Are you a passionate graduate or young professional with a strong interest in humanitarian work, protection, gender equality, and child rights? Are you looking for a unique opportunity to work with the world’s largest humanitarian network? The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is offering an exciting internship position in Nairobi, Kenya for a committed and motivated individual to join as an Intern in Protection, Gender, and Inclusion (PGI).
This is an exceptional chance to gain valuable experience in a global humanitarian organization that works tirelessly to improve the lives of vulnerable populations before, during, and after crises. This three-month internship will place you at the heart of IFRC’s PGI efforts across the Africa region, particularly in supporting projects that protect children affected by armed conflict.
If you are values-driven, collaborative, and eager to contribute to meaningful humanitarian programming, read on to learn more about this opportunity and how you can be part of the IFRC’s mission to alleviate human suffering and promote peace, dignity, and inclusion.
About the Organization
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, comprising 191 National Societies and a robust Secretariat. It works in partnership with member National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with five regional offices around the world, including Africa, the IFRC coordinates international assistance following disasters and health emergencies, supports long-term development programming, and promotes humanitarian principles.
The core principles guiding the work of the IFRC include humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. Through its regional and country offices, the IFRC provides strategic guidance and support to National Societies in areas such as disaster management, health and care, climate action, youth engagement, and Protection, Gender and Inclusion (PGI).
The IFRC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, abuse of authority, discrimination, and financial misconduct. The organization is also strongly committed to child safeguarding principles and inclusive, respectful work environments.
Position Summary
Position Title: Intern, Protection, Gender and Inclusion
Vacancy No.: S15148
Contract Type: Internship
Position Type: Intern
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: 3 Months
Grade: Internship, Not Applicable
Application Deadline: 13 August 2025
Posting Date: 29 July 2025
The PGI Intern will be based at the IFRC Africa Regional Office in Nairobi and will provide essential support to ongoing Protection, Gender and Inclusion initiatives. The role focuses on projects that aim to protect and empower vulnerable groups, with a special emphasis on the Children Affected by Armed Conflict (CAAC) initiative being implemented in several African countries.
Position Overview: Intern, Protection, Gender and Inclusion
Job Purpose
The Intern, Protection, Gender and Inclusion (PGI) will work closely with the regional PGI team to support the implementation, monitoring, and documentation of various PGI initiatives. A key area of focus will be the Children Affected by Armed Conflict (CAAC) project in countries such as Uganda, Nigeria, Gambia, Chad, Central African Republic (CAR), and Sudan.
The internship provides hands-on exposure to regional programming, safeguarding efforts, and the strengthening of institutional capacities within National Societies across Africa. The PGI Intern will also be actively involved in documentation, reporting, training, and communication tasks that contribute to broader humanitarian goals.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The PGI Intern will take on a variety of responsibilities that support the effective delivery of protection, gender, and inclusion activities across the region. These responsibilities include:
- Project Coordination and Monitoring
- Assist in coordinating PGI project activities across the region, including those related to children affected by armed conflict (CAAC).
- Support regular monitoring and follow-up of PGI project implementation in Uganda, Nigeria, Gambia, Chad, CAR, and Sudan.
- Contribute to the compilation and analysis of reports from National Societies to identify trends, achievements, and areas needing improvement.
- Documentation and Knowledge Sharing
- Support the preparation of progress reports, human interest stories, case studies, and other learning materials that promote visibility and knowledge exchange.
- Assist in the development of learning and visibility tools that highlight the impact of PGI initiatives on communities and vulnerable populations.
- Ensure effective archiving of key project documents and contribute to the PGI team’s knowledge management efforts.
- Support for Trainings and Events
- Assist in planning and organizing virtual and in-person trainings, workshops, consultations, and PGI-related events.
- Help coordinate logistics, communication with participants, and preparation of relevant materials for events.
- Provide administrative support during events, including note-taking and post-event reporting.
- Data Management and Analysis
- Maintain and update PGI project databases and dashboards, ensuring accurate and timely data input.
- Support the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data to inform programming and advocacy efforts.
- Contribute to evidence-based planning by identifying key findings and lessons learned from project data.
- Safeguarding and Inclusion
- Support the integration of child safeguarding, gender equality, and protection principles in all project activities.
- Contribute to IFRC’s regional safeguarding initiatives, including training and awareness-raising sessions.
- Promote PGI standards and tools across National Societies to ensure inclusive and safe programming.
- Organizational Contribution
- Work actively towards the achievement of IFRC’s strategic and operational goals.
- Abide by and promote adherence to the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s fundamental principles.
- Perform any other related duties as assigned by the line manager or PGI Advisor.
Educational Requirements
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in International Relations, Gender Studies, Humanitarian Affairs, Social Work, or a related field is required.
Experience and Exposure
- Demonstrated interest in protection, gender, child rights, or humanitarian programming is required.
- Prior experience in data management, documentation, and reporting is essential.
- Experience working with or engaging communities, especially on child-focused programming, is highly desirable.
- An understanding of humanitarian operations and programming frameworks, particularly in relation to gender and protection, will be considered an asset.
Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes
- Familiarity with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, including its principles and structure.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trusted relationships across diverse stakeholders.
- Values-driven with a strong sense of integrity and professionalism.
- Organized and autonomous, capable of making decisions under pressure and maintaining composure in high-stress environments.
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate data into actionable recommendations.
- Excellent communication and advocacy skills, capable of tailoring messages to influence and engage different audiences.
- Commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and integration of lessons learned into PGI programming.
- High level of comfort working in multicultural, multi-country environments.
- Fluency in spoken and written English is essential.
Competencies and Values
The selected candidate is expected to demonstrate the following core competencies and uphold the values of the IFRC:
- Core Competencies:
- Communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Judgement and decision-making
- National society and customer relations
- Creativity and innovation
- Building trust
- Core Values:
- Respect for diversity
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Accountability
Working Environment and Logistics
The internship will be based at the IFRC Africa Regional Office in Nairobi. The selected candidate is expected to be available full-time for the duration of the three-month engagement. Although this is an internship position, it offers a structured and professional environment for capacity-building and exposure to regional and international humanitarian operations.
While no specific accompanied or duty station status applies for this internship, the intern will benefit from regular mentorship, access to learning materials, and involvement in regional initiatives under the guidance of experienced professionals in the PGI field.
Why Join the IFRC as a PGI Intern?
This internship is an excellent opportunity for individuals who aspire to build a career in humanitarian programming, child protection, gender equality, or social inclusion. It provides a gateway to practical experience in a world-renowned humanitarian institution that prioritizes principled action, community engagement, and impactful change.
By working on projects that support children affected by armed conflict and advancing gender-sensitive and inclusive approaches across Africa, the intern will directly contribute to shaping safer and more equitable environments for vulnerable populations.
Moreover, the internship provides exposure to regional coordination mechanisms, inter-agency collaboration, and institutional strengthening – all of which are key components of effective humanitarian action.
Application Deadline
Interested candidates must submit their applications no later than 13 August 2025. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as the recruitment process is competitive.
Application Procedure
To apply for this internship, please follow the official application process as outlined in the IFRC careers portal or job board from which you accessed this vacancy. Ensure your application includes an updated CV, a concise cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience, and any other documents required by the portal.
We look forward to receiving your application and possibly welcoming you to the IFRC Africa Regional Office to contribute meaningfully to our mission.
