WATSAN Manager

MSF Switzerland (MSFCH) is a humanitarian medical organization providing emergency medical aid to populations in need based in Dagahaley and Mombasa County.

Duration: 12 months fixed term contract (with 3 months’ probation period)

Start Date: March 2025

The selected candidate will be reporting to the Logistic Team Leader / Project Coordinator. This position is only open to Kenyan nationals.

Main purpose

The main purpose of the WATSAN Manager in Dagahaley is to lead and manage the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene activities within the project according to MSF protocols and standards to ensure the optimal running of the project. This role is crucial for ensuring the effective planning, execution, and monitoring of WASH interventions aimed at improving overall public health outcomes. Key areas of focus include enhancing water and waste management systems, and bolstering IPC measures in MSF’s healthcare facilities and accommodations. The WATSAN Manager will play a vital role in mitigating health risks associated with outbreaks such as cholera, measles, and schistosomiasis, thus securing the well-being of both the refugee and staff populations.

Accountabilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of WASH programs, ensuring alignment with MSF’s strategic objectives and humanitarian principles.
• Supervise the WASH Supervisor (Hospital) and WASH Technician to ensure cohesive coordination across healthcare facilities, health posts, compound, and community settings.
• Oversee the Wash activities in outskirt in collaboration with Wash partners like PWJ and local entities, adhering to safety and environmental standards.
• Conduct routine assessments of water supply systems and sanitation infrastructure, implement-ing corrective measures as needed.
• Develop and implement training programs for staff on WASH protocols, PPE use, and sustain-able practices.
• Manage resources effectively, ensuring adequate supply of WASH-related materials and financial budgeting.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to integrate WASH activities with broader health initiatives and emergency response efforts.
• Implement monitoring and evaluation systems to track the effectiveness and impact of WASH interventions.
• Promote sustainable practices including water conservation and energy-efficient systems with-in MSF operations.

MSF Section/Context-Specific Accountabilities

• Implement energy efficiency initiatives (Water) in line with the compound’s solar power advancements, and advocate for similar measures in healthcare facilities to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel dependency.
• Lead WASH efforts in response to historical and potential disease outbreaks, ensuring robust IPC measures are in place at all healthcare delivery points.
• Address the sanitation challenges in the camp outskirts by coordinating urgent interventions such as latrine repairs, desludging, and community sensitization on hygiene practices Wash partners like PWJ and local entities.
• Improve current waste management processes by enhancing recycling efforts and ensuring safe disposal of medical and hazardous waste.
• Spearhead the installation of water-saving technologies to manage high consumption levels and ensure water quality through RO system maintenance.
• Work closely with logistic and procurement teams to secure resources for ongoing facility improvements, such as in the hospital laundry, maternity ward, and sterilization room.
• Facilitate ongoing improvements and proposals for IPC enhancements, ensuring they are actionable and within budget.
• Foster strong collaboration with PWJ, UNHCR, and local partners to optimize resource sharing, support continuity of care, and holistic WASH strategies in the camp.
• Conduct ongoing capacity-building activities for the WASH team and ensure all staff have access to essentials like PPE and uniforms suited to the climatic conditions.
• Establish comprehensive maintenance and auditing systems to uphold WASH and IPC standards in all areas of operation.
• Enhance waste zone security and operational standards by replacing outdated equipment and deploying protective measures for waste storage and processing.

Requirements

Education

• Academic background Diploma or bachelor’s in public health engineering /environmental science or an equivalent relevant training
• Watsan in Emergencies Training within MSF is strongly recommended

Experience

• Previous experience in technical aspects of water and sanitation works.
• Minimum of 6 months of hands-on field emergency WHS professional experience in a humanitarian or international development setting
• Desirable: Experience or familiar with implementing and promoting the use of two or more of the following activities (water supply, excreta disposal, waste and wastewater management, vector control, and dead bodies management) in two or more different contexts (conflicts, natural disasters, refugee/IDP camps, etc.)
• Desirable: public health background or experience

Languages

• Proficiency in English, Kiswahili. Speaking Somali is beneficial.

Knowledge

• Fully conversant with NEMA acts regulations
• Proficiency in one technical drawing applications

Competencies

Project management, People Management and Development, commitment to MSF Principles, behavioural Flexibility, results and Quality Orientation, Teamwork and Cooperation