Job Summary
The Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer will lead community engagement, oversee responsible Digital Health/AI communications and ensure transparent and ethical communication of Digital Health/AI-related initiatives.
Job Title: Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer x1
Job Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Closing Date: 16 July 2026
Contract: Full Time
This role is central to bridging communities, researchers, implementers and policy actors through impactful participatory engagement, storytelling and responsible innovation.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Communications
- Closing Date: 2026-07-16
Key Responsibilities
- Lead efforts to promote PACE’s responsible, ethical and inclusive Digital Health/AI practices in all forms of communication.
- Serve as the focal point for Digital Health/AI communications, collaborating with technical teams to translate complex concepts into accessible narratives.
- Collaborate with community groups to promote transparency and enhance public understanding of Digital Health/AI tools and associated risk mitigation strategies.
- Track and analyse global developments in Digital Health/AI ethics, governance and regulatory frameworks, and provide regular reports on their implications for PACE.
- Develop internal guidelines and content that support ethical Digital Health/AI practices, emphasising fairness, transparency and accountability across PACE’s initiatives.
- Design and implement community engagement strategies that build trust and participation in Digital Health/AI-supported tools.
- Plan and facilitate inclusive dialogue forums, roadshows, workshops and feedback sessions with diverse community stakeholders.
- Co-create content and campaigns with communities, amplifying local voices and knowledge.
- Collect and analyse community feedback to inform programme design and policy engagement.
- Establish and strengthen community partnerships that foster project adoption, drive innovation and promote local ownership of Digital Health/AI initiatives.
- Support the Communications Specialist in promoting internal and external communications related to VimbAI.
- Create compelling content including success stories, policy briefs and multimedia.
- Manage digital platforms (social media, website, podcasts) to engage broader audiences with CeSHHAR’s Digital Health/AI work on PACE.
- Coordinate media outreach, brief journalists and organise press engagements on ethical Digital Health/AI in health.
- Collaborate with the Communications Specialist in supporting PACE researchers in communicating findings for diverse audiences, from policymakers to grassroots activists.
- Track communication metrics, social media analytics and engagement indicators to improve strategies.
- Contribute to donor reporting, impact assessments and learning reviews.
- Participate in multi-country and global learning platforms to position CeSHHAR as a leader in community-driven Digital Health/AI.
- Ensure alignment of all communications with CeSHHAR’s mission, values and branding guidelines.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Engagement, Social Sciences, Digital Health/AI Ethics or related field. Master’s degree is an advantage.
- Minimum 3 years of post-qualification experience in public engagement, communications or programme outreach – preferably in public health, technology or rights-based programming.
- Demonstrated experience engaging diverse communities and facilitating participatory processes.
- Strong understanding of Digital Health/AI ethics, responsible innovation or digital rights in a Global South context.
- Excellent written, visual and verbal communication skills in English; Shona or Ndebele an asset.
- Proficiency in digital tools (social media, Mailchimp, CMS, Canva/Adobe Creative Suite).
- Experience managing events, campaigns and stakeholder engagement.
How to Apply
Apply online: forms.cloud.microsoftpZ2QfUacGGXQMo-HV5Z7SOdBLkQ9QIi4zKctUMVJTVjhCODZWRUdCOUlQNzU2MlFWMFZaSy4u&route=shorturl
About the Company
CeSHHAR Zimbabwe, formally known as the Centre for Sexual Health, HIV and AIDS Research Zimbabwe, operates within the country. This organization is dedicated to advancing public health outcomes through focused research in sexual health, HIV, and AIDS. Its mission extends to promoting health and wellbeing for all individuals across Africa and beyond, with a critical operational base in Zimbabwe. The centre's work contributes significantly to understanding and addressing these health challenges directly impacting Zimbabwean communities. Through its research initiatives, CeSHHAR Zimbabwe plays a crucial role in improving health services and policies in the region.
Health and wellbeing for all in Africa and beyond
Website: https://ceshhar.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically required for a Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer role in Zimbabwe?
A Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Health, Information Technology, or a related field is commonly sought. Employers also look for practical experience in managing digital platforms, social media, and engaging with communities on health topics. Relevant certifications in digital marketing or project management can also be advantageous.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks often involve developing and disseminating health-related content across digital channels and social media platforms. You would also be responsible for engaging with the public online and offline, gathering feedback, and supporting health campaigns. This role also typically involves monitoring digital trends and reporting on engagement metrics to inform strategies.
What is the typical work culture and professional expectation for a role like this in a Zimbabwean public health organization?
The work culture in Zimbabwean public health organizations emphasizes collaboration, resourcefulness, and a strong commitment to community impact. Professionals are expected to be adaptable, proactive, and demonstrate high levels of professionalism and cultural sensitivity in their engagement efforts. Punctuality and respect for hierarchical structures are also generally valued.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer in Zimbabwe?
Career progression often leads to senior officer roles, project management positions, or specialization in specific areas like digital health strategy or monitoring and evaluation. Opportunities may also arise to move into coordination roles within larger public health programs or transition to international NGOs. Continuous learning and networking are key for advancing in this field.
What typical benefits package can a Digital Health and Public Engagement Officer expect in Zimbabwe?
A typical benefits package often includes paid annual leave, sick leave, and potentially a medical aid contribution. Some organizations may offer a pension scheme or life assurance, though this can vary significantly depending on the employer. Opportunities for professional development and training are also common benefits.
What is the typical application process, and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in candidates for this role?
The application process usually involves submitting a detailed CV and a compelling cover letter, followed by interviews and sometimes practical assessments. Employers in Zimbabwe look for strong communication skills, a proven ability to manage digital platforms, and a deep understanding of local health contexts and community engagement strategies. Demonstrating initiative and problem-solving abilities is also highly valued.