Remote job for Advocacy and Research Officer

SIHA NETWORK IS HIRING: ADVOCACY AND RESEARCH OFFICER

Organization: Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network

Position: Advocacy and Research Officer

Location: Virtual, with frequent regional and international travel

Employment Type: Full-time

Contract: 1-year renewable

Start Date: As soon as possible

Reporting To: Knowledge Management Lead

Application Deadline: 15th September 2026

ABOUT SIHA NETWORK

The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network is a regional feminist network comprising women’s rights organizations and activists working to advance gender equality, women’s rights, peace, security and social justice across the Greater Horn of Africa.

SIHA works with grassroots organizations, civil society actors and regional and international stakeholders to strengthen feminist movements, promote women’s leadership, prevent and respond to violence against women and girls, and influence policies and practices that advance the rights of women and girls.

ABOUT THE ROLE

SIHA is seeking an Advocacy and Research Officer with a strong understanding of gender equality, feminist perspectives, human rights and women’s rights.

The successful candidate will coordinate research and advocacy initiatives, oversee research projects, support documentation efforts and contribute to SIHA’s publications, advocacy reports, statements and other knowledge products.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Coordinate and contribute to SIHA research projects and publications across countries of operation.
2. Develop and review research reports, position papers, briefings and advocacy materials.
3. Analyse research findings and use evidence to inform advocacy priorities and strategies.
4. Identify emerging research needs and opportunities across SIHA’s countries of operation.
5. Support the development and implementation of SIHA’s advocacy strategy.
6. Coordinate human rights submissions, country reports, press statements and research papers.
7. Review and edit research outputs and reports.
8. Monitor calls for papers, research opportunities and relevant advocacy platforms.
9. Support research launch events and other knowledge-sharing activities.
10. Collaborate with programme, MEL, communications, documentation and country teams.
11. Contribute to publications including the SIHA Journal, Women in Islam, manuals, guides and other knowledge products.
12. Engage with relevant stakeholders and influential actors across the region.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

1. At least 4 years of relevant professional experience.
2. Postgraduate degree in Human Rights, Social Studies, Women’s Studies, Development or Humanitarian Studies, Gender Studies, Law or a related field.
3. Proven experience in qualitative sociological, socio-legal, feminist and/or human rights research.
4. Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills.
5. Excellent written English and strong analytical skills.
6. Experience drafting public statements, advocacy submissions, briefings and research publications.
7. Strong understanding of the political context and gender relations in the Horn of Africa.
8. Experience working in advocacy and/or research within the human rights or NGO sector.
9. Ability to work effectively in culturally and politically diverse environments.
10. Willingness and ability to travel across the Horn of Africa as required.
11. Demonstrated commitment to women’s rights, gender equality and social and human rights movements.

LANGUAGES

English: Excellent written and professional proficiency is essential.

Knowledge of French, Arabic, Amharic and/or Somali is an added advantage.

REGIONAL KNOWLEDGE

Candidates should have comprehensive knowledge of the Horn of Africa, particularly Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Somaliland, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Uganda.

KEY SKILLS

Strong copy-editing, research, analytical, communication, interpersonal and organisational skills are required, together with the ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

SIHA is particularly interested in candidates committed to strengthening African civic space, feminist organizations and the rights of women, girls and communities.

REMUNERATION

SIHA is committed to offering fair remuneration based on qualifications and experience.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit their current CV and a cover letter outlining their motivation, relevant experience and expertise through the application link.

APPLY HERE

VIEW FULL JOB DESCRIPTION

APPLICATION DEADLINE

15th September 2026

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.