Are you passionate about creating lasting health change in African communities? Do you desire to gain practical experience working on transformative health initiatives? Amref Health Africa invites dynamic, self-driven, and passionate graduates to apply for the Intern – WHEEL Project position based in Malindi, Kenya.
This opportunity offers a rare chance to contribute to sustainable Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions across vulnerable public primary schools and communities in Kilifi County, while gaining valuable hands-on experience in public health programming.
About Amref Health Africa
Established in 1957, Amref Health Africa has grown into the largest Africa-based international health development organization. With a staff of over 2,000 and programs spanning 35 countries, Amref is committed to lasting health change in Africa through community-led and people-centred health systems. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, Amref implements more than 180 programs reaching over 40 million people across the continent. It maintains 10 country offices in Africa and 11 advocacy and fundraising offices across Europe and North America.
At the heart of Amref’s mission is a belief that empowered communities hold the key to sustainable health systems. The WHEEL Project is one of the many initiatives embodying this mission, aiming to deliver effective WASH interventions that promote preventive and promotive health practices.
Position: Intern – WHEEL Project
Location: Malindi, Kenya
Opportunity Type: Internship
Reporting To: Project Officer
Application Deadline: Friday, 18th April 2025
Main Purpose of the Role
The intern will support the implementation of sustainable WASH interventions in selected schools and communities within Kilifi County. The role is critical in promoting health outcomes through innovative health promotion strategies while gaining mentorship and practical field experience.
Key Responsibilities
Under the guidance of the Project Officer and in collaboration with the Project Associate, the Intern will undertake the following duties:
1. Community Health
- Assist in selecting community wells and performing longitudinal water quality testing.
- Support the training of Water Management Committees for better governance and maintenance of water sources.
- Facilitate community dialogue sessions in the targeted villages to promote health and sanitation awareness.
2. School Health Promotion in Targeted Schools
- Support behaviour change communication initiatives in selected schools.
- Assist in the training of school Boards of Management (BoMs) on WASH principles and school health promotion.
- Explore and apply innovative behaviour change strategies as recommended by the WHEEL Project model.
- Participate in mapping out the WASH needs of each school.
- Work closely with school leaders and stakeholders to ensure ownership and sustainability of interventions.
3. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Participate in needs assessments and help identify beneficiary schools.
- Take the lead in conducting longitudinal water quality testing in project areas.
- Perform regular monitoring visits to schools to assess implementation progress and gather feedback.
4. Community Mobilization
- Collaborate with community members and leaders during the planning and execution of project activities.
- Support the organization and facilitation of WASH training sessions for various community groups.
5. Additional Tasks
- Provide support for other project, departmental, and organizational activities as needed.
- Embrace professional growth opportunities and demonstrate adaptability in handling new responsibilities.
Environmental Context and Working Conditions
- Socio-cultural Familiarity: The intern must understand and be sensitive to the unique socio-cultural dynamics of coastal communities in Kenya to implement interventions effectively.
- Work Environment: While the main base is a normal office setting, the intern should expect frequent fieldwork in hot and sunny conditions across Kilifi County.
- Work Hours: Flexibility is required, as the role may demand working outside normal business hours under special circumstances.
Candidate Profile
To thrive in this role, candidates should demonstrate the following attributes:
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with communities respectfully and effectively.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- A high level of versatility, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing situations.
- Good organizational and time management abilities.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
- A self-motivated and proactive approach to work.
Educational Background and Experience
- A Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Community Health, or a related field.
- Applicants must not have more than one year of work experience, making this role ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals seeking field exposure.
Why Join Amref Health Africa?
- You will be part of a mission-driven organization that believes in community empowerment and long-term health change.
- Gain exposure to real-world implementation of health strategies in underserved communities.
- Build your career and skills in a supportive environment where your contribution matters.
- Be mentored by experienced professionals and network with likeminded peers across the health development space.
How to Apply
If you are eager to contribute to transformative health solutions and believe you meet the criteria for this role, submit your application including:
- A cover letter detailing why you are the best fit for this position.
- A comprehensive CV highlighting your education, skills, and relevant experience.
Deadline for Applications: Friday, 18th April 2025
Apply Now on Amref Health Africa’s official website under the Vacancies page.
Important Notice
Amref Health Africa does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and has not engaged any recruitment agent. Always verify that communication is from an official @amref.org email address.
Amref Health Africa is committed to protecting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. The organization promotes diversity, practices equal opportunity hiring, and maintains a non-smoking environment.
