What's Happening?
Oxfam GB in Myanmar is actively recruiting a Programme Manager for its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives. This national-level position, based in Yangon with frequent travel to Sittwe, is critical for providing strategic, technical, and operational
leadership to Oxfam’s humanitarian WASH program. The manager will oversee the planning, implementation, quality assurance, and resource management of WASH services for internally displaced people and host communities. A key focus of the role is to advance localization efforts by strengthening community-led WASH approaches, building the capacity of local partners, and promoting community ownership for sustainable services. The position also involves ensuring that interventions are responsive to community needs, adhere to humanitarian standards, and align with Oxfam’s values and donor commitments.
Why It's Important?
This role is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of humanitarian aid in Myanmar, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Sittwe. By prioritizing localized and community-led WASH solutions, Oxfam aims to empower local populations and ensure that services are culturally appropriate and long-lasting. The Programme Manager will play a pivotal role in strengthening the capacity of local partners and community structures, which is essential for building resilience and reducing dependency on external aid. This approach not only improves public health outcomes but also fosters greater self-reliance and ownership within affected communities, aligning with global best practices in humanitarian response and development.
What's Next?
Early applications are encouraged for the Programme Manager (WASH) position, as Oxfam reserves the right to appoint a suitable candidate as soon as identified. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the planning and implementation of Oxfam's humanitarian WASH program in Sittwe, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to program objectives. They will also be tasked with monitoring program performance, identifying challenges, and implementing corrective actions. Furthermore, the manager will coordinate with consortium partners and other stakeholders to ensure a harmonized approach to WASH interventions and contribute to broader resilience initiatives. The role requires a strong commitment to Oxfam’s feminist leadership principles and safeguarding policies.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on localization and community-led approaches in this role signifies a broader shift in humanitarian aid towards more sustainable and equitable models. This strategy recognizes that empowering local actors is key to addressing complex humanitarian challenges effectively and respectfully. By building the capacity of local partners and fostering community ownership, Oxfam is working to create lasting change that extends beyond immediate relief efforts. This approach also highlights the importance of integrating gender-responsive and conflict-sensitive programming, ensuring that WASH interventions are inclusive and address the specific needs of vulnerable populations, including women, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced people.
