Deadline: 26-Feb-2026
UNICEF Djibouti has launched a call for tenders to implement a skills development and professional integration program for out-of-school girls aged 16 to 24 in rural regions. Funded by the French Development Agency (AFD), the initiative supports education, employability, and youth empowerment, with an indicative budget of 100,000.
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Djibouti is inviting applications through a call for tenders to implement a targeted skills development program aimed at improving the professional integration of out-of-school girls.
This initiative forms part of UNICEF Djibouti’s broader efforts to address youth unemployment, gender inequality, and limited access to decent work opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
Program Overview
The call for tenders supports the implementation of a multi-sectoral skills development initiative focused on empowering adolescent girls and young women who are currently out of school.
The program seeks to strengthen employability, promote self-employment, and enhance community engagement while responding to local labor market needs.
Indicative Budget
• Total budget: 100,000
• Funding source: French Development Agency (AFD)
Key Focus Areas
The initiative targets multiple, interconnected development priorities.
Primary focus areas include:
• Education and adolescent skills development
• Employability and self-employment for out-of-school girls
• Strengthening professional and life skills aligned with local markets
• Increasing youth volunteer participation in community activities
• Reducing unemployment among girls in rural regions
• Promoting workforce integration at the regional council level
Strategic Context: UNICEF Djibouti 2025–2029 Program
Education is a central pillar of UNICEF Djibouti’s 2025–2029 country program, alongside child survival, child development, and child protection.
Through close cooperation with the Government of Djibouti, particularly the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFOP), UNICEF aims to:
• Improve access to quality education for all children
• Reach vulnerable groups, including refugees and nomadic populations
• Support youth transition from education to decent employment
Djibouti’s labor market faces structural challenges, including high youth unemployment and the concentration of job opportunities in Djibouti City, which drives internal migration and limits opportunities in rural areas.
SEFA Project and Target Population
This call for tenders is implemented under the SEFA project, specifically its third component focusing on girls’ education and empowerment.
Target Group
• Out-of-school girls aged 16 to 24
• Living in rural regions, including:
– Ali Sabieh
– Dikhil
– Obock
Key Challenges Identified
Regional assessments highlight several barriers faced by young girls and women:
• High youth unemployment rates
• School dropouts and low re-enrolment
• Limited access to vocational and skills training
• Socio-cultural barriers to girls’ empowerment
• Restricted employment opportunities for youth with disabilities
Program Approach and Intervention Model
The SEFA project adopts an inclusive, multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes local ownership and sustainability.
Core elements of the approach include:
• Mobilizing local authorities and regional councils
• Engaging community-based organizations and civil society
• Aligning training content with local market needs
• Providing internships and volunteer placements
• Supporting pathways to employment and self-employment
Volunteer programs and internships are designed to reflect the aspirations of young people while strengthening practical, job-ready skills.
Who Can Apply?
This call for tenders is open to qualified organizations with relevant experience.
Eligible Organizations
• Civil society organizations
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Community-based organizations
• Other eligible entities with experience in youth, education, or skills development
Applicants should demonstrate the capacity to work in rural settings and to implement inclusive programs targeting adolescent girls.
Why This Initiative Matters
This program addresses critical development gaps affecting young women in Djibouti.
It matters because it:
• Promotes gender equality and girls’ economic empowerment
• Reduces rural youth unemployment
• Strengthens local labor markets and community resilience
• Expands access to skills training beyond urban centers
• Supports inclusive development, including for youth with disabilities
By investing in girls’ skills and employability, the initiative contributes to long-term social and economic stability.
How the Call for Tenders Works
Implementation Focus
Selected organizations will be responsible for:
• Designing and delivering skills training programs
• Facilitating internships and volunteer placements
• Coordinating with local stakeholders
• Supporting professional integration outcomes
• Monitoring participation and results
Funding Modality
• Activities are funded through AFD resources
• Budget use must align with approved project objectives
• Clear reporting and accountability mechanisms are required
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Organizations applying should avoid the following:
• Proposing activities not aligned with the target age group
• Failing to address rural or gender-specific barriers
• Weak linkage between training and local employment opportunities
• Limited inclusion of community or local stakeholders
• Insufficient consideration of youth with disabilities
Tips for a Strong Proposal
• Clearly demonstrate understanding of local labor market needs
• Show experience working with adolescent girls and youth
• Propose practical, outcome-oriented training models
• Integrate volunteerism and internships meaningfully
• Highlight inclusive and rights-based approaches
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is leading this initiative?
The program is led by UNICEF Djibouti in partnership with national and local stakeholders.
Who funds the call for tenders?
The initiative is funded by the French Development Agency (AFD).
What is the target age group?
Out-of-school girls aged 16 to 24 living in rural areas.
Which regions are prioritized?
Ali Sabieh, Dikhil, and Obock.
What types of activities are expected?
Skills training, internships, volunteer programs, and employability support aligned with local market needs.
Is education a core component of the program?
Yes. Education and skills development are central pillars of UNICEF Djibouti’s 2025–2029 program.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Djibouti call for tenders represents a strategic investment in the education, skills, and economic empowerment of out-of-school girls in rural areas. By combining skills development, volunteerism, and professional integration, the initiative aims to reduce unemployment, strengthen communities, and expand opportunities for young women.
Organizations with relevant expertise are encouraged to apply and contribute to sustainable, inclusive development outcomes for girls and youth in Djibouti.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.
