Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR)
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Regular Contract (3 years, with 12-month probation)
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Indicative basic salary of US$ 31,073.00 (P2 Step 1) per annum + benefits (e.g., post adjustment 42%, housing allowance US$ 18,585.00 per annum, education allowance up to US$ 10,000.00 per child per annum for internationally recruited staff, US$ 3,300.00 per child per annum for locally recruited staff)
• Category/Department: Animal Health / Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (DARBE)
• Reporting To: Senior Animal Health Officer
• Application Deadline: July 25, 2025, 11:59 PM EAT

Introduction

The African Union (AU) invites applications for the Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) position at its Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) in Nairobi, Kenya, starting in 2025. This pivotal role supports Africa’s integration and sustainable development by strengthening animal health and food security across member states. Ideal for a dedicated professional with a background in veterinary science or epidemiology, this position offers a chance to contribute to continental initiatives, coordinate disease control, and foster partnerships with global organizations. With a competitive salary package and a focus on diversity, this Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) role is a unique opportunity to impact Africa’s livestock sector from Nairobi, a hub for AU operations.

About the African Union (AU-IBAR)

The African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is a Pan-African body committed to promoting unity, solidarity, and sustainable development across its 54 member states. The Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), based in Nairobi, Kenya, is a specialized technical office under the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (DARBE). AU-IBAR’s mandate is to enhance livestock, fisheries, and wildlife resources for human wellbeing and economic growth, focusing on poverty alleviation and food security. As an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), you’ll play a key role in advancing these goals through strategic leadership and technical expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to strategic leadership in animal health across AU member states
• Provide technical guidance to member states and regional economic communities on disease control
• Coordinate programs for controlling animal diseases, supporting regional and national efforts
• Maintain and diversify partnerships with international organizations like WOAH and FAO
• Assist in coordinating animal health and welfare activities, including epizootic control and One Health approaches
• Support the eradication of trans-boundary diseases in member states
• Manage the ARIS system to collect and disseminate animal health information
• Facilitate liaison with member state authorities, regional groups, and international bodies
• Monitor changes in the International Animal Code and adapt AU-IBAR’s response
• Collaborate with WOAH, FAO, and GF-TADs Africa on strategic health initiatives
• Plan responses to major animal disease outbreaks in member states
• Support networking and management of animal health programs within IBAR
• Monitor sectoral issues and formulate strategies for quarterly and annual reporting
• Maintain a continental platform for public and private animal health actors
• Perform additional duties assigned by the supervisor or director

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, Animal Health, Epidemiology, or related field with at least 5 years of progressive experience in veterinary/animal health with a strong background in veterinary epidemiology; OR Master’s degree in the same fields with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience
• Experience: Supervisory experience is an added advantage; international work experience is highly desirable
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in project management, multi-tasking, and IT tools
• Interpersonal Skills: Effective communication and negotiation abilities
• Leadership: Proven leadership skills in a multicultural setting
• Teamwork: Self-motivated, creative, and reliable team player
• Preferred: Experience identifying capacity gaps and implementing capacity-building strategies
• Preferred: Familiarity with trans-boundary animal diseases (TADs) and zoonoses
• Preferred: Knowledge of veterinary public health, epidemiology, and laboratory networks
• Languages: Proficiency in one AU working language (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, Spanish) is mandatory; fluency in another is an added advantage

Company Culture and Values

The African Union promotes a multicultural and values-driven culture, guided by principles of respect for diversity, teamwork, transparency, accountability, integrity, impartiality, efficiency, professionalism, and knowledge sharing. As an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), you’ll work in a collaborative environment that prioritizes Africa’s development, encouraging innovation and strategic thinking. The AU values gender mainstreaming and equal opportunity, strongly encouraging qualified women and candidates from least represented countries to apply, fostering an inclusive workplace.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) position. Download the mandatory African Union CV template in English or French using the links below, fill it out correctly, and upload it to the “Resume” tab of your profile on the AU careers portal:

• Download English CV Template
• Download French CV Template

Submit your completed application via Apply for Animal Health Officer Jobs at AU-IBAR. Applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025, 11:59 PM EAT. Ensure you include a curriculum vitae, African passport, and relevant academic qualifications (e.g., diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s). Only candidates meeting all requirements and selected for interviews will be contacted. The AU is an equal opportunity employer, with a focus on gender equality and representation from least represented countries.

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animal health officer, AU-IBAR jobs, Nairobi job opportunities, veterinary jobs, African Union careers

Why Choose This Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) Role?

A Strategic Role in Africa’s Development

The Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) position at the African Union offers a unique opportunity to contribute to Africa’s sustainable development and food security. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, this role involves coordinating disease control, fostering international partnerships, and supporting member states in animal health initiatives. With a competitive salary package (US$ 31,073.00 per annum + benefits) and a 3-year contract, this position is ideal for professionals passionate about veterinary science and epidemiology, eager to make a continental impact.

The Role of AU-IBAR in Kenya

Nairobi hosts AU-IBAR, a critical arm of the African Union focused on livestock, fisheries, and wildlife resources. As a hub for Pan-African collaboration, Nairobi’s strategic location supports AU-IBAR’s mission to alleviate poverty and enhance food security. The Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) will leverage this platform to address trans-boundary diseases and zoonoses, contributing to Kenya’s role as a leader in regional animal health.

Career Benefits of the Role

This Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) position offers:

• Strategic Leadership: Shape animal health policies across Africa
• Global Exposure: Collaborate with WOAH, FAO, and other international bodies
• Professional Growth: Gain experience in a multicultural AU environment
• Competitive Package: Enjoy a robust salary and benefits package
• Impactful Work: Contribute to poverty alleviation and food security

The role provides a platform for career-defining achievements in veterinary and public health.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities in Detail

As an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), your daily tasks will include:

• Disease Coordination: Support control and eradication of trans-boundary diseases
• Data Management: Update the ARIS system with animal health information
• Partnership Liaison: Engage with member states, RECs, and international organizations
• Outbreak Response: Plan responses to major animal disease outbreaks
• Reporting: Monitor sectoral issues and prepare quarterly/annual reports
• Network Support: Maintain platforms for public and private animal health actors
• Risk Analysis: Assess risks along livestock value chains

These tasks ensure effective animal health management across the continent.

Technical and Soft Skills Development

The Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) role hones a range of skills, including:

• Project Management: Coordinate complex health programs
• Communication: Engage stakeholders in multicultural settings
• Negotiation: Secure partnerships with international bodies
• Leadership: Guide member states and RECs on health strategies
• Analytical Skills: Conduct risk analysis and epidemiological assessments
• Teamwork: Collaborate in a diverse AU team

These skills are transferable to veterinary, public health, and international development roles.

Why Nairobi?

Nairobi, home to AU-IBAR and a diplomatic hub, is an ideal base for the Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) role. With its strategic location and access to regional markets, Nairobi supports AU initiatives, offering professional networking and a vibrant lifestyle. Working here positions you at the center of Africa’s development efforts.

Industry Trends in Animal Health

Africa’s animal health sector is evolving, with a focus on trans-boundary disease control, One Health approaches, and food security. The rise of zoonotic diseases and climate change impacts drive demand for skilled professionals. As an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), you’ll lead these trends, enhancing veterinary services and supporting AU member states.

Application Tips

To stand out for the Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) role:

• Highlight Education: Emphasize your degree in veterinary science or epidemiology
• Showcase Experience: Detail 2–5 years of relevant experience
• Include Languages: Confirm proficiency in an AU language and fluency in another
• Use AU CV Template: Download and submit the mandatory CV template
• Submit Early: Apply by July 25, 2025, via Apply for Animal Health Officer Jobs at AU-IBAR

Work Environment and Culture

The AU-IBAR offers a multicultural and professional environment, emphasizing collaboration and innovation. As an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), you’ll work with a diverse team, supported by a structured contract and benefits package. The AU’s focus on gender equality and representation fosters an inclusive workplace.

How This Role Contributes to Africa’s Development

By joining AU-IBAR as an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR), you’ll support livestock farmers and enhance food security across Africa. Your work will align with AU Agenda 2063 goals for sustainable development and poverty alleviation, positioning you as a key player in continental progress.

Networking and Professional Growth

The Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) role offers connections with veterinarians, policymakers, and international partners. Engaging with networks like the African Veterinary Association can boost your career. Nairobi’s AU presence provides a platform to build a global professional network.

Final Call to Action

Don’t miss the opportunity to join the African Union as an Animal Health Officer (AU-IBAR) in Nairobi. Apply by July 25, 2025, 11:59 PM EAT, using the mandatory AU CV template and submitting via Apply for Animal Health Officer Jobs at AU-IBAR. Contribute to Africa’s animal health and advance your career in a prestigious Pan-African organization.