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Apply for the Digital Transformation and Innovation Specialist role with UNDP Rwanda. A fully funded, 12-month volunteer assignment empowering Africa’s youth through digital entrepreneurship and innovation
Overview
Are you passionate about digital innovation and youth empowerment? Here’s an exciting opportunity to make real impact in Africa’s fast-evolving tech landscape
This 12-month, fully funded volunteer assignment gives you a chance to help drive Rwanda’s digital transformation, connect with Africa’s brightest innovators, and contribute to the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
Position Details
Position Title: Digital Transformation and Innovation
Specialist
Host Entity: UNDP Rwanda
Location: Kigali, Rwanda
Type: Onsite, International UN Volunteer Specialist
Duration: 12 Months
Application Deadline: 17 November 2025
Expected Start Date: 12 January 2026
About the Mission
In 2021, UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa launched Timbuktoo, a powerful initiative to nurture youth entrepreneurship and innovation across Africa. The program accelerates the continent’s digital ecosystem by supporting scalable startups and empowering young African changemakers.
This assignment is part of UNDP Rwanda’s Digital Transformation Portfolio, which focuses on innovative financing, youth-led digital entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies that strengthen Rwanda’s digital economy.
As the Digital Transformation and Innovation Specialist, you’ll help shape the next generation of digital entrepreneurs, drive knowledge exchange between Rwanda and Japan, and contribute to the wider Timbuktoo initiative.
Key Responsibilities
1. Digital Entrepreneurship & Youth Empowerment
- Mentor and support youth-led startups in digital innovation.
- Design creative financing models (e.g., blended finance, impact investing).
- Coordinate training programs to build digital and business skills.
- Strengthen connections between Rwandan innovators and Pan-African tech ecosystems.
2. Driving Technological Innovation
- Identify and test emerging technologies for local development.
- Support pilot programs that address community challenges through innovation.
- Collaborate with investors and partners to mobilize funds for startups.
- Document lessons learned and promote best practices.
3. Building Strategic Partnerships
- Engage with government, private sector, academia, and civil society.
- Analyze digital startup financing trends in Rwanda.
- Develop proposals and partnership frameworks for new initiatives.
- Foster international cooperation, especially between Japan and Rwanda.
Qualifications and Skills
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Digital Innovation, Software
Engineering, Entrepreneurship, or related fields.
Experience:
- At least 3 years of experience in digital innovation, entrepreneurship, or financing mechanisms.
- Strong knowledge of emerging technologies and startup ecosystems.
- Familiarity with project management and impact investment approaches.
- Prior experience with UN or international development frameworks is an advantage.
Languages:
Fluent English required.
Key Competencies:
Accountability • Adaptability • Creativity • Professionalism • Teamwork •
Innovation • Integrity • Respect for Diversity
Funding Benefits
This is a fully funded UN Volunteer assignment
supported by international development partners.
Benefits typically include:
- Living allowance and health insurance coverage
- Travel support at the beginning and end of assignment
- Learning and networking opportunities within the UN system
Life in Kigali
Kigali, Rwanda’s modern and vibrant capital, is known for its safety, cleanliness, and innovation-friendly environment. With reliable transport, healthcare facilities like King Faisal Hospital, and thriving cultural spaces, it’s one of Africa’s most livable cities.
Inclusivity Statement
UNDP and the UN Volunteers Programme are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all qualified applicants — regardless of gender, age, disability, or background.
Application Tips
- Review your CV for clear alignment with digital innovation and youth entrepreneurship.
- Highlight examples where you’ve supported startups or implemented tech-based solutions.
- Prepare to discuss your ideas on scaling innovation in Africa during the interview.
FAQs
Q: Is this a paid position?
A: It’s a fully funded volunteer role with a living allowance and benefits, not
a salaried contract.
Q: Who can apply?
A: This position is open to Japanese nationals only, as it’s funded by
the Government of Japan.
Q: How do I apply?
A: You can apply directly through the UNDP Volunteer Portal
Ready to Make an Impact?
Join the movement to accelerate Rwanda’s digital future and empower young innovators across Africa.
👉 Apply Now on the UNDP Portal
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