International Alert Rwanda is recruiting a Senior Project Officer for the Mupaka Shamba Letu II Project. Applications close on 17 July 2026.
Senior Project Officer at International Alert Rwanda – Exciting Opportunity to Support Peacebuilding and Regional Development
Professionals with experience in peacebuilding, project management, gender equality, and community development have an excellent opportunity to join one of the world’s respected peacebuilding organizations. International Alert Rwanda is inviting qualified candidates to apply for the position of Senior Project Officer under the Mupaka Shamba Letu II (MSL II) Project.
This position offers much more than a traditional project management role. The successful candidate will contribute to initiatives that strengthen peace, promote regional cooperation, improve social cohesion, and empower women and youth involved in cross-border trade across Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
If you are passionate about creating positive social impact while working with an international organization, this vacancy provides an opportunity to build your professional career while contributing to sustainable development in the Great Lakes Region.
The application deadline is 17 July 2026, and interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
About International Alert
International Alert is an independent international peacebuilding organization headquartered in the United Kingdom. For decades, the organization has partnered with governments, civil society organizations, development agencies, and local communities to prevent violent conflict and promote sustainable peace.
Rather than responding only after conflicts occur, International Alert focuses on addressing the root causes of conflict through dialogue, research, advocacy, community engagement, and capacity building. Its work supports communities in building peaceful relationships while promoting inclusive economic growth and social justice.
In Rwanda, International Alert works closely with local institutions and international partners to strengthen social cohesion, empower vulnerable communities, improve governance, and support regional cooperation. Its projects often target women, youth, community leaders, and private sector actors who play a significant role in promoting peace and development.
The organization is recognized for implementing evidence-based programs that create long-term positive change while ensuring that local communities actively participate in finding solutions to the challenges they face.
About the Mupaka Shamba Letu II Project
The Mupaka Shamba Letu II (MSL II) Project is designed to strengthen peace and stability across the Great Lakes Region by promoting peaceful cooperation among border communities.
The project recognizes that women and young people engaged in small-scale cross-border trade are important contributors to economic development and regional integration. By strengthening their capacities, the project seeks to reduce conflict, improve cooperation between neighboring countries, and encourage inclusive economic growth.
The project operates in several important border areas connecting Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, including:
- Rubavu – Goma
- Rusizi – Bukavu
- Uvira – Gatumba
- Kamanyola – Bugarama
- Akanyaru – Mparamirundi
- Ruhwa – Cibitoke
International Alert implements the project together with experienced local partners, including organizations working in peacebuilding, microfinance, private sector development, and cross-border trade.
The overall objective is to strengthen regional peace by helping communities build trust through economic cooperation while ensuring that women and youth participate actively in development initiatives.
Position Overview
International Alert is recruiting a Senior Project Officer who will coordinate the implementation of project activities in Rwanda while working closely with project partners, government institutions, traders’ associations, monitoring teams, and community stakeholders.
The position is based in Kigali, but the successful candidate will regularly travel to project implementation areas, including Rubavu, Rusizi, and Nyaruguru Districts.
The contract is for twelve months, with the possibility of renewal depending on organizational needs, project funding, and employee performance.
The salary offered is competitive and follows International Alert’s salary structure for Rwanda.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Project Officer will provide both technical and operational leadership throughout the implementation of the MSL II project.
Some of the major responsibilities include:
- Leading the planning, coordination, and monitoring of project implementation in Rwanda.
- Providing technical guidance to implementing partners and ensuring activities align with project objectives.
- Supporting organizations working with women and youth involved in cross-border trade.
- Strengthening collaboration between local authorities, private sector institutions, financial organizations, and community groups.
- Monitoring field activities and ensuring project quality standards are maintained.
- Supporting capacity-building activities for partner organizations.
- Participating in project planning meetings and coordination forums.
- Conducting field visits to monitor implementation progress and provide technical support.
- Supporting data collection, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
- Preparing quality narrative reports and reviewing reports submitted by project partners.
- Promoting gender-sensitive and conflict-sensitive approaches throughout project implementation.
- Supporting advocacy initiatives that improve regional cooperation and address challenges affecting cross-border trade.
- Contributing to learning, documentation, and continuous improvement within the project.
Why This Position Is Important
Peacebuilding requires collaboration between communities, governments, civil society, and the private sector. Cross-border trade plays a significant role in creating economic opportunities while strengthening relationships among neighboring communities.
Through this position, the Senior Project Officer will help create an environment where women and young entrepreneurs can participate more effectively in economic activities while contributing to peaceful coexistence.
Beyond project implementation, the role contributes to broader regional development by supporting inclusive economic growth, promoting dialogue, and strengthening cooperation among stakeholders working toward long-term peace.
For professionals interested in international development, humanitarian work, governance, or community empowerment, this position offers valuable experience in managing complex, multi-country development initiatives.
Required Qualifications
International Alert is looking for a highly motivated professional with strong experience in project management, peacebuilding, and community engagement. Candidates should possess the academic qualifications and practical experience needed to coordinate a multi-partner regional project effectively.
Applicants should meet one of the following educational requirements:
- A Master’s degree in Social Sciences with a focus on Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation, Business for Peace, Rural Development, Economics, Political Science, International Relations, Law, or another closely related field.
OR
- A Bachelor’s degree in one of the above disciplines accompanied by at least five years of relevant professional experience.
In addition to academic qualifications, candidates should demonstrate practical experience in implementing projects that involve peacebuilding, gender equality, regional integration, community recovery, or economic empowerment.
Professionals who have worked with international NGOs, development agencies, government institutions, or civil society organizations will find this opportunity particularly suitable because of the collaborative nature of the role.
Professional Experience Required
International Alert seeks a candidate who can immediately contribute to project implementation with minimal supervision. Therefore, applicants should have proven experience in several of the following areas:
- Supervising peacebuilding and community recovery projects.
- Managing regional integration or development programmes.
- Coordinating activities involving multiple implementing partners.
- Monitoring project implementation and preparing donor reports.
- Budget planning and activity implementation.
- Supporting women’s economic empowerment initiatives.
- Working with youth development programmes.
- Financial inclusion projects involving cooperatives, Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
- Facilitating collaboration between public institutions, private sector organizations, and local communities.
- Implementing projects across Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo or in similar regional contexts.
Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this position, candidates should demonstrate both technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills.
Important competencies include:
- Excellent project planning and coordination skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- High ethical standards and professional integrity.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Experience working within multicultural environments.
- Ability to build productive relationships with government institutions, civil society organizations, donors, and local communities.
- Good facilitation and presentation skills.
- Strong report writing and documentation skills.
- Ability to work under pressure while maintaining quality standards.
Candidates should also possess good computer skills and be comfortable using:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Internet-based communication tools
The successful applicant should be fluent in English, while a professional working knowledge of French is required. Knowledge of Swahili or Kirundi will be considered an added advantage.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
Joining International Alert means becoming part of an organization that works to create lasting peace in communities affected by conflict. Instead of focusing solely on humanitarian response, the organization invests in long-term solutions that strengthen cooperation, economic inclusion, and social cohesion.
For professionals seeking international NGO experience, this position offers an opportunity to:
- Build expertise in regional peacebuilding initiatives.
- Work alongside experienced international and local professionals.
- Develop leadership skills through project coordination.
- Gain exposure to donor-funded development programmes.
- Contribute to women’s and youth economic empowerment.
- Support regional cooperation across the Great Lakes Region.
Work Location, Contract Duration and Salary
The successful candidate will be based in Kigali, Rwanda, with regular travel to project implementation sites in:
- Rubavu District
- Rusizi District
- Nyaruguru District
The position is offered on a 12-month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of renewal depending on organizational requirements, funding availability, and individual performance.
International Alert offers a competitive salary aligned with its salary structure for Rwanda. While the exact salary has not been disclosed publicly, employees can expect remuneration consistent with similar positions within the organization.
Required Application Documents
Candidates should carefully prepare their application before submission.
According to the official recruitment notice, applicants must submit:
- A completed Application Form provided by International Alert.
Applicants are encouraged to complete the form accurately and ensure all required information is included before submission.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their completed application by email no later than 17 July 2026.
Application Email
Rwanda@international-alert.org
Email Subject
Application for Senior Project Officer position
Before sending your application, ensure that:
- The application form is fully completed.
- All requested information is accurate.
- The correct email subject is used.
- The application is submitted before the deadline.
Late applications may not be considered during the recruitment process.
Important Notes
Applicants should also note the following important information from International Alert:
- This recruitment is for a local position.
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
Application Deadline
📅 Deadline: 17 July 2026
To avoid last-minute technical issues, candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where is this position based?
The position is based in Kigali with regular field visits to Rubavu, Rusizi, and Nyaruguru.
2. Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month fixed-term contract with the possibility of renewal.
3. What qualifications are required?
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, or a Bachelor’s degree with at least five years of relevant professional experience.
4. Is field experience necessary?
Yes. Experience in peacebuilding, community development, gender, regional integration, or related development projects is important for this role.
5. Are women encouraged to apply?
Yes. International Alert explicitly encourages qualified women to submit applications.
6. How should I submit my application?
Applications should be emailed to Rwanda@international-alert.org using the subject line “Application for Senior Project Officer position.”
Final Conclusion
The Senior Project Officer vacancy at International Alert Rwanda presents an excellent opportunity for experienced development professionals who want to contribute to peacebuilding and regional cooperation in the Great Lakes Region. Beyond coordinating project activities, the successful candidate will play an important role in strengthening social cohesion, supporting women and youth traders, and promoting inclusive economic development across border communities.
If you meet the required qualifications and have a passion for building stronger, more peaceful communities, this opportunity could be the next step in your professional journey. Remember to submit your completed application form to Rwanda@international-alert.org before 17 July 2026, using the required email subject “Application for Senior Project Officer position.” For complete eligibility requirements and official instructions, consult the original recruitment notice before applying.
You may have missed
- Project Manager (PM) at Rwanda Branch | NGO Jobs in Rwanda 2026
- Audit and Accounts Trainee at HLB Rwanda | Accounting & Audit Jobs in Rwanda 2026
- Customer Care Officers (4 Positions) at Isoko SACCO Gasabo (ISG) | Customer Service Jobs in Rwanda 2026
- Bank Tellers/Cashiers (8 Positions) at Isoko SACCO Gasabo (ISG) | Banking Jobs in Rwanda 2026
USE this application-form to apply the job
Disclaimer
OpportunityHubs.com is an independent platform that shares jobs, scholarships, internships, and educational opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with recruiting organizations unless explicitly stated. Always verify application details through the official employer or institution before applying. OpportunityHubs.com never charges any application or recruitment fees.
