COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT

Organization: Anti-Tobacco Network (ATN)
Project:  Clean Air Botswana: Fast-Tracking Tobacco Control Regulations for a Healthier Generation
Location: Gaborone, Botswana
Duration: 12 Months Fixed Term Contract (Full-Time) subject to extension based on performance and funding
Start Date: 01 June 2026
Application Deadline:  25 May 2026, 23:59 CAT
Reporting To: Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
Open To: This position is open to citizens of Botswana only.

1. ABOUT THE ANTI TOBACCO NETWORK (ATN)

The Anti-Tobacco Network (ATN) is a vibrant non-profit organization established in 2011 hosted at the University of Botswana. ATN is dedicated to combating tobacco use, non-communicable diseases and premature deaths, affecting vulnerable populations like the youth, women and children. Our work focusses on advocacy for impactful policy change, community mobilization, evidence-based interventions aligned with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC). At ATN, you will collaborate with a dedicated team focused on driving impactful advocacy, community mobilization, and fostering healthier futures for vulnerable populations across Botswana.

2. ABOUT THE ROLE

ATN is launching the Clean Air Botswana: Fast-Tracking Tobacco Control Regulations for a Healthier Generation , a 12-month advocacy campaign aimed at:

• Advancing the implementation of tobacco control policies in Botswana.
• Strengthening the enforcement of existing tobacco laws
• Building momentum for stronger, evidence-based measures to protect the health of all Batswana.

3. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Content Creation & Storytelling

• Develop high-quality content across multiple platforms, including
  • Press releases,
  • Opinion pieces,
  • Newsletters,
  • social media posts,
  • The ATN website
• Write and edit success stories, field reports, and human-interest features that showcase the impact of tobacco control interventions within communities
• Translate complex policy language and MPOWER technical content into accessible, compelling messages aimed at diverse audiences, ensuring clarity and understanding of tobacco control initiatives

Digital Media & Brand Management

• Manage and grow ATN’s social media presence, ensuring consistent messaging and branding aligned with project and donor requirements
• Monitor online conversations related to tobacco control in Botswana and proactively engage with stakeholders to foster dialogue and feedback
• Design basic graphics, infographics, and visual components to support advocacy campaigns, particularly around key dates such as World No Tobacco Day

Advocacy & Campaign Support

• Work under the support of the Programs Manager to implement communication strategies supporting MPOWER initiatives including, including campaigns promoting policies smoke-free public places and tobacco taxation
• Facilitate planning and publicizing ATN events, workshops, and stakeholder meetings in Gaborone and adjacent communities
• Prepare comprehensive media kits and briefing materials for journalists and partners

Monitoring, Documentation & Reporting

• Establishing and maintain a digital media library of ATN activities, ensuring proper consent and storage protocols
• Track media mentions and social media analytics to report on communication reach and engagement
• Document lessons learned and best practices from field activities to contribute to ongoing knowledge sharing and programme improvement

Field Engagement

• Collaborate closely with Community Health Mobilisers to capture authentic stories and visuals that reflect  community-level activities and intervention
• Participate in occasional local travel within Botswana to document field activities and events, thereby contributing to the visibility and understanding of tobacco control efforts in the regions served.

4.     REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

 Education:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field

Experience:

• At least 2 years of relevant experience in a communications, content creation or public relations preferably in a health or public advocacy context
• Demonstrated experience in managing social media platforms, developing content for diverse audiences, and engaging with stakeholders effectively.

Content Creation Skills:

• Proven ability to write and edit high quality content across various platforms including press releases, newsletters, social media, and website content.
• Experience in crafting success stories and human-interest pieces that convey complex information in an accessible manner

 Digital Media Proficiency:

• Familiarity with social media management tools and analytics to monitor engagement and reach
• Basic graphic design skills with knowledge of tools such as Canva, Adobe illustrator, or similar software for creating infographics and visual content
• Basic photography and videography skills (smartphone or DSLR)
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks against tight deadlines
• Familiarity with public health, advocacy communications, or non-communicable disease prevention (desirable)

Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including community members and health professionals.

Field Engagement

• Willingness and ability to travel within Botswana to document community-level activities and interventions.

5.     HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates who meet the specified qualifications are invited to submit their applications by providing the following documents in a single PDF file:

1. Cover Letter
   • A maximum of one page detailing your suitability for the role at ATN and your interest in tobacco control advocacy.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • A comprehensive CV that includes three (3) contactable referees who can provide insights on your professional qualifications and character.
3. Certified Academic Certificates
   • A certified copy of all relevant academic qualifications.
4. National ID
   • A certified copy of your National ID (Omang).
5. Work Samples
   • Two (2) samples of your work, which may include:
     • A link to a social media campaign,
     • A written article or press release, or
     • A graphic design sample that showcases your skills.

5.     SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

Please ensure all documents are compiled into a single PDF file and send your application to antitobacconetwork@gmail.com

Subject Line: Application: Communications Assistant – ATN

Closing Date: 25 May 2026, 23:59 CAT

Anti Tobacco Network is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from qualified women and youth. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.