FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa 2026: Applications Open for the United Nations Volunteer Opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) invites eligible candidates to apply for the FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa 2026. This non-staff opportunity allows individuals to support international efforts against hunger and food insecurity.
Overview
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa 2026 offers individuals a chance to contribute their knowledge, research background, and professional skills to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Operating under Vacancy Announcement No. 2600018, this non-staff volunteer opportunity provides assignments lasting up to a maximum of six months in various locations. Participants support areas connected to FAO's mandate, including agriculture, food security, nutrition, and sustainable development.
Please note that this is an unpaid volunteer programme. FAO explicitly states that volunteers do not receive remuneration, and candidates are responsible for ensuring they possess the appropriate residence or immigration status for their country of assignment before joining.
Eligibility
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Must have completed secondary school education and provide a copy of academic qualifications.
- Nationality: Must be nationals of FAO Member countries.
- Language: Required working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish). Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an advantage.
- Competencies: Must possess good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an international multicultural environment.
- Experience: Relevant working or research experience in an FAO field is valued.
- Restrictions: Candidates with specific immediate family members (mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, son) currently employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are ineligible.
Benefits
While the programme is unpaid and provides no financial remuneration, selected volunteers gain professional experience working within a specialized agency of the United Nations. Participants contribute directly to global initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable agri-food systems and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted formally through the official online recruitment portal. Applicants should complete the following steps:
- Visit the official Jobs at FAO recruitment website and locate Vacancy Announcement No. 2600018.
- Create or update your online FAO profile with accurate employment history, educational background, and language skills.
- Prepare and attach a letter of motivation detailing your reasons for applying and relevance to FAO's mission.
- Attach copies of your academic qualifications matching your profile details.
- Thoroughly review your complete application and submit it through the portal before the deadline.
Deadline
The application deadline is August 26, 2026, at 9:59 AM, based on the date and time settings of the applicant's personal device. Candidates are strongly advised to apply well in advance to avoid technical issues.