Project Officer

Project Officer, Climate Portfolio

The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group is a French public institution implementing France’s development and international solidarity policies. Our mission is to contribute to the economic, social, and environmental progress of low and middle-income countries through loans, grants, expertise, and technical assistance. We support states, local authorities, companies, foundations, and NGOs in developing projects across diverse fields, including climate, biodiversity, energy, education, urban planning, health, digital technology, and vocational training.

AFD Group comprises AFD, Proparco (focused on private-sector financing), and Expertise France (the French international technical cooperation agency). With 85 offices worldwide, AFD Group finances and oversees over 4,000 development projects. In 2023, the Group’s commitments approached €13 billion.

AFD established its Kigali office in October 2021, supporting the normalization of relations between France and Rwanda. Since then, we have committed over €500 million. A partnership agreement signed in April 2024 envisions a further €400 million in support over the next five years.

AFD’s work in Rwanda focuses on three strategic pillars: health, vocational training & job creation, and climate change. Aligned with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy, our climate strategy seeks to support climate-friendly investment and improve resilience in vulnerable communities, especially rural districts and Kigali’s informal settlements. Key climate programs include:

Alignment of Investment Flows:

• Credit facilities with BRD, including support for Ireme Invest
• Collaboration with BNR, MINECOFIN, and RPPA
• Ongoing discussions with additional public financial institutions

Territorial Resilience:

• The Kigali Informal Settlement Upgrading Program
• Contributions to the “pro-poor” basket fund managed by LODA

To manage this portfolio, AFD Kigali is establishing a climate unit comprising a Senior Project Manager and a Project Officer. The Project Officer will support the Senior Project Manager and manage specific programs within the climate portfolio. This role is an open-ended contract.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Country Director of AFD in Rwanda, the Project Officer will be based in Kigali and will work with government institutions, public financial institutions, and state-owned enterprises to identify, manage, and follow up on climate-focused projects. This role requires a proactive approach to project development, strong management capabilities, and the ability to facilitate coordination among various stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Pipeline Development: Identify and develop new project opportunities in line with AFD’s climate strategy.
• Project Documentation: Draft project identification forms and project proposals with clarity and precision.
• Due Diligence and Coordination: Facilitate due diligence processes, liaise with AFD headquarters and regional offices, and ensure effective coordination with project teams.
• Negotiations and Agreements: Participate in the negotiation of credit facilities and grant agreements.
• Project Monitoring: Oversee the implementation of projects, ensuring that timelines, financial covenants, and reporting requirements are met.
• Portfolio Management: Collaborate closely with the Portfolio Department to maintain continuous dialogue with project beneficiaries, ensuring seamless project execution.
• Sectoral Engagement: Contribute to sector discussions and monitor relevant government strategies, especially those related to green finance.
• Strategic Contributions: Support AFD’s strategy formulation, research initiatives, and technical assistance programs.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Maintain active communication with key stakeholders, including Rwandan authorities, French embassy officials, NGOs, and other partners.
• Representation: Represent AFD in meetings and forums relevant to the climate portfolio.

Qualifications

• Master’s degreein project management, development economics, environmental studies, civil engineering, or a related field; certification in climate change is a plus.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experiencein a similar role within a reputable organization.
• Project Management Skills: Exceptional organizational skills and a structured approach to managing complex, multi-sector projects.
• Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with Rwanda’s public procurement regulations is essential. Prior experience with technical aspects (e.g., infrastructure tenders) is highly desirable.
• Analytical and Reporting Skills: Proficiency in drafting concise reports and analytical documents, with advanced Microsoft Office skills.
• Interpersonal and Teamwork Skills: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team, with excellent interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in French is an asset.

This is an open-ended contract with a six-month probation period. Start date is immediate, with an attractive salary package.

Please send applications to AFDKigali@afd.fr by Friday, Novembre 29^th at 12:00.