Child Protection Officer Job Vacancy in Maseru, Lesotho – International Development
Job Description
Position: Child Protection Officer
Company: UNICEF
Location: Maseru, Lesotho
Experience: 3-5 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: International Development
Department: Child Protection
Salary: SSP 250,000 – SSP 350,000 per annum
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, works in over 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. In Lesotho, UNICEF partners with the government, civil society, and local communities to improve child health, education, and protection outcomes. The organization’s mission aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on reducing child mortality, ensuring quality education, and safeguarding children from violence and exploitation. As a leading international development agency, UNICEF brings global expertise, robust funding mechanisms, and a commitment to evidence‑based interventions, making it an ideal employer for professionals dedicated to making a lasting impact on children’s lives.
UNICEF’s presence in Maseru includes a regional office that coordinates programs across the nation, collaborating closely with the Ministry of Gender, Youth, Sports and Recreation. The office supports initiatives ranging from early childhood development to emergency response, ensuring that vulnerable children receive timely assistance. By joining UNICEF, you become part of a diverse, multicultural team that values innovation, accountability, and the empowerment of local stakeholders.
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Job Overview
The Child Protection Officer will lead and implement UNICEF’s child protection strategy in Lesotho, focusing on preventing abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This role involves designing community‑based interventions, strengthening legal frameworks, and building the capacity of local partners to respond effectively to child protection cases. You will work closely with government officials, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure that policies are child‑friendly and that services are accessible to the most vulnerable populations.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute comprehensive child protection programs aligned with UNICEF’s global standards.
- Conduct risk assessments and mapping of child protection concerns in target communities.
- Facilitate training workshops for social workers, teachers, health workers, and law enforcement on child safeguarding.
- Provide technical support to the Ministry of Gender, Youth, Sports and Recreation in drafting and revising child protection legislation.
- Monitor and evaluate program outcomes, preparing detailed reports for donors and senior management.
- Coordinate emergency response mechanisms for children affected by crises, including displacement and natural disasters.
- Advocate for child rights at local and national forums, ensuring community participation in solution design.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of international child protection frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with fluency in English and Sesotho.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with government agencies, NGOs, and community groups.
- Analytical mindset for data collection, analysis, and evidence‑based decision making.
- Project management expertise, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk mitigation.
- Cultural sensitivity and a commitment to gender‑responsive programming.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Rights, International Development, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Child Protection Specialist) is highly desirable.
Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of three to five years of professional experience in child protection, social services, or a comparable field within an international development context. Experience working in Lesotho or Southern Africa is an advantage.
Salary
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from SSP 250,000 to SSP 350,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional allowances for travel and professional development may apply.
Benefits
- Health insurance coverage for the employee.
- Paid annual leave and public holidays.
- Professional development opportunities, including access to UNICEF’s learning platforms.
- Supportive work environment that promotes work‑life balance.
- Opportunity to make a tangible impact on child welfare in Lesotho.
Training
- Orientation program covering UNICEF policies, child protection standards, and organizational culture.
- Ongoing capacity‑building workshops on monitoring & evaluation, advocacy, and gender‑responsive programming.
- Access to international conferences and webinars on child rights and protection.
Working Environment
The role is based in the UNICEF Maseru office, offering a collaborative open‑plan setting with modern facilities. Field visits to rural and urban communities are integral to the position, requiring occasional travel within Lesotho. The organization promotes a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace, adhering to the highest standards of staff welfare.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an online application through the UNICEF Careers portal, attaching a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Statement
UNICEF is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.
