Organizational Setting

FAO Afghanistan is investing across all 34 provinces of Afghanistan in resilience reinforcing actions that focus on protecting agriculture livelihoods and local ecosystems, boosting local production of nutritious foods and cash-incomes, and safeguarding critical agriculture sectoral development gains achieved over the past couple of decades through revitalizing rural markets and economy. In particular, FAO provides a combination of humanitarian and basic needs/non-humanitarian assistance to female and male farmers and herders across Afghanistan in the agriculture, livestock, irrigation and natural resources sub-sectors through its projects and programs, as described in the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) and the United Nations Strategic Framework for Afghanistan (UNSFA) 2023-2027, specifically under UNSFA Priority 2 Economic Opportunities and Resilient Livelihoods.

This position is located in Kabul – Afghanistan.  

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative (FAOR) or Deputy FAO Representative (DFAOR) in Afghanistan. S/he will work under the direct supervision of the Animal Production & Health Team Leader and the overall guidance of the Head of Programme Unit. The direct supervisor or as assigned, will be responsible for all day-to-day supervision, technical guidance and the performance evaluation.

Technical Focus

Strengthen animal infectious and zoonotic diseases prevention through epidemiological surveillance, data analysis, vaccination and evidence based disease control interventions within a One Health framework. Support multisectoral coordination, emergency response, capacity development, and policy guidance to improve disease surveillance systems, vaccination strategies, and integrated human–animal–environment health outcomes.
 

Tasks and responsibilities

•     Conduct epidemiological studies to assess the health status of animal populations and identify disease prevalence and risk factors.
•     Design and implement disease surveillance programs to monitor livestock and wildlife health, aiming to prevent outbreaks.
•     Collect and analyse data related to animal health, disease outbreaks, and epidemiological trends.
•     Use statistical methods and software to interpret data and generate reports that inform decision-making. 
•     Collaborate with public health, environmental, animal health sectors and WHO to implement a One Health framework that addresses zoonotic diseases.
•     Promote interdisciplinary approaches that integrate human, animal, and environmental health initiatives.
•     Provide training to veterinary professionals on epidemiological methods, disease surveillance, and One Health principles.
•     Conduct workshops and educational sessions for farmers and communities on zoonotic diseases and prevention measures.
•     Active and regular participant in one health and zoonotic disease control stakeholder meetings and workshops, etc.
•     Respond to emergencies related to disease outbreaks, providing expert advice and support in controlling and managing crises.
•     Develop and recommend strategies for disease control and prevention based on epidemiological findings.
•     Assist in the design and implementation of vaccination campaigns and biosecurity measures.
•     Build and maintain relationships with Afghanistan Veterinary Association, local animal authorities, NGOs, and other stakeholders involved in animal health and public health. 
•     Collaborate with local and international organizations to strengthen veterinary services and improve disease control efforts.
•     Contribute to the development of policies and guidelines related to animal health, disease prevention, and the One Health approach.
•     Advocate for improved veterinary services and funding for disease surveillance and control programs.
•     Support project planning, implementation, and monitoring at the regional level.
•     Organize and support workshops, training sessions, and field demonstrations.
•     Coordinate with implementing partners, local authorities, and private sector actors to ensure alignment of development efforts.
•     Prepare regular progress reports, updates, and technical documentation for management.
•     Responding to requests for technical assistance from farmers and field staff.
•     Perform any other duties as required to support regional development goals.
•     Assist team members in providing a sessional calendar for control of animal diseases.
•     Participate in regional training workshops as appropriate.
•     Conduct regular field visits to monitor livestock conditions and production, addressing the actual challenges faced by farmers through the program.
•     Prepare and submit comprehensive reports on epidemiological findings, disease outbreaks, and recommendations for interventions.
•     Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure understanding and support for epidemiological initiatives.
•     Perform any other related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•     Advance university degree (Master or equivalent) or University degree (Bachelor) in veterinary Science / Livestock Production. 
•     For Advanced university degree (Master or equivalent) at least five (5) years of relevant work experience in animal health and animal production 
•     For university degree (Bachelor) at least seven (7) years of relevant work experience in animal health and animal production. 
•     At least 2 years of UN or INGO experience is desirable in veterinary or livestock production.
•     Working knowledge (level C) of English and local languages (Dari and/or Pashto).
•     National of Afghanistan

FAO Core Competencies

•     Results Focus
•     Teamwork
•     Communication
•     Building Effective Relationships
•     Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•     Have knowledge of finalizing the scope of works with the timeline needed for the implementation.
•     Experience of working with the United Nations or other international organizations (especially those working in the field of animal health and animal production) is preferred;
•     Proven skill to coordinate with the relevant institutions and the communities.
•     Excellent knowledge, MS Office package, Internet etc.
•     Strong communication and facilitation skills.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION