About the Organisation
Katiba Institute (KI) is a research and litigation institution established in 2011 with the mission of supporting the implementation of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, helping to resist efforts to undermine the Constitution, and developing a culture of constitutionalism in Kenya. It undertakes constitutional research, comments on policy and laws from a constitutional perspective, and publishes books and other material on the Constitution. Much of its work involves litigation to enforce rights under the Constitution and ensure the proper performance of constitutional duties and responsibilities. KI also fosters the spirit of constitutionalism in the East African region by promoting the exchange of academic discourse on constitutional issues and working with like-minded organisations to secure greater freedoms in the region.
This role will be part of the African Climate Legal Fellowship Programme (ACLFP), a pilot initiative aimed at bringing experienced lawyers to the environmental public interest sector in Africa and providing pathways for new talent to enter the public interest sector. In addition to the KI placement, Fellows will be part of a broader cohort benefiting from mentorship, coaching and leadership development, training in environmental and climate change law and science, and a network of likeminded lawyers in Africa. Travel within Africa for a launch convening will also be required. IREX, a global non-profit that has supported more than 50,000 Fellows over 50 years, will implement the fellowship and provide ongoing support to you and your nonprofit organization.
About the Job
The Legal Fellow- Climate Justice is a one-year fellowship that will allow an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in private practice to have the opportunity to work on climate justice issues. The Legal Fellow will be responsible for providing legal advice to members of the public, supporting local organisations, communities and community partners through capacity building, and providing technical and other support to civil society partners on matters related to climate justice. The Legal Fellow will be expected to research environmental matters specifically on climate change, share research findings with stakeholders at relevant meetings and workshops in Kenya, and assist in developing and litigating strategic litigation cases on behalf of KI. They will also be responsible for forming and maintaining good working relationships with partners, including communities, constitutional commissions, government entities, and donors.
Key Responsibilities
Engage in policy, advocacy, and strategic litigation in defence of the Constitution, specifically in furtherance of environmental and climate justice in Kenya.
Conduct KI’s litigation matters before Courts and Tribunals.
Undertake legal research, write submissions, and provide opinions on legal questions on matters in related to climate justice from communities and partners..
Provide high-quality legal advice to KI on existing and potential litigation matters.
Provide high-quality legal advice and support to KI community partners.
File and follow up on cases as may from time to time as determined by KI.
Review new and existing litigated files to create, update, or amend litigation plans.
Assist the Head of Strategic Litigation by providing legal advice and recommendations on emerging issues on climate justice.
Educate stakeholders and the public on environmental and climate justice in conjunction with the programs department.
Form and maintain good working relationships with all key partners, including communities, constitutional commissions, government entities, and donors.
Undertake all other functions as directed by the Head of Strategic Litigation that are within the mandate of the organisation and complementary to the above responsibilities.
Requirements
Legal Expertise
An undergraduate degree in law, admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a current practising certificate - a graduate degree will be an added advantage.
At least four years of work experience, post admission to the bar, with good knowledge of either commercial law, finance law, public-private partnerships, energy law and/or contract law with the ability to learn new information quickly and open to working on environmental and climate justice issues.
Experience in negotiating and developing contracts related to public-private partnerships, financing projects, or energy law is an added advantage.
Experience in conducting and managing litigation confidently with limited supervision and a sound understanding and awareness of litigation processes.
Analytical and research skills
Ability to analyse problems rigorously and from all angles, showing sound practical judgement.
Ability to grasp quickly and accurately new and complex concepts.
Ability to develop policy and advocacy ideas and proposals based on research findings and analysis.
Effective organisational skills to manage multiple tasks, prioritise work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced research environment.
Writing and communication
Exceptional writing skills with the ability to convey complex legal concepts, ideas, and issues clearly and concisely for a diverse audience. Demonstrated experience in producing well-structured and articulate documents on legal and constitutional matters.
Ability to accurately summarise and paraphrase legal texts, translating intricate legal language into clear and accessible content.
Experience conducting primary and desktop research and preparing clear and analytical reports (preferably proof of published work).
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including cultural humility, with the ability to effectively collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and present research findings to diverse audiences.
Software Proficiency
A strong command of Microsoft Word, including advanced formatting and style features, to produce well-structured and visually appealing documents. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including working with complex formulas, analysing data, and extracting meaningful insights.
Demonstrated experience with PDF editing software, including the ability to perform Optical Character Recognition (OCR), reduce file sizes, and prepare documents for publication. Familiarity with tools and techniques for ensuring document quality and professionalism.
A proactive approach to learning and utilising new software tools relevant to research and writing. The ability to quickly grasp and integrate new technologies into the research and writing process.
Meticulous attention to detail when preparing documents and data, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to established guidelines.
Language proficiency
Fluency in English and Kiswahili.
To apply
To apply, email your application by Friday 23rd August 2024 to melissa@actionappointments.co.za
