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

Since 2004, GIZ has been a reliable and trusted partner of the African Union (AU) to enhance
inclusive 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 German
Development 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,

• 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 sensitivities
  

• Contribute 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 complementarity
  

• Represent data policy themes to external partners and contribute to stakeholder engagement activities
  

Qualifications

• University 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 experience

• At least five years professional experience, at least one year’s experience in policy development in Africa
  

• Experience in international cooperation and development
  

• Knowledge 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 debates
  

• Strong intercultural and communication skills, with ability to work in diverse, multicultural
  environments

Other knowledge, additional competencies

• Business fluent English essential, French language skills are an advantage
  

• Willingness to work in complex political environments and handle demanding workload situations
  

Duty station

Nairobi

Contract Duration:

Up to December 2026

Submission of Application

Vacancy Reference Number: GIZ/SED/03/11/2025

Equal Employment Opportunity

At 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 apply

Ethics

GIZ 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 Confidentiality

In 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.