Community Liaison Officer (CLO)

About the role

The Community Liaison Officer (CLO) will act as the primary bridge between the port development project and the affected communities in Ndayane. The role ensures two‑way communication, builds trust, and helps resolve conflicts throughout the resettlement and livelihood restoration process.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and conduct regular community engagement activities with local leaders, general community members, and specific interest groups such as fisherfolk and women’s associations.
• Develop and maintain a community engagement calendar in coordination with the Social Manager and RAP Implementation Officer.
• Provide timely, accurate, and culturally appropriate information on project activities, compensation, relocation timelines, and livelihood programs.
• Support community meetings, household consultations, focus groups, and disclosure events.
• Maintain and update the stakeholder register and detailed records of all consultations, commitments, and actions.
• Prepare engagement materials (posters, notices, press releases) in appropriate languages and formats.
• Manage the community‑level grievance mechanism, ensuring accessibility for all affected and vulnerable groups.
• Receive, register, acknowledge, investigate, and facilitate resolution of grievances, coordinating with RAP and Social teams.
• Document grievances in a register with supporting evidence and provide early warning of emerging social risks.

Required profile

• Proven experience in community liaison, stakeholder engagement, or social development within infrastructure or resettlement projects.
• Familiarity with national and international safeguards (IFC Performance Standards, AfDB safeguards, EBRD requirements).
• Ability to work effectively with vulnerable groups such as fisherfolk, women’s associations, and farmers.
• Strong communication, documentation, and record‑keeping abilities.
• Fluency in English and relevant local languages.

Required skills