Financial Inclusion Officer – Self Help Africa Ethiopia
Employer: Self Help Africa
Job Title: Financial Inclusion Officer
Location: Kindo Kosha Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia (Office-based)
Employment Type: Full-time (Fixed-term contract – 10 months, renewable based on performance)
Career Level: Mid Level (3–5 years)
Number of Positions: 1
Application Deadline: March 13, 2026
About Self Help Africa
Founded in 1984, Self Help Africa (SHA) is an international development organization working through agriculture and agri-enterprise development to address hunger, poverty, social inequality, and climate change. SHA’s mission is to empower communities through equitable economic development, community-led approaches, and enterprise-focused solutions.
Job Purpose
The Financial Inclusion Officer will lead the implementation of financial inclusion and Business Development Services (BDS) components of SHA’s project in Kindo Kosha. The role focuses on professionalizing Village Economic and Social Associations (VESAs) and RuSACCOs, transitioning them into sustainable, farmer-led financial institutions.
Key Responsibilities
Planning, Implementation & Technical Support
- Develop and implement financial literacy activity work plans and budgets.
- Provide technical support in financial inclusion planning and implementation.
- Monitor savings and small enterprise activities.
- Identify training needs and build technical/business capacity of participants.
Institutional Strengthening (RuSACCOs & VESAs)
- Mentor leaders and committee members on bookkeeping and financial management.
- Ensure RuSACCOs follow standard accounting systems.
- Support establishment of operational procedures and monthly transaction records.
- Maintain liquidity reserves in line with regulations.
Business Development Services (BDS) & Market Linkages
- Develop BDS plans for VESAs/RuSACCOs and smallholder enterprises.
- Support updated business plans and IGAs.
- Link participants with revolving funds or microfinance providers.
Monitoring, Control & Compliance
- Monitor savings, credit, and accounting activities.
- Follow up on loan repayments to prevent defaults.
- Report irregularities such as forgery or misconduct.
Reporting & Data Management
- Maintain databases on loan disbursement and repayment.
- Document project activities, success stories, and lessons learned.
Safeguarding
- Conduct safeguarding risk assessments.
- Ensure activities are gender-sensitive, inclusive, and accessible.
- Maintain complaints and feedback mechanisms.
- Deliver safeguarding briefings and monitor field sites for risks.
Qualifications
- BA/BSc in Cooperative Accounting, Cooperative Auditing, Agricultural Economics, or related discipline.
- Minimum 3 years of relevant experience, preferably in NGOs or Cooperative Unions.
- Experience in BDS and microfinance is an advantage.
- Proven auditing and financial management skills.
- Fluency in Wolayttatto (mandatory) and good command of English.
- Proficiency in MS Excel and financial software.
- Strong ethical standards and confidentiality in handling financial matters.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package as per SHA’s policy.
- Fixed-term contract: 10 months, renewable based on performance.
How to Apply
Download and complete the application form via:
Apply Here – Self Help Africa
Submit the completed form along with your CV and motivational letter.
Deadline: March 13, 2026, 5:00 PM
Note:
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Police vetting is required.
- Women applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.