Media Engagement Consultant for Communication plan and implementation in Health Research, Development & Innovation
Background
The initiative aims to package and share knowledge and evidence to inform and influence advocacy, investment, policy
and diverse stakeholder engagement among sub-regional coalitions and other actors. SAHTAC’s advocacy strategy’s
objectives are stated below to:
1. Increased commitments for domestic and ODA funding for HRD&I that addresses Africa’s health priorities
2. Increased funding to research institutions for the development of the needed human capital to accelerate HRD&I in Africa, and a diversity of opportunities for technical collaboration
3. Increased uptake of health innovations, both existing and under development, that meet priority health needs for African populations
4. The initiative targets policymakers, health funders, research institutions, and public health professionals in Africa.
SAHTAC has produced several mapping studies to strengthen evidence to advocate for increased Health R&D funding, the development of the needed human capital to accelerate HRD&I in Africa and ensure the uptake of health innovations. The consultant together with the client will identify target audiences and will produce tailor made messages packaged for a suitable/appropriate media platform for dissemination.
Objective
To develop and implement a communication plan that effectively packages key messages from mapping studies, disseminates research findings to the relevant decision makers using the appropriate media platforms. Support building of strategic media partnerships, and advocates for increased commitment from decision makers investment and awareness in health research and development.
1. Develop key advocacy messages from the two Mapping studies research gaps and priorities to stakeholders, including scientists, funders, and research institutions: including websites, social media, and direct engagements.
2. Support SAHTAC identify relevant audiences for the advocacy messages for dissemination- decision makers in government (NDoH, DSI, parliamentary portfolio committee on health.
3. Identify relevant media platforms for dissemination of messages
4. The lack of visibility and understanding of the critical gaps in health research and development is a barrier to securing increased funding and commitment.
For more information contact: Sakhile Khaweka, Project Manager email: S.Khaweka@SAHTAC.org.za.
Scope of Work and deliverables:
Communication plan:
Content Creation and Dissemination:
Develop a communication plan with scope of work, timelines and clear deliverables to effectively support SAHTAC’s advocacy activities in conveying messages to target audiences.
1. Produce and Publish a Science/researcher’s charter highlighting gaps, needs and proposed strategies derived from the SAHTAC mapping study report on research gaps and capacity needs for dissemination to stakeholders.
2. Write and publish an Op-ed on the SAHTAC priority product mapping report and facilitate its dissemination in
the relevant platforms- decision makers, manufactures, regulators, researchers and scientists.
3. Organise and facilitate a webinar, -title and theme to be determined by SAHTAC and APHA -Long-acting injectable
lenacapavir.
4. Document and profile two underfunded disease areas (SAHTAC to provide more information) for advocacy, creating fact sheets and infographics. 1 Social media campaign using fact sheets targeted at decision-makers.
5. Organise 2 radio or Tv interviews with key scientists/researchers and officials from NDoH or DSI identified by SAHTAC to highlighting gaps, needs and proposed strategies, commitments.
6. Develop a media engagement strategy outlining approaches for different platforms (traditional, digital, social media) and key media outlets.
Timeline:
The consultancy will be conducted over a period of 6 weeks, starting from 1 8 September to 31 October with key deliverables due at specified intervals throughout the contract.
Qualifications:
• Proven experience in developing and implementing communication strategies, particularly in health research and development.
• Strong track record in media engagement and strategic partnership building.
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• ·Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, government officials, and media.
• Experience with digital tools for media engagement and social media analytics is essential.
• Proficiency in both English and local languages spoken in the target regions is preferred.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a proposal including a detailed methodology, timeline, budget, and relevant experience to Sakhile Khaweka. skhaweka@auruminstitute.org by 10 September 2024.
Evaluation Criteria:
Relevance and depth of experience in communication strategy development and media engagement. Quality and feasibility of the proposed methodology and timeline. Cost-effectiveness of the proposal. Demonstrated ability to deliver similar projects successfully. This term of reference outlines the consultant’s role and responsibilities, aiming to enhance the visibility and impact of health research and development efforts through strategic communication and partnership activities.
