line with accounting procedures.
  • Coordinate the formulation, implementation and review of the Authority’s financial plans.
  • Prepare the Authority’s annual budget, monitor expenditure and performance against budget, enforce budgetary controls, and prepare timely financial returns and reports as required.
  • Develop, implement and review the Authority’s internal controls and procedures to ensure the efficient management of its assets.
  • Ensure that proper books of accounts are kept in accordance with reporting standards and applicable laws and regulations.
  • Establish and maintain a sound computerized accounting and financial management system.
  • Provide regular, timely and accurate financial information for decision-making.
  • Ensure the timely submission of statutory returns.
  • Authorise and monitor the disbursement of funds and payments to suppliers.
  • Prepare cash flow and manage the Authority’s bank accounts.
  • Oversee the maintenance of the fixed assets register and ensure its accuracy and completeness.
  • Liaise with the Audit Manager and facilitate the agreed annual audit plan.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in business administration, commerce (Accounting option) or economics.
  • CPA (K) or ACCA or any other relevant and equivalent professional qualification from a recognized institution.
  • Knowledge of Government of Kenya financial, accounting and procurement procedures.
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position in a large organisation.
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Human Resources and Administration Manager

Reporting to the Director, Support Services, the Human Resources and Administration Manager will be responsible for the day to day management and administration of the human resources and administration functions of the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Establish and manage professional human resource and administration systems.
  • Plan, organize, monitor and report on the activities of the Human Resources and Administration Department.
  • Coordinate the implementation of human resource management policies, rules and regulations within the Authority.
  • Advise management on the proper deployment of staff, staff performance, career progression and welfare.
  • Advise management and staff on matters relating to career development, employee relations, workplace ethics, discipline and the handling of grievances/complaints.
  • Make appropriate recommendations concerning human resource planning and succession management.
  • Oversee payroll preparation and ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
  • Manage and update the Government Human Resources Information System (GHRIS), and ensure the safe custody of all records, including e-records.
  • Coordinate staff training needs assessments and develop annual staff training plans.
  • Coordinate the provision of high-quality support services to the Authority, including transport, logistics and security.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in business administration or human resource management.
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position in a large organisation.
  • Working knowledge of the Kenyan labour laws.
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
ICT Manager

Reporting to the Director, Support Services, the ICT Manager will ensure the provision of professional ICT services to the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Provide policy direction on the development and use of ICT systems, and advise the Authority’s Board, management and staff on all ICT-related issues.
  • Develop, implement and monitor an ICT policy and related strategies, which enhance achievement of the Authority’s mandate and drive a culture of innovation in providing ICT solutions to organizational challenges.
  • Develop ICT standards in the Authority and monitor adherence to those standards.
  • Carry out analysis of system requirements in consultation with relevant stakeholders, and recommend network infrastructure, ICT equipment and software specification for use by the Authority.
  • Ensure the functionality of the Authority’s websites, portals, LANs, WANs, intranet and internet infrastructure, including in the county offices.
  • Develop and monitor ICT training programmes for the Authority’s staff and core partners.
  • Safeguard the integrity of the Authority’s electronic data, regularly upgrade and protect systems, and ensure effective mechanisms of data recovery. Minimise downtimes by ensuring that that the Authority’s network and systems have guaranteed business continuity and active maintenance plans.
  • Coordinate and manage ICT vendors to ensure the delivery of ICT projects on time and within budget.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in computer science.
  • Certification from relevant recognized professional bodies, including CCNA, MCSE, and MCSA.
  • Certification in systems development and database administration will be an added advantage.
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position in a large organisation. Applicants must have experience of ICT infrastructure design and management, including network management, and systems administration.
  • Proficiency in cutting-edge computer technologies, programming, database management systems, and the use of GIS applications.
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Audit Manager

Reporting to the Board of the Authority on functional matters, and to the Chief Executive Officer on administrative matters, the Audit Manager will monitor the Authority’s compliance with relevant policies, regulations and standards.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Carry out independent assessments of compliance with the Authority’s policies, procedures and regulations.
  • Ensure adequate internal controls and audit management systems in accordance with Government procedure and international auditing standards.
  • Carry out technical audits of programmes and projects to assure the effectiveness of internal control systems, and prepare audit reports for review by external auditors.
  • Carry out audits of the Authority’s assets and accounting systems to assess their efficiency  and effectiveness, and compare the records with the physical assets.
  • Audit all payments made by the Authority to ensure compliance with budgetary provisions, polices and procedures.
  • Supervise risk assessment exercises and ensure implementation of the Authority’s Risk Management Policies and Procedures.
  • Verify the Authority’s statutory reports.
  • Assist in the preparation of responses to the Public Investment Committee and monitor implementation of their recommendations.
  • Provide secretarial services to the Audit and Risk Management Committee of the Board, and follow up implementation of their decisions.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in commerce (accounting/finance option) or other related field.
  • Registered member of the Institute of Internal Auditors, Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (CPAK), ACCA, or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position.
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Legal Services Manager

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Legal Officer will provide professional legal services to the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Advise the Board of Directors and management of the Authority on all legal and regulatory matters that may arise in the operations of the Authority.
  • Advise the Board of Directors and management of the Authority on matters of corporate governance.
  • Advise the Board of Directors and management of the Authority on procedures and legal requirements concerning property management, staff discipline, and any other matters that may attract litigation.
  • Monitor and ensure the Authority’s compliance with the legal regulatory framework.
  • Prepare and review contracts, memoranda of understanding and other legal documents.
  • Carry out research and prepare legal opinions on matters relating to the legal notice and the mandate of the Authority.
  • Draft legislative regulations and guidelines to facilitate implementation of the National Drought Management Authority Act (when enacted).
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Masters degree from a recognized university in law. Must be an advocate of the High Court of Kenya
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position. Applicants must have experience of working as a legal adviser in a large organisation. Practical experience in areas of law relevant to the work of the Authority (such as land, environmental management, and international climate frameworks) will be an added advantage.
  • Holder of a current practicing certificate
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Media And Public Relations Manager

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Media and Public Relations Manager will provide professional communications services to the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Develop and implement the Authority’s public communications and media relations strategy.
  • Increase awareness among stakeholders and the general public on all aspects of the Authority’s work. In particular, liaise proactively with the media to highlight the Authority’s work.
  • Coordinate the Authority’s protocol functions and other public events.
  • Institute measures to protect and enhance the Authority’s brand.
  • Ensure the secure and efficient management of the Authority’s contact information.
  • Ensure the secure and efficient management of the Authority’s communication assets, such as photographic and video material.
  • Establish mechanisms to obtain feedback from stakeholders on the Authority’s public communication materials, and revise them accordingly.
  • Provide feedback to queries from stakeholders within the parameters of the Authority’s service delivery agreement.
  • As the public face of the Authority, at all times exercise good judgment in written and verbal expression, style, and tone.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Masters degree from a recognized university in communications, journalism, public relations or other related field, and a postgraduate diploma in journalism and public relations.
  • Registered member of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK).
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position in a large organisation. Applicants must have experience of managing media and public relations activities.
  • Deep and direct understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Supply Chain Manager

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Supply Chain Manager will provide professional procurement services to the Authority.

Core duties and responsibilities
  • Manage the supply chain management function, which includes the procurement of goods, works and services, the disposal of obsolete, unserviceable and surplus stores, and inventory and contract management.
  • Coordinate the internal monitoring and evaluation of the supply chain function to ensure compliance with Public Procurement laws, regulations and practices.
  • Develop, facilitate, implement, and review annual procurement plans.
  • Undertake contract negotiation and management in conjunction with the respective user departments.
  • Coordinate and provide a secretariat for the preparation of tenders for advertisement, opening and evaluation.
  • Prepare and submit to the Public Procurement Oversight Authority quarterly procurement reports as required.
  • Advise staff on all matters concerning the procurement of goods and services in line with the provisions of the relevant laws and regulations.
  • Any other responsibilities as may be necessary to achieve the Authority’s objectives.
Minimum qualifications and experience
  • Bachelors degree from a recognized university in commerce, economics, supplies management or other related field, and a postgraduate diploma in purchasing and supply management.
  • Registered member of the Kenya Institute of Supply Management (KISM).
  • Relevant working experience of at least 10 years, with a minimum of four years spent in a senior position in a large organisation. Applicants must have experience of managing procurement processes.
  • Knowledge of the Public Procurement and Oversight Act and Regulations.
  • Understanding of the unique characteristics of the arid and semi-arid lands, and specifically the pastoralist areas, and their challenges and development opportunities.
  • Proven leadership qualities, problem-solving and negotiation skills, and evidence of being a strong team player.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong IT skills, analytical and report-writing skills.
  • Personal qualities of leadership and integrity consistent with the principles of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
 Candidates fulfilling the above requirements should submit their applications together with a detailed curriculum vitae, and copies of their academic and professional certificates. 

All applicants are also expected to provide postal, telephone and email contacts of three referees’ two of whom must have known the applicant from a work environment.

All applications with positions and reference numbers clearly indicated on the envelope should be sent to the address below by registered mail, hand delivery or by courier on or before 27th September 2012.

The Chairman
Board of Directors
National Drought Management Authority (NDMA)
P O Box 53547-00200
Kenyatta International Conference Centre, 17th floor, Door No 1710
Harambee Avenue
NAIROBI