Data Policy Advisor - Data Governance in Africa Initiative (DTC/AU Datacipation)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

GIZ, the German Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, provides services in the field of international technical cooperation worldwide. In Kenya, it has been active since 1964, and up to now implements programs in a wide variety of areas, including economic development, green energy and water, governance, food security, and peace and security. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is GIZ’s main commissioning party. However, GIZ as well works closely with the private sector, fostering successful interaction between development policy and foreign trade.

JOB SUMMARY

Since 2004, GIZ has been a reliable and trusted partner of the African Union (AU) to enhanceinclusive growth and sustainable development on the African continent in line with the AU's Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. With around 250 staff, GIZ AU cooperates with the AU Commission, as well as the AU's specialised institutions and agencies, such as the Development Agency AUDA-NEPAD, at continental, regional and national level in more than 40 member states. The Data Governance in Africa Initiative provides support for an African digital single market by harmonising regulations on data, creating cross-border data flow and promoting investments in secure and sustainable data infrastructure.In Kenya GIZ The Digital Transformation Centre (DTC) Kenya is a bilateral project of GermanDevelopment Cooperation established to support the country’s digital transition towards a sustainable and human-centred digital economy and society. The DTC capitalizes on the existing digital and innovation ecosystem and seeks to strengthen it, while also looking at the wider societal impact of digital technologies. Through establishing of strategic partnerships across a wide spectrum of public, private and civil society actors,

RESPONSIBILITIES

Position Overview:As Data Policy Advisor, you will support the implementation of the AU Data Policy Framework at national and regional level, working closely with African partners and contributing to digital policy harmonization activities across the continent. This will also entail working closely with the Kenyan DTC in the development and implementation of Kenya’s Data Policy and strategy.Tasks:Support the development and implementation of the Kenyan Data Policy and Strategy.Support the coordination of African organisations implementing the AU Data Policy Framework, contributing to project activities while considering political sensitivitiesContribute to policy development processes and ensure trainings are conducted using multi-stakeholder approaches in member countries in the AU.Collaborate with other GIZ projects and external actors working on data governance in Africa to ensure alignment and complementarityRepresent data policy themes to external partners and contribute to stakeholder engagement activitiesQualificationsUniversity degree (Bachelor or Master level) in political science, economics, law, development studies, international affairs or comparable subject, preferably with focus on digital transformation or governance issues.Professional experienceAt least five years professional experience, at least one year’s experience in policy development in AfricaExperience in international cooperation and developmentKnowledge of digital transformation policy issues, data governance frameworks, and related regulatory topics Partner-oriented approach to development cooperation, respecting African ownership and sovereignty, with awareness of post-colonial debatesStrong intercultural and communication skills, with ability to work in diverse, multiculturalenvironments Other knowledge, additional competenciesBusiness fluent English essential, French language skills are an advantageWillingness to work in complex political environments and handle demanding workload situations Duty stationNairobiContract Duration:Up to December 2026Submission of ApplicationVacancy Reference Number: GIZ/SED/03/11/2025Equal Employment OpportunityAt GIZ Kenya, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We actively seek individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to build a stronger, more impactful global team.We provide an environment of respect and psychological safety, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. Discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected status is not tolerated in any of our workplaces.People With disability are encouraged to applyEthicsGIZ is committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of all individuals we interact with, including staff, partners, community members, and program participants. We uphold the highest standards in preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Child abuse or any form of misconduct by or toward team members is strictly prohibited.All staff are expected to behave professionally, respect local laws and customs, and complete mandatory ethics e-learning courses upon hire.Data ConfidentialityIn accordance with GIZ’s data protection policy, all candidate applications are stored in our database for six (6) months and deleted thereafter.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Policy drafting and development, Data science, Data analysis, AI Governance

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree