The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) is a non-profit international development organization that works to improve the quality of life in some of the world’s most impoverished regions. Founded in 1967 by His Highness the Aga Khan, the foundation is part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a global network of institutions dedicated to promoting human development, education. The Aga Khan Foundation operates in over 30 countries, with a focus on Asia and Africa, targeting areas where poverty, marginalization, and lack of access to essential services are most prevalent. Its work spans various sectors, including health, education, rural development, and economic empowerment, with an emphasis on sustainable, long-term solutions.
One of the core principles guiding the Aga Khan Foundation’s work is the belief in the power of education as a key driver of development. AKF has invested heavily in the education sector, working to improve access to quality education for all children, particularly girls and marginalized communities. This includes supporting primary and secondary schools, as well as vocational training centers and institutions of higher learning. Through initiatives such as the Aga Khan Academies, which provide a high standard of education to students from diverse backgrounds, the foundation aims to nurture future leaders who will drive social and economic change in their communities.
Health is another priority area for the Aga Khan Foundation. It works to improve access to healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved regions, where health systems are often weak and resources scarce. By strengthening systems, training professionals, and improving infrastructure, AKF helps build resilience in communities, ensuring that people can lives and access the care they need.
The Aga Khan Foundation also plays a key role in promoting economic development and sustainable livelihoods. Through programs focused on rural development, agriculture, and microfinance, AKF helps communities improve their income-generating activities and enhance food security. It supports farmers by providing them with training, better access to markets, and improved agricultural practices. Additionally, AKF’s microfinance initiatives empower individuals, particularly women, to start small businesses, access financial services, and achieve financial independence. These programs are designed to create long-term economic opportunities, helping families move out of poverty and build more prosperous futures.
Beyond its focus on education, health, and economic development, the Aga Khan Foundation emphasizes the importance of building social capital and promoting pluralism. The foundation’s projects foster collaboration across different communities and ethnic groups, helping to bridge divides and build social cohesion. By emphasizing the values of inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for diversity, AKF seeks to create societies where individuals can live and work together in harmony, contributing to a more peaceful and just world. Through its wide-ranging efforts, the Aga Khan Foundation continues to have a profound impact on the lives of millions of people, helping to create more resilient, prosperous, and equitable societies.
Job vacancy at Aga khan Foundation
Position: Head of Programmes
Duties
Program Leadership and Strategic Visioning involves
- Create and implement a program framework tailored to Tanzania’s specific needs.
- Manage the planning, implementation, and assessment of the program to ensure the timely achievement of results and objectives.
- Promote innovation and ensure programs are aligned with AKFT’s long-term objectives, addressing emerging challenges.
Stakeholder Engagement and External Representation involves
- Work closely with global teams, donors, government bodies, and civil society organizations to design and implement impactful programs.
- Serve as the representative of AKFT at both national and international platforms, fostering relationships with key stakeholders.
- Manage the monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure evidence-driven learning and the long-term sustainability of programs.
- Ensure adherence to donor regulations and organizational policies.
- Collaborate across functions, working closely with departments like Finance, Communications, and HR to provide coordinated support for the program.
Education Background
- A master’s degree in international development, Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, Agriculture, Education, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A master’s degree in these or other relevant disciplines is preferred.
- At least 5 years of progressive experience in program management, including a minimum of 3 years in a senior leadership role, with a proven track record of leading and implementing complex development programs.
- Demonstrated expertise in areas such as gender equality, education, climate resilience, or community-driven development is advantageous.
- Proven ability to collaborate with government agencies, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders.
- Extensive experience in financial management, including budgeting, financial analysis, and risk management.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, mentor, and develop teams in a diverse, multicultural environment.
- Proven ability to develop and execute strategic program visions that align with organizational goals and address emerging challenges.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly and persuasively communicate complex ideas to varied audiences.
- Strong analytical skills, capable of assessing complex situations, identifying key issues, and developing innovative solutions.
- Deep understanding of and sensitivity to the cultural contexts where AKFT operates, with the ability to adapt strategies accordingly.
- Thorough knowledge and understanding of gender and social inclusion issues, with a proven track record of delivering programs that directly address these inequalities.
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of child and community safeguarding issues, with experience in implementing relevant policies and procedures.
- Ability to drive programmatic innovation, adapt to changing environments, and adopt new approaches to improve program impact.
- Fluency in both Swahili and English is essential.
Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, CV, and contact details for three references.