Chef de la Division Affaires juridiques (AfSA)

The African Space Agency (AfSA) / African Union Commission offers a position as Head of the Legal Affairs Division. This role focuses on supporting legal frameworks and compliance within the agency’s operations. The opportunity aligns with the agency’s mission to advance space-related initiatives across African member states, emphasizing legal expertise in international and regional agreements. Applications are directed toward professionals with strong legal backgrounds and experience in space sector governance.⁠​‌​‌‌​​​​‌‌‌‌‌​​‌​​​‌‌​‌​‌‌‌​‌​​⁠

What it offers

• A position as Head of the Legal Affairs Division within the African Space Agency (AfSA) under the Commission of the African Union (AU).
• Leadership in developing and implementing legal policies for AfSA’s activities, including international treaties, regulatory frameworks, and compliance with AU directives.
• Strategic guidance on legal matters related to space exploration, partnerships, and policy alignment with Agenda 2063 and AfSA’s strategic objectives.
• Opportunity to contribute to South-South cooperation in space law and regional integration efforts.

Who can apply

Applicants must be African nationals with advanced legal expertise, preferably in space law, international treaties, or AU legal frameworks. Experience in public sector legal roles, policy development, or regional organization governance is highly valued. A PhD in Law or equivalent professional experience is strongly preferred.

What you'll do

• Oversee legal compliance for AfSA’s programs, ensuring alignment with AU legal instruments and international space law standards.
• Develop and draft legal documents, including contracts, memoranda of understanding (MoUs), and regulatory guidelines for space projects.
• Facilitate legal consultations with member states, international partners, and AfSA stakeholders on space-related legal issues.
• Coordinate with AU legal departments to integrate AfSA’s legal needs into broader AU policy frameworks.
• Lead investigations into legal disputes or compliance issues within the agency.

How to apply

• Submit a detailed application package including:
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing professional and academic experience.
  • Cover letter explaining qualifications and interest in the role.
  • Proof of advanced legal qualifications (e.g., PhD in Law, LL.M., or equivalent).
  • Letters of recommendation from legal or academic authorities.
• Apply through the official AU/AfSA recruitment portal (exact link not provided in the source).
• Ensure all documents are in English and adhere to AfSA’s formatting guidelines.

Good to know

• No application fees are charged by AfSA or the AU for this position.
• The role is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with possible travel to AU member states for consultations.
• Confidentiality and discretion are critical, especially regarding sensitive legal agreements and member state negotiations.
• The position may require working hours beyond standard office hours during critical legal or policy phases.