Communication Associate Role at UNDP Malawi National UN Volunteer Opportunity

August 2, 2025

4 minutes read

Communication Associate Role at UNDP Malawi – National UN Volunteer Opportunity

Are you a communications enthusiast with a flair for storytelling, digital media, and development work? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Malawi is currently accepting applications for a Communication Associate under the National UN Volunteer Specialist category. Based in Lilongwe, this full-time 12-month onsite assignment is ideal for experienced media and communications professionals looking to contribute meaningfully to Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Apply by August 25, 2025, and become part of a global movement to build strong partnerships for sustainable development in Malawi.

Communication Associate Role at UNDP Malawi – National UN Volunteer Opportunity

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Background & Job Description

📍 Please Note: This website is not affiliated with UNDP or the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme. We are only promoting this opportunity for informational purposes to help professionals access global development careers.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has worked in Malawi since 1964, focusing on reducing poverty, strengthening democratic governance, managing natural resources sustainably, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UNDP Malawi Country Office supports the Malawi Government in implementing Malawi Agenda 2063, a vision aimed at turning Malawi into a self-reliant, upper-middle-income country.

The Communications Unit within the Country Office plays a vital role in raising public awareness about UNDP’s development impact. From crafting stories of change to managing digital platforms and media relations, the team ensures UNDP Malawi’s work is visible, engaging, and accessible to all stakeholders.

The position of Communication Associate falls under the National UN Volunteer Specialist category, reporting directly to the Communication Analyst. This role offers a unique opportunity to blend technical communication skills with grassroots-level development work and high-level advocacy.

Tasks

The Communication Associate will play an integral role in the internal and external communication efforts of UNDP Malawi. The main responsibilities include:

1. Internal Communications

Compile weekly internal highlights for digital display boards and staff newsletters.
Assist in drafting internal memos and announcements to keep staff informed and engaged.

2. Content Development

Draft compelling stories of change, press releases, blogs, and news articles showcasing UNDP Malawi’s achievements.
Assist in the design, branding, and distribution of communication materials and merchandise.
Work closely with service providers to ensure the quality production of branded items.

3. Digital Media & Website Management

Maintain and update UNDP Malawi’s Facebook, Twitter (X), and YouTube channels daily or weekly.
Upload photos, documents, and highlights to the UNDP communications shared drive for institutional archiving.
Update the official UNDP Malawi website at least once a month with new stories and announcements.

4. Media Engagement

Organize media breakfasts, briefings, and press visits to UNDP project sites.
Facilitate media coverage and ensure accurate representation of UNDP activities.
Monitor and prepare daily media reports reflecting UNDP’s visibility in national press.

5. Administrative & Logistical Support

Coordinate communication-related procurement processes, including liaising with vendors and processing payments.
Maintain an inventory of communications tools and ensure timely delivery of outputs.
Support planning and execution of communication campaigns and high-profile events.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

A Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, Public Relations, or a related field from an accredited university.

Experience

Minimum 3 years of professional experience in media, journalism, digital communication, or public relations.
Prior experience with development communications, especially in NGO, UN, or international organization settings, is an added advantage.

Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following:

Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills tailored to development narratives.
Proficiency in social media management and content scheduling tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Meta Business Suite).
Good knowledge of media monitoring tools and analytics.
Basic to intermediate skills in photography and videography.
Experience in graphic design tools like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Illustrator is a plus.
Familiarity with website content management systems (CMS) like WordPress.
Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Commitment to the values of volunteerism, integrity, inclusion, and community development.

Assignment Details

Position Title: Communication Associate
Category: National UN Volunteer Specialist
Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
Host Entity: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Expected Start Date: August 25, 2025
Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)
Work Type: Onsite, Full-time
Number of Positions: 1
Language Requirements: English (Fluency required)

Benefits of the Assignment

As a National UN Volunteer, you will be entitled to:

Monthly volunteer living allowance (VLA) intended to cover basic living expenses.
Health insurance and life insurance coverage.
Access to learning resources and capacity-building workshops.
Involvement in initiatives that directly contribute to Malawi’s national development goals.
Opportunity to network with professionals across the UN system and development sector.

Application Instructions

If you meet the above qualifications and are passionate about storytelling, digital media, and community development, you are encouraged to apply through the official UNV portal.

🔗 Apply Now on UNV Website
📅 Application Deadline: August 25, 2025

Ensure that you upload your CV, relevant academic certificates, and a brief cover letter explaining your motivation for applying and how your skills align with the role.

Disclaimer

This is a third-party publication and not an official listing by UNDP or the United Nations Volunteers Programme. We only advertise this opportunity to inform and connect professionals with global development careers. Please verify the full eligibility criteria and application details on the official UNV website before applying.

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