Call for Expressions of Interest: Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa (RAF) at FAO

About the opportunity

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve food security for all. The Regular Volunteer Programme of FAO offers individuals an opportunity to contribute through volunteer initiatives that support the work of the Organization in relation to the FAO Strategic Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This call for expressions of interest specifically supports initiatives under the Regional Office for Africa (RAF). Volunteers will be assigned to a sphere relevant to FAO’s mission, performing duties specified in their terms of reference under the guidance of an assigned supervisor. Placements last for a maximum of 6 months across various locations.

Salary and benefits

• Gain professional experience and practical exposure within a specialized United Nations agency.
• Contribute directly to international food security, agricultural development, and sustainability initiatives.
• Develop cross-cultural competencies in a diverse, multicultural international working environment.
• Certificate of service upon successful completion of the volunteer assignment.

Who can apply?

• Must have completed secondary education.
• Working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset.
• Must be a citizen of an FAO Member Nation.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be able to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills.
• Must have relevant work or research experience in one of the fields of the Organization.
• Must have appropriate resident or immigrant status in the proposed duty station prior to entering the Organization.
• Candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual regime are not eligible to participate.

Required documents

• Updated online profile detailing employment background, academic degrees, and language proficiencies
• Cover letter
• Copy of academic degrees

When to apply

• Applications opened on September 21, 2026.
• The application deadline is December 31, 2026, at 22:59 UTC.

How to apply

• Visit the FAO recruitment website and complete your online candidate profile.
• Ensure your profile is complete, accurate, and includes your employment history, academic qualifications, and language skills.
• Attach your cover letter and copies of your academic degrees to your online profile.
• Submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal before the deadline.
• Wait for contact from the hiring office if you are selected for an interview.

Additional information

• FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing).
• The volunteer programme does not provide financial remuneration or a salary.
• Women, nationals of non-represented or under-represented member countries, and candidates from low-income food-deficit countries, least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states are strongly encouraged to apply.
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.