2 Posts Open At Kenya National Commission On Human Rights (KNCHR)

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The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is a constitutional body established under Article 59 of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 3 of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Act No 14 of 2011 (revised) 2012. It has the core mandate to develop a culture of Human Rights through the promotion and protection of rights and fundamental freedoms in the Republic of Kenya.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is an independent National Human Rights Institution created under Article 59 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and established by the Government of Kenya through an Act of Parliament (the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Act, 2011) and in accordance with the United Nations Principles relating to the Status of National Institutions (Paris Principles). KNCHR’s mandate includes furthering the protection and promotion of human rights in Kenya, acting as a watchdog over the Government in the area of human rights, and the provision of Leadership in moving the country towards a human rights respecting state. KNCHR fulfils its human rights mandate through five Directorates including: Complaints and Investigations, Research, Advocacy and Outreach, Legal Services, Regional Services and Corporate Services. The Commission has offices in Nairobi, Wajir, Kitale, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nyahururu.

KNCHR hereby invites applications for the following positions:

MEMBER OF THE AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE (1 POST) -Open

Pursuant to Section 73(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights invites applications qualified persons to fill the following position of member of the Audit and Risk Committee.

Purpose of the Job

The purpose of the Committee is to assist the Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights to fulfil its oversight responsibilities in respect to financial and governance reporting, process and systems internal control, risk management, internal audit, and monitoring compliance with policy, laws, regulations and the code of conduct.

Terms of Appointment

1. The member shall serve on a part-time basis for a period of three (3) years and may be eligible for re-appointment for a further one term only, subject to satisfactory performance.
2. The member will be entitled to allowances as determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) from time to time.
3. The Audit and Risk Committee meets at least four times annually, and may from time to time meet on special notice.

Requirements for Appointment

For appointment to this position, an applicant must;

1. Bachelor’s Degree from a university recognized in the Republic of Kenya.
2. Served in Senior Management level for at least 10 years or Board with proven experience.
3. Knowledge and experience in matters relating to any of the following fields; Governance, Public Administration, Law, Human Rights, Finance, Risk Management or any other relevant discipline.
4. A member in good standing of a professional body including ICPAK, IIA, ICSK, LSK, among others.
5. Fulfil the requirements of Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.

Duties and responsibilities to this position include

To fulfil its roles and responsibilities, the Committee shall exercise oversight on the following areas:

1.5.1 Financial reporting process

The Audit Committee shall;

1. Review significant accounting and reporting matters to understand their impact on the financial reporting requirements. This includes complex or unusual transactions, highly judgemental areas, as well as recent professional and regulatory pronouncement. 
2. Review quarterly and annual financial reports and disclosures before release and consider the accuracy and completeness of the information and in accordance with financial reporting standards and applicable rules and regulations.
3. Review in consultation with the internal auditors or the Office of the Auditor General, significant accounting and reporting issues and understand their impact on the financial reporting.
4. Apply appropriate level of scepticism, ask probing questions, and engage in frank discussions with management on the results of the audit, including any difficulties encountered.
5. Undertake any other duty assigned by the Commission.

1.5.2    Internal controls and risk management systems

The Audit Committee shall;

1. Review the efficiency and effectiveness of the Commission’s risk management and control processes.
2. Receive and consider reports on all matters of significance arising from work performed by other providers of financial, risk management and internal control assurance to senior management and the Commission.
3. Advising on the adequacy of risk management, internal control framework and policies.
4. Institute and oversee special/Ad hoc audits.
5. Undertake any other duty assigned by the Commission.

1.5.3    Oversight of the Internal Audit Function

The Audit Committee shall;

1. Establish a direct reporting relationship with the HIA and the internal audit division to enable the internal audit function to fulfil its mandate.
2. Require the HIA be positioned at a level in the Commission that enables internal audit services and responsibilities to be performed without interference from management.
3. Review and approve the Internal Audit Charter which includes the internal audit mandate and the scope and types of internal audit services and policies and procedures;
4. Review and approve Internal audit strategic plan, annual risk based audit plan, annual performance objectives, resource requirements and organizational structure of the internal audit function.
5. At least annually, discuss with the HIA, the sufficiency, both in numbers and capabilities, of internal audit resources to fulfil the internal audit mandate and achieve the internal audit plan.
6. Consider the impact of insufficient resources on the internal audit mandate and plan and engage senior management and the HIA on remedying the situation.
7. Ensure that the internal audit function has a Quality Assurance and Improvement Program (QAIP) and that the results of internal and external assessments are presented to the Committee.
8. Ensure independent quality assurance review of the internal audit function is conducted at least once every three years but not more than five years.
9. Review results of audit work, audit recommendations and management responses, with focus on most significant findings.
10. Review the effectiveness of the internal audit function, including compliance with relevant laws and conformance with the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF).
11. Ensure that agreed audit recommendations and action plans are implemented.
12. At least annually, meet separately with the HIA without the presence of management.
13. Drive/participate in the assessment of the performance of the HIA.
14. Review and assess the internal audit function’s performance relative to its audit plan;
15. Engage with senior management and the HIA to establish appropriate safeguards if HIA roles and responsibilities impair or appear to impair the internal audit function’s independence.
16. Engage with senior management to ensure that the internal audit function is free from interference when determining its scope, performing internal audit engagements, and communicating results.
17. Set expectations with the HIA for:

• The frequency with which the committee wants to receive communications from the HIA.
• The criteria for determining which issues should be escalated to the Commission, such as significant risks that exceed the Commission’s risk appetite/tolerance
• The process for escalating matters of importance to the Commission.

18. Undertake any other duty assigned by the Commission.

If you are interested and possess the above qualifications, please apply online through the KNCHR recruitment portal by COB Monday 9^th February 2026.

The KNCHR is committed to implementing the provisions of the Constitution – Chapter 232 (1) on fair competition and merit, representation of Kenya’s diverse communities and affording equal employment opportunities to men, women of all ethnic groups and persons with disabilities. Therefore, qualified intersex persons, persons with disabilities, persons from marginalized communities and the minority groups are encouraged to apply. 

PLEASE NOTE:

-It is a criminal offence to provide any false information and documents in the application.

-Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

-Only shortlisted candidates will be advised to submit clearance certificates from the various institutions.

–KNCHR does NOT have recruitment agents and does NOT charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. Report any incident of extortion to KNCHR or to the Police.

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ASSISTANT DIRECTOR REGIONAL SERVICES (KNCHR 4/JOB GROUP Q) – Open

REF: KNCHR/ADM/ ADRS/01/01/2026

Reports to:  Deputy Director Regional Services

Direct reports: Senior Regional Services Officers 

Indirect Reports: Regional officers

Duration:     Permanent

Duty Station:  Kitale

Gross Salary:  Kshs. 205,850

Other Benefits: Medical cover, Group Life Insurance and WIBA

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for supervising the development and implementation of policies, procedures, plans, strategies, standards and guidelines and programmes in relation to the functions of regional services to ensure effective realisation of the overall commission’s mandate of protecting and promoting human rights.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

I. Managerial / Supervisory Responsibilities

1. Provide technical input in the development of the regional office work plans and budgets
2. Facilitate the development and implementation of human rights programmes and activities in the Regional Office to meet programmatic goals and objectives.
3. Providing technical guidance in identification and framing of region-specific human rights issues for further profiling and designing appropriate interventions 
4. Managing the operationalization of strategies, standards, policies and procedures of the commission in the regional office
5. Facilitate implementation of the commission’s human resource functions at the regional office.
6. Facilitating the initiation and management of strategic partnership with state and non-state actors to support the discharge of functions of the regional office
7. Reviewing activity requests and activity reports in the grants management system in line with agreed programme objectives
8. Supervise the processing of human rights complaints and investigations in the regional office
9. Facilitate monitoring and evaluation of regional office programmes
10. Facilitate the development of proposals for resource mobilisation at the regional office
11. Represent the commission in key committees on emerging human rights issues in the regions
12. Supervise planning and designing the implementation of regional office work
13. Provide technical input on appropriate interventions for addressing human rights issues in the regional office

II.   Operational Responsibilities / Tasks

1. Compilation of quarterly, bi-annual and annual progress reports in the regional office
2. Organizing staff and setting performance targets for staff at the regional office to ensure quality work and accountability of resources.
3. Guiding in screening and complaints processing by the Regional officers.
4. Reviewing case files in the Complaints management system.
5. Reviewing work plans to ensure adherence to the activity inputs and outputs
6. Supervise field investigations, rapid response and Conducting research/survey in response to Human Rights violation cases reported to the regional office to determine the way forward in pursuit of justice for the complainants.
7. Establishing mechanisms to minimize systemic human rights violations in the region.
8. Leading visits and inspections of places of detention to monitor and document cases of human rights violations and injustices.
9. Conduct Monitoring and evaluating implementation of regional human rights programmes.
10. Conducting public inquires and fact-finding missions on systemic human rights violations in the region.
11. Facilitating public awareness forums to promote policies and procedures of the Commission on matters that relate to Human Rights.
12. Supervising regional trainings for state and non- state actors in conjunction with partners to promote awareness in Human Rights standards.
13. Giving technical input in the development of Proposals and concepts for resource mobilization.
14. Making presentations and giving technical advice on human rights at high level meetings and Committees with the state and non -state actors.

Job Dimensions

I.   Financial Responsibility

1. Provides technical input into the budgeting process for the regional office and monitors expenditure and ensures prudent use of resources allocated to officers below him/her. In the absence of DD approves expenditures and tracks budget implementation. 
2. Provide technical advice during fundraising for region specific issues.
3. Coordinate timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, annual donor, and other reports for accountability.
4. Reviews activity imprests for accounting
5. Approves requisitions and financial estimates for specific activities.
6. Monitors movement of activity budget lines in the grants management system.
7. Managing grants as may be designated from time to time.

II.   Responsibility for Physical Assets

1.  Regional office building and office vehicle(s).
2.  Computers/laptops
3. General office equipment (Servers, telephones, stationery, fax machines, printers, network equipment, safes etc)
4.  Office furniture
5.  Resource materials
6.  Banners
7.  Kitchen equipment

III.   Decision Making / Job Influence

1. Managerial and operational decisions for officers under the incumbent are made; other decisions are made in consultation with the Deputy Director

Analytical

1. The officer reviews field activity reports and gives technical input before submission to the DD for approval
2. The officer reviews workplans and specific individual performance targets for officers under him/her
3. Develops fundraising proposals
4. Drafting board papers on issues to be addressed in the region

Strategic

1. Plays key role in choice of suitable strategic and operational interventions necessary to carry activities within the regional office
2. Provides technical advice on budgeting for regional activities and office administration
3. Reviews activity requisitions and attendant budget estimates for approval
4. Identifies key partners and initiates contact for further collaborations
5. Identifies and frames region specific issues to be profiled
6. Provides technical input in programme conceptualization
7. Maps out programme implementation sites in the areas under the coverage of the regional office

Tactical

1. Engages partners to manage their expectations on the work of the commission
2. Act as a go-between and support the relevant divisional heads in engaging contractual staff/service providers at the regional level
3. Conducts ADR to facilitate amicable resolution of complaints of alleged human rights violations.

Operational

1. Signing letters and Memos on behalf of the Deputy Director
2. Reviews case files in the Complaints management system and guide on appropriate measures
3. Approval of implementation requests and activity reports
4. Participate in Recruitment panels
5. Contribute to conducting of appraisals
6. Facilitate the conduct of Public Interest Litigation and other court interventions to affirm human rights at the regional level
7. Identify staff training needs and facilitate the relevant trainings to equip staff with the requisite capacity to undertake the Commission duties. 

IV. Working Conditions

1. Office settings with occasional field travel (national, regional and international)
2. Long working hours with field travels to remote areas, places of detention, security operation areas, disturbed areas, working with marginalized/ indigenous communities and exposure to multicultural settings

Experience and Minimum Qualifications

1. Master’s degree in any of the following fields: Anthropology, Criminology, Political Science, Sociology, Law Peace Building/Conflict Management, Political Science/Government, Development Studies, International Relations and Diplomacy or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution; 
2. Certificate in any of the following fields: Human Rights, Alternative Dispute Resolutions, Investigations or Project Planning from a recognized institution;
3. Certificate in Senior Management Course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution;
4. Certificate in Computer Application Skills from a recognized institution;
5. Meet the requirements of Chapter 6 of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity; and shown merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results.
6. Membership to professional bodies, for advocates – Membership with LSK
7. 7 years relevant work experience required.

Skills and Competencies

1. Interpersonal Skills
2. Communication skills,
3. Leadership skills,
4. Negotiation skills,
5. Computing skills,
6. Problem solving skills,
7. Analytical skills,
8. Supervisory skills,
9. Conflict resolution skills.
10. Report writing skills.

If you are interested and possess the above qualifications, please apply online through the  by COB Wednesday 29^th January 2026.

The KNCHR is committed to implementing the provisions of the Constitution – Chapter 232 (1) on fair competition and merit, representation of Kenya’s diverse communities and affording equal employment opportunities to men, women of all ethnic groups and persons with disabilities. Therefore, qualified intersex persons, persons with disabilities, persons from marginalized communities and the minority groups are encouraged to apply. 

PLEASE NOTE:

-It is a criminal offence to provide any false information and documents in the application.

-Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

-Only shortlisted candidates will be advised to submit clearance certificates from the various institutions.

-KNCHR does NOT have recruitment agents and does NOT charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. Report any incident of extortion to KNCHR or to the Police.

Apply Now