The African Union, through the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, is inviting applications for the AVoHC Kofi Annan Scholars Program – Strategy Development Expert. This opportunity is part of a high-impact continental initiative aimed at strengthening Africa’s public health systems and leadership capacity. This is a roster-based, on-call deployment role under the African Volunteers Health Corps (AVoHC), offering experienced professionals the chance to contribute to national and regional health transformation across Africa. Programme Overview The Kofi Annan Scholars Program is a flagship initiative designed to build a pipeline of African public health leaders capable of advancing health security and sovereignty. It forms part of a broader leadership ecosystem that includes: Public Health Leadership Fellowship Public Health Scholars Program Public Health Policy Forum The programme deploys senior experts into Ministries of Health, National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs), and key institutions to deliver targeted, results-driven technical support. Role Purpose The Strategy Development Expert will support governments and institutions in designing and implementing evidence-based public health strategies aligned with continental priorities such as Agenda 2063. The role focuses on strengthening institutional capacity, improving public health planning, and supporting long-term system transformation. Key Responsibilities Strategic Planning and Analysis Conduct situational analyses and institutional capability assessments Identify policy, operational, and resource gaps Develop actionable recommendations for system improvement Strategy Development Lead or contribute to national and institutional strategy design Develop frameworks for workforce planning, emergency preparedness, and health system strengthening Align strategies with Africa CDC priorities and member state needs Stakeholder Engagement Facilitate consultations and co-creation workshops Collaborate with governments, partners, and civil society Support coordination across multiple stakeholders Implementation and Monitoring Design implementation roadmaps and tools Develop monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) systems Support resource mobilisation and partner alignment Technical Deliverables Produce high-quality policy briefs, reports, and strategy documents Translate complex technical insights into practical policy solutions Candidate Profile The role is designed for highly experienced professionals with a strong background in public health strategy and systems development. Education and Experience Master’s or PhD in public health, health policy, or a related field Minimum 7 years of relevant experience in strategic planning or policy development Proven track record in developing national or institutional strategies Experience working with Ministries of Health, NPHIs, or development partners Technical Skills Advanced policy analysis and strategic planning expertise Strong understanding of African health systems Experience in multi-stakeholder coordination Excellent writing and communication skills Personal Competencies High adaptability and resilience Strong cultural awareness and emotional intelligence Ability to work independently and collaboratively Commitment to impact, integrity, and service Language Requirements Proficiency in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili) Additional languages are an advantage Deployment Structure Type: Volunteer roster (on-call deployment) Number of Positions: 20 Duration: Determined per assignment in consultation with member states Location: Varies depending on deployment Being selected for the roster does not guarantee immediate placement but enables participation in paid, time-bound assignments when opportunities arise. Benefits and Opportunities While membership itself is unpaid, deployed experts receive: Stipend and allowances during assignments Travel and accommodation coverage Health insurance during deployment Professional recognition and certification Additional benefits include: Exposure to continental-level policy and strategy work Collaboration with high-level government and institutional stakeholders Opportunities for mentorship, training, and professional growth Contribution to Africa’s health security and sovereignty agenda Why This Role Matters This position plays a critical role in advancing Africa’s ability to: Prevent and respond to public health threats Strengthen national health systems Build sustainable, locally driven solutions By contributing to strategic planning and institutional development, selected experts will directly support long-term resilience and transformation across the continent. Application Process Application Deadline: 2 April 2026 (11:59 PM EAT) Applicants must: Complete the online application Upload a CV using the mandatory African Union template Provide academic qualifications and identification documents Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Equal Opportunity Commitment The African Union is committed to diversity and inclusion. Applications are strongly encouraged from: Women Candidates from underrepresented member states Professionals across the African continent and diaspora VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholars program. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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