Policy Officer, Department of Economic Development and Tourism

About the role

Three-year fixed-term P-3 position at the African Union Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa. The Policy Officer supports the Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Mining on policy briefs, member-state consultations, and the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Application deadline 15 July 2026.

Responsibilities

• Research, draft, and finalise policy briefs and position papers on economic development priorities of the AU.
• Coordinate member-state consultations on flagship initiatives (AfCFTA, Africa Mining Vision, PIDA).
• Liaise with regional economic communities (ECOWAS, EAC, SADC, COMESA, ECCAS, AMU, CEN-SAD, IGAD).
• Support drafting of decisions and declarations for AU Summit meetings.
• Represent the Department in international forums on African economic integration.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in economics, public policy, international relations, development studies, or a closely related field.
• Five to seven years of progressive professional experience in policy work or economic development.
• AU member-state national. Equitable geographic and gender representation is a priority.
• Fluent English. Working knowledge of Arabic, French, or Portuguese is welcomed (one of these is often required for the post).
• Strong drafting skills demonstrated through published policy work or technical reports.

Nice to have

• PhD in economics or public policy.
• Prior AU Commission, regional economic community, or member-state government experience.
• Experience leading multi-stakeholder negotiations.
• Familiarity with AU Agenda 2063 and its 10-year implementation plans.

How to apply

Open the African Union careers portal at the apply link, search for “Policy Officer Economic Development”, and submit through the AU recruitment system. Submit CV, cover letter, AU Personal History Form, and three references. Closing date 15 July 2026 at 23:59 East Africa Time.