Consultant for Noncommunicable Diseases, Mental Health and Violence and Injuries

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees. WHO's primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, focusing on universal health coverage, health emergencies, and promoting healthier populations.

Job Overview:
The position involves working within the Noncommunicable Diseases, Mental Health, and Violence and Injuries (NCD/MH) team at the WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO). The consultant will collaborate with Member States and partners to enhance the prevention and management of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health disorders. This includes developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating multisectoral actions aimed at reducing mortality, morbidity, and disabilities associated with these health issues. The consultant will focus on various NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental disorders, while also addressing violence and injuries through a Primary Health Care (PHC) approach. The role requires extensive knowledge in integrated NCD management, strategic information, and surveillance, as well as specific areas of expertise such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and more. The consultant will be expected to provide technical assistance, develop national strategies, and support the implementation of health programs that align with WHO guidelines and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of duties including:

• Improving the management and delivery of NCD services within health systems, ensuring continuity of care from prevention to treatment and rehabilitation.
• Supporting the development of integrated approaches to optimize service delivery models and ensure equitable access to essential NCD services.
• Analyzing complex NCD datasets to produce insights that inform national and regional strategies.
• Providing technical expertise in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of specific NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
• Assisting in the development and implementation of comprehensive cancer control strategies.
• Supporting the management of chronic respiratory diseases and ensuring access to essential medications.
• Collaborating with national health programs to strengthen screening initiatives and establish standardized treatment protocols.
• Developing community education programs to raise awareness about genetic disorders and improve patient outcomes.
• Integrating hearing and eye care into primary health care initiatives. 1
• Designing public health campaigns to address NCD risk factors and promote healthier lifestyles. 1
• Supporting the development of national policies and strategies to prevent violence and injuries. 1
• Strengthening rehabilitation services and ensuring inclusive health care for all populations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in medicine with a specialization in one of the NCD areas, or a degree in public health or health-related fields. For roles related to data science, a university degree in statistics, data science, health informatics, or related fields is required. An advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in medicine, public health, or any specialized field related to NCDs is desirable. Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant work experience in NCD management, integrated service delivery, or specific NCD fields, along with skills in data management and quantitative analysis.

Educational Background:
Essential educational qualifications include a degree in medicine or public health, with specialization in NCDs or related fields. Desirable qualifications include an advanced degree in relevant areas such as epidemiology, NCD surveillance, or specific disease management. Candidates should have a strong foundation in health systems and public health principles, with a focus on integrated service delivery and primary health care.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in the area of expertise applied for, which may include NCD management, integrated service delivery, and data analysis. Experience in managing violence and injuries or rehabilitation programs is also valuable. Proficiency in conducting and analyzing population-based surveys and managing health information systems is essential for data-related roles.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of one of the three UN languages (English, French, or Portuguese) is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of a second language. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the international health community.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is classified under band levels B (P4/P3) and is based on applicable experience as per the consultant payment guidelines. The vacancy notice may be used to identify candidates for other similar consultancies at the same level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as a form of screening. Candidates must provide scanned copies of required educational qualifications. WHO is committed to workforce diversity and encourages applications from women and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of tobacco. Consultants will work as independent contractors and are responsible for their own taxes and contributions.