Volunteer | Internship | Job Vacancies at Buni Banda

We are excited to announce new opportunities at Buni Banda! We are looking for talented and passionate individuals to join our team and help us drive meaningful impact.

We are looking for individuals to join our team in the following roles:
1. Senior Systems Developer (C3-EWS project)
2. Junior ICT Specialist (C3-EWS project)
3. Business Development Manager
4. Volunteers: Grants & Partnerships Associate
5. Volunteers: Marketing, Communications & Branding

1. Senior Systems Developer – Community-Centric Climate Early Warning System (C3-EWS) Project

Background

The Community-Centric Climate Early Warning System (C3-EWS) is a multidisciplinary initiative aimed at building predictive, participatory, and contextually relevant systems to anticipate and respond to multi-hazard climate-health risks in the Lake Victoria Basin, with a pilot in Siaya County, Kenya.

The digital platform will integrate predictive models, field sensor data, weather and health surveillance data, and community-defined thresholds into a modular early warning dashboard. The Senior Developer will work closely with a modeling consultant, study coordinator, statistician.

Objectives
To design, develop, test, and deploy a scalable, modular, offline-capable, and user-friendly multi- hazard early warning platform (EWS), integrating validated predictive models, real-time field inputs, and community-derived thresholds for localized alerts and decision support.

Scope of Responsibilities
A. System Architecture & Design (Led by Senior Developer)
● Design the overall software system architecture, including backend, frontend, API layers, databases, and data pipelines.
● Ensure the architecture supports modularity for multiple hazards (e.g., malaria, flooding, heatwaves, droughts).
● Plan for future scalability to other counties or thematic modules (e.g., nutrition, mental health).

B. Data Integration (Senior Developer leads; ICT Specialist supports data ingestion and formatting)
● Integrate predictive models delivered by the Modeling Consultant (e.g., Python scripts, R models, ML algorithms).
● Coordinate ingestion of external data sources, including:
o Meteorological data from Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) or IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC)
o Field-based environmental sensors (e.g., SwitchBot temperature/humidity sensors, OTT/Adcon NetDL loggers)
o Health data from Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) including daily malaria case data and mosquito vector density o National surveillance platforms (e.g., DHIS2: District Health Information Software 2)
● Supervise ICT Specialist/Programmer in setting up data pipelines, cron jobs, and offline syncing protocols.

C. Logic & Alert System (Senior Developer leads; ICT Specialist supports validation)
● Encode logic for multi-source, multi-trigger alerts (e.g., a combination of rainfall + malaria incidence threshold).
● Translate community-defined thresholds and scientific thresholds into operational rules.
● Collaborate with the Study Coordinator to ensure alerts are practical and context- appropriate.

D. Interface Development (ICT Specialist leads; supervised by Senior Developer)
● Guide the Junior ICT Specialist in developing user dashboards and interfaces for different roles: o Community Health Volunteers (CHVs)
o Facility health workers
o County disease surveillance teams
o Meteorological focal points
● Ensure UI/UX design is responsive (mobile-first), intuitive, and optimized for low connectivity contexts.
● Oversee usability testing and rapid iteration.

E. Deployment & Maintenance (Senior Developer leads)
● Deploy platform on a secure cloud server (e.g., Google Cloud Platform, AWS, or local host institution).
● Implement Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipeline.
● Ensure routine backups, disaster recovery plans, and basic analytics dashboards for system monitoring.
● Provide up to 3 months of technical support and patching post-deployment.

F. Collaboration and Capacity Building (Joint responsibility)
● Mentor the Junior ICT Specialist with weekly task reviews.
● Coordinate with:
o Modeling Consultant (model integration and thresholds)
o Statistician (especially for Community Resilience Index or CRI)
o Study Coordinator (barazas, stakeholder needs)
● Conduct handover workshops, co-create system documentation, and provide training.

G. Documentation and Handover (Senior Developer leads; ICT Specialist supports)
● Prepare comprehensive documentation, including:
o System architecture diagram o API documentation
o Deployment manual o User manuals and training slide decks
● Supervise the ICT Specialist in preparing onboarding videos and SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
● Ensure full transfer of source code, cloud credentials, and Git repository access to project leads.

2. Junior ICT Specialist (Hybrid Developer & Systems Support)

Position Title: Junior ICT Specialist
Reports To: Senior Systems Developer
Project: Community-Centric Climate Early Warning System (C3-EWS)
Location: Siaya, Nairobi, and Remote Work as Required
Contract Type: Short-Term Consultancy
Duration: 6 months with possible extension

Overview
The Junior ICT Specialist will support the development, deployment, and maintenance of the C3-EWS digital platform. This hybrid role combines software development, ICT integration, and basic systems/server administration. The role is designed to build local capacity, enable iterative design, and ensure robust system operations in field and cloud environments. The role requires someone comfortable coding, integrating with APIs, managing basic cloud environments, and supporting implementation in diverse infrastructure settings. The Junior ICT Specialist will work under the close supervision of the Senior Systems Developer and collaborate with other project staff including GIS specialists, enumerators, and the study coordinator.

Key Responsibilities
A. Software Development & Data Integration
● Support front-end development using frameworks such as React, Vue, or HTML/CSS/JavaScript.
● Implement and test back-end logic using Python, Node.js, or equivalent.
● Assist in API integration with external platforms (e.g., DHIS2, OpenWeatherMap, ODK).
● Support spatial data visualization using tools like Leaflet or Mapbox.
● Troubleshoot bugs, debug system errors, and conduct routine code reviews.
● Assist in preparing mobile-optimized interfaces and offline-first capabilities.

B. ICT & Digital Systems Support
● Assist with field deployment, testing, and refinement of early warning dashboards.
● Configure interoperability with systems such as DHIS2, KoboToolbox, SurveyCTO.
● Provide ICT support during community barazas and end-user testing.
● Support local data integration from SwitchBot, Garmin, NetDL, or sensor data.
● Help maintain internal documentation, UI/UX testing logs, and deployment guides.

C. Server & System Management
● Support setup and maintenance of local and cloud-based servers (e.g., AWS, Firebase, DigitalOcean).
● Monitor server uptime, troubleshoot hosting issues, and manage access control.
● Implement basic security, backup, and patch protocols.
● Set up and monitor system logs, error tracking, and usage stats.
● Help manage deployment workflows (e.g., GitHub Actions, Firebase CI/CD).

D. Collaboration & Learning
● Participate in weekly sprint meetings with the technical team.
● Work closely with the Senior Developer to learn architecture and deployment logic.
● Collaborate with field teams to improve user feedback loops.
● Document work clearly for future use by non-technical stakeholders.

Qualifications
Required:
● Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
● At least 1–2 years of hands-on experience in web/app development (can include internship or freelance work).
● Demonstrated ability to deploy simple web apps or dashboards.
● Familiarity with HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and one backend language (e.g., Python).
● Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Firebase, or equivalent).
● Willingness to learn and work in interdisciplinary, field-based environments.

Desirable:
● Familiarity with GIS platforms or spatial data.
● Prior experience working with research, public health, or early warning systems.
● Experience working with version control systems (e.g., Git).
● Knowledge of SMS integration, chatbot interfaces, or offline-first design.

Duration & Reporting
● This is a full-time consultancy expected to last 6 months.
● The consultant will report to the Senior Systems Developer.
● Monthly check-ins will include technical deliverables and learning objectives.

Remuneration

Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Payment will be structured in monthly instalments based on deliverables and supervisor approval.

Growth & Capacity Building
This role is designed to build in-country technical capacity for climate-health systems. The Junior ICT Specialist will receive mentorship from the Senior Developer and have opportunities to:
● Learn full-stack development workflows
● Understand climate-health data integration
● Work on real-world deployments in Kenyan counties

Expected Deliverables
1. Month 1: Familiarization with project architecture; setup of local development environment and cloud staging server; participation in design sprints.
2. Month 2: Implementation of front-end mockups and API testing with simulated data; configuration of user authentication system.
3. Month 3: Integration of real-time sensor data (e.g., rainfall, indoor temp); support in deploying mobile-first interface.
4. Month 4: Interoperability layer tested with DHIS2 and KoboToolbox; log system implemented; backup scripts configured.
5. Month 5: Deployment support for pilot barazas; UI refinements based on community feedback; localization (language & layout).
6. Month 6: Final system optimization; documentation finalized; full transition plan to local stakeholders.
Each deliverable will be reviewed during a sprint review with the Senior Systems Developer and the study team.

3. Business Development Manager

Reports To: Project Director
Direct Reports: None
Workstation: Nairobi
Working Conditions: Retainer Model

Job Purpose

The Business Development Manager is responsible for generating revenue and driving growth by securing new clients, expanding partnerships, and promoting Buni Banda’s training and consulting solutions. This role requires proactive sales engagement, market research, and strategic collaboration with the marketing team to ensure alignment with business objectives. The position is performance-driven, with a strong emphasis on achieving and exceeding revenue targets.

Key Roles

Revenue Generation & Business Development
Market Research & Needs Assessment
Client Relationship Management
Strategic Marketing Collaboration

Responsibilities

Revenue Generation & Business Development

Proactively identify and pursue new revenue opportunities through field visits, networking, referrals, and industry events.
Convert qualified leads into paying clients through persuasive pitching, tailored solutions, and contract negotiation.
Drive repeat business and upselling opportunities to maximize client lifetime value.
Achieve and exceed monthly/quarterly sales and revenue targets set by the Project Director.

Market Research & Needs Assessment

Analyze industry trends, competitor activities, and market gaps.
Conduct research to identify training and consulting demands across sectors.
Develop customized solutions aligned with client needs and business goals.
Provide actionable market insights to shape marketing and product development.

Client Relationship Management

Build, maintain, and strengthen client relationships to ensure satisfaction and long-term engagement.
Implement client retention strategies to encourage renewals and repeat purchases.
Act as the key point of contact for assigned clients.

Strategic Marketing Collaboration

Share market insights to support the design of impactful campaigns.
Represent Buni Banda at industry conferences, exhibitions, and networking events.
Collaborate with the marketing team to align sales efforts with promotional activities.

Job Competencies

Educational Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Sales, Marketing, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Experience

Minimum of 5 years in business development, sales, or marketing, with a proven track record of revenue generation.

Core Competencies

Revenue Accountability – Demonstrated ability to consistently meet or exceed sales and revenue targets.
Sales & Negotiation Skills – Strong skills in prospecting, pitching, closing deals, and contract negotiation.
Market Analysis – Ability to assess market gaps, conduct needs assessments, and translate insights into actionable solutions.
Client Relationship Management – Ability to build trust, manage long-term client relationships, and drive repeat business.
Communication & Presentation – Skilled in delivering persuasive pitches and presenting to diverse stakeholders.
Strategic Thinking – Ability to align business development activities with organizational strategy.
Collaboration – Experience working with marketing and cross-functional teams to deliver joint outcomes.
Resilience & Initiative – Self-driven with the ability to thrive under pressure and in target-driven environments.

4. Volunteers: Grants & Partnerships Associate

Join Buni Banda in driving innovation and social impact!

Are you curious about how organizations secure funding, build partnerships, and create impact at scale?
Buni Banda is seeking a Grants & Partnerships Associate (Volunteer) to support our team in identifying funding opportunities, strengthening relationships with partners, and supporting grant applications.

This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in resource mobilization and partnerships within the consulting and social impact sector.

What You’ll Do

Research open calls, grants, and donor opportunities.
Track and summarize relevant RFPs, EOIs, and funding databases.
Support drafting and assembling grant proposals.
Help identify potential partners for consortium applications.
Maintain records of grant opportunities and partnership engagement.
Provide light support in meetings and follow-ups with prospective partners.

What We’re Looking For

Interest in grant writing, fundraising, and partnerships.
Strong research and writing skills.
Organized and detail-oriented with ability to track multiple opportunities.
A proactive learner, eager to understand donor and partner landscapes.

What You’ll Gain

Hands-on experience in grants research, writing, and partnership-building.
Exposure to donor relations and business development in the consulting/social impact space.
Mentorship and capacity-building with Buni Banda’s leadership.
A certificate of service and professional reference upon successful completion.

Commitment

2–3 days per week (flexible scheduling).
Based in Nairobi (hybrid) or remote with regular check-ins.
Placement period: 3–6 months (with possibility of extension).

5. Volunteers: Marketing, Communications & Branding

Join Buni Banda in driving innovation and social impact!

Are you passionate about storytelling, creativity, and making a difference?
Buni Banda is seeking a Marketing, Communications, and Branding Volunteer to support our growing team.

This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in marketing and communications while helping position Buni Banda as a thought leader in design, research, and social impact across Africa.