The UN’s engagement in Botswana is guided by the United Nations Cooperation Framework (UNCF), which derives its mandate from the 2030 Agenda, the SDGs, and the Twelfth National Development Plan (NDP12) and the Botswana Economic Transformation Plan (BETP). In alignment with its commitment to accountability to partners, including governments and citizens, UNDP and the broader UN system ensure systematic, meticulous, and consistent tracking of progress against predefined results outlined in the UN Cooperation Framework (One UN Document) and the Country Programme Document (UNDP document).
Botswana’s governance landscape remains peaceful, stable, and internationally recognised for its strong institutions, sound policies, and longstanding commitment to democratic governance. This solid foundation continues to position the country as a regional example of good governance. At the same time, institutions are facing growing pressure to adapt to rising expectations for efficient service delivery, modern digital systems, and more responsive public services. These evolving demands highlight the need to strengthen institutional capacities, improve coordination, and enhance the quality and reach of public services. Within its Country Programme Document, UNDP prioritises support to national partners in key governance areas: promoting institutional strengthening through evidence‑based planning and monitoring systems. UNDP also places emphasis on expanding digital governance solutions and modernised service delivery platforms to ensure more responsive, transparent and accountable, and citizen‑centered public services.
These priorities are driven by a rights‑based approach that positions women and youth and Persons with Disability as key rights‑holders, communities and the private sector as partners in transformation, and public institutions as duty‑bearers. Through these partnerships, UNDP aims to contribute to a governance system that is more transparent, responsive and trusted. The Twelfth National Development Plan (NDP 12) places strong emphasis on governance reform as part of Botswana’s shift toward a high‑income, digitally enabled and export‑driven economy. Delivering on the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme requires capable institutions, accessible justice services, effective law‑enforcement and regulatory systems, and inclusive policy processes that support national aspirations for shared prosperity and reduced inequality.
Against this backdrop, the Governance Specialist will lead UNDP’s contribution to strengthening rule‑of‑law, widening access to justice, supporting human rights implementation, and advancing integrity and accountability systems. The Specialist will ensure that UNDP’s programme approach is grounded in national priorities, evidence and UN normative standards.
Under the supervision of the Deputy Resident Representative, the Specialist will provide policy advice on justice sector reform, legal empowerment, human rights implementation, anti‑corruption, institutional strengthening and governance innovations and the increased participation of and representation of vulnerable groups. S/He will lead the design and implementation of governance and justice initiatives under the CPD, ensuring clear results, measurable outcomes and alignment with SDG 5,16 and 17. It is expected that successful candidate will support government partners-including the National Assembly and other Constitutional institutions, law‑enforcement agencies, independent bodies and local authorities-to identify reform options that improve access to justice, strengthen service delivery and enhance rights protection. The Incumbent will facilitate civil society and community participation in justice and human rights processes, including expansion of legal aid, community‑based justice initiatives and citizen oversight while advancing digital governance tools in the justice sector, including data systems, case‑tracking mechanisms and platforms that improve coordination across institutions. Further, in line with UNDP policy and knowledge management work, the successful candidate will produce research, diagnostics and policy briefs to inform national dialogue, legislative processes and institutional reforms. S/He is expected to build and manage partnerships with government, CSOs, academia, UN agencies, regional bodies, development partners and the private sector to deliver concrete governance and justice results; and mobilise resources through concept notes, proposals and donor engagement focused on governance, rule of law and human rights.
The Specialist may supervise consultants and will work closely with UNDP’s regional and global governance networks to ensure Botswana benefits from comparative experience, knowledge and relevant technical support.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Governance
- Closing Date: 2026-07-28
Key Responsibilities
- Thorough analysis of the governance and political situation of the country and collaborative preparation/revision of Country Assessment (CA), United Nations Sustainable Development Corporation Framework (UNSDCF), Country Programme Document (CPD), and other documents;
- Identification of strategic and innovative areas of cooperation;
- Operationalization of the Governance aspect of UNSDCF/CPD in collaboration with the main partners and other UN agencies;
- Analysis and presentation of UNDP policies and programmes and their implementation in the CO.;
- CO business processes mapping and establishment of internal standard Operating Procedures in Results Management, control of the workflows in the Governance Workstreams.
- Effective application of RBM tools, establishment of management targets and monitoring and achievement of results;
- Strategic oversight of planning, budgeting, implementing and monitoring of the programme, tracking use of fanatical resources in accordance with UNDP rules and regulations; Under delegated authority may perform the function of Manager Level 2 in Quantum for development projects transactions approval;
- Effective monitoring, measuring the impacts of Governance Programme and evaluation. Constant monitoring and analysis of the programme environment, timely adjustment of programme;
- Ensures effective follow up to Audit recommendations and findings;
- Ensures effective organization of cost recovery system for the services provided by the CO to Governance-area projects in close collaboration with Operations Manager.
- Support partners in the implementation of ongoing activities under the Country Programme;
- Provide quality assurance support during programme planning, implementation and progress monitoring and reporting;
- Provide timely and relevant technical and operational information in preparation of UNDP Country office’s (CO) participation in Results Groups and other development group focusing on issues of thematic and institutional linkages and coordination;
- Support the adoption and application of the 2030 agenda for development and the Sustainable Development Goals, Results Based Management (RBM), Gender Mainstreaming methods in project implementation and reporting;
- Contribution to continuous monitoring and assessment of the programme impact with special attention to potential perverse effects to political, social and economic governance including human rights, in order to inform strategy readjustments;
- Preparation of regular updates on programme component activities, outputs and outcomes as input to aggregate CO programme reports;
- Contribution to continuous risk assessment, analysis and management; identification of operational and financial problems; development of solutions and participation in programme audit planning, implementation and follow up; and
- Contribute to project closure processes for the concluding projects and transition to the new CP and projects;
- Contribute to the ongoing programming for the new CPD and projects through translating UNDP priorities, strategies and lessons learn to inform local interventions.
- Establish the framework for scanning donors’ environment to determine areas of priorities on governance with reference to institutional development and capacity strengthening (e.g., human rights and access to justice; parliamentary development; e-governance and decentralization). This is to determine country’s need, areas of cooperation and priority areas;
- Develop and implement partnerships for achieving effective resource mobilization to achieve programme outcomes;
- Establishment and coordination of partnerships with UN Agencies, international financial institutions, bilateral and multilateral donors, government institutions, organized private sector, civil society organizations and other stakeholder;.
- Determination of programmatic areas of cooperation based on strategic goals of UNDP, country needs and donor priorities;
- Analysis and research of information on donors, preparation of substantive briefs on possible areas of cooperation and identification of opportunities for cost sharing.
- Identification of sources of information related to governance policy-driven issues;
- Identification and synthesis of best practices and lessons learned directly linked to governance programme and the country development goals;
- Development of policies and institutions that will address the country problems and needs in collaboration with the Government and other strategic partners;
- Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice;
- Provision of high quality periodic analytical reports on ongoing governance-related developments for CO and Headquarters consumption.
- The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Requirements
- Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Law, Governance areas of Public Administration, Social Sciences or related field is required, or
- A first-level university degree (Bachelor´s degree) in the areas mentioned above in combination with additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be given due consideration in lieu of Master´s degree.
- Minimum 7 years (with master’s degree) or 9 years (with bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible relevant experience at the national or international level in Law, Public Sector Reform, Public Administration, Development Studies, or related field.
- Experience in governance, promoting institutional strengthening, public sector reform, gender and inclusion in line with UNDP Policies;
- Hands-on experience in design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects;
- Experience with a proven track record in resource mobilisation and partnership engagement.
- Experience working with UNDP or other UN agencies or other regional and international organizations supporting governance, Human Rights and Public Sector Reform;
- Experience on gender and inclusion;
- Experience in people management, capacity building, partnership and networking;
- Experience in conducting political economy analysis, strategic planning, resource mobilization, and policy advocacy;
- Experience in formulation of concept notes, position papers and political economy analysis and project management.
- Fluency in English and Setswana is required.
How to Apply
Job Code: 33510
About the Company
UNDP Botswana functions as the local office for this international development organisation within the country. Focused on fostering a sustainable and just future, the entity actively engages with a wide range of partners across Botswana. It serves as a platform for sharing ideas and encouraging collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address national challenges. Through these concerted initiatives, UNDP Botswana aims to implement programs that contribute significantly to the country's socio-economic progress and overall well-being. This office plays a vital role in supporting Botswana's journey towards achieving its development objectives.
Partnering for sustainable and just development in Botswana.
Website: https://www.undp.org/botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Governance Specialist role with UNDP in Botswana?
Candidates usually need a Master's degree in fields like Public Administration, Law, International Relations, or Development Studies, paired with significant experience in governance, policy, or institutional development. Demonstrated experience working with government bodies, civil society, or international organizations in Botswana or the region is highly advantageous.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Governance Specialist at UNDP in Botswana?
Daily tasks often include conducting research and analysis, preparing policy briefs, coordinating with government ministries, civil society, and other partners on governance projects. You would also monitor project implementation, provide technical advice, and contribute to capacity building initiatives focused on strengthening democratic institutions.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for a Governance Specialist within an international organization like UNDP in Botswana?
The work culture emphasizes professionalism, collaboration, and adherence to international standards and ethics. Punctuality, strong interpersonal skills, respect for local customs, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders are highly valued in Botswana.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Governance Specialist within UNDP in Botswana?
A Governance Specialist can typically advance to more senior roles such as Senior Governance Advisor, Programme Manager, or specialized lead positions within UNDP. Opportunities also exist for lateral moves into other program areas or international assignments, building upon a strong track record in Botswana.
What kind of typical benefits package can I expect as a Governance Specialist at UNDP in Botswana?
UNDP offers a competitive benefits package generally including comprehensive medical insurance, generous annual leave, and a robust pension scheme. Specifics often depend on the contractual type, grade level, and whether the position is national or international staff.
How should one apply for this role, and what do employers like UNDP look for in candidates from Botswana?
Applications are usually submitted online through the UNDP careers portal, requiring a detailed CV and a compelling cover letter demonstrating your suitability. Employers in Botswana seek candidates with relevant professional experience, strong analytical and communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to development objectives.