UN Volunteer - Midwifery and Maternal Newborn Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Established in 1969, UNFPA works in over 150 countries to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population dynamics, aiming to improve the lives of individuals and communities through comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, advocacy, and education.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer will play a crucial role in supporting UNFPA Uganda's mission to ensure continuity of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) services. This position involves working closely with the Programme Specialist for Reproductive Health and collaborating with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, civil society organizations, and government bodies. The volunteer will provide technical support in midwifery and maternal newborn health (MNH) services, focusing on evidence-based interventions, quality of care, capacity building, and humanitarian response. The role is vital in enhancing the quality and accessibility of maternal health services, particularly in challenging environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer include providing technical support to national and sub-national counterparts on midwifery-led care models, implementing maternal and newborn health interventions, and contributing to the strengthening of midwives' professional standards. The volunteer will also support quality improvement initiatives, capacity building through training and mentorship, and ensure the continuity of essential MNH and SRHR services in humanitarian settings. Additionally, the volunteer will be responsible for routine program monitoring, documentation, and reporting, ensuring that best practices and lessons learned are captured and shared for policy influence and scale-up.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of midwifery and maternal newborn health principles, with experience in implementing health programs. They should demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in their approach to work. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A commitment to gender equality and the promotion of SRHR is crucial, as is the ability to operate effectively in challenging environments.

Educational Background:
A degree in midwifery, nursing, public health, or a related field is required. Advanced training or certification in maternal and newborn health, reproductive health, or a related area is highly desirable. Candidates should have a solid understanding of health systems and policies, particularly in the context of Uganda or similar settings.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in maternal and newborn health, midwifery, or public health programming. Experience working in humanitarian or fragile settings is an advantage. Candidates should have a proven track record of implementing health interventions and collaborating with government and non-governmental organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNFPA. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda is an asset and may enhance communication with community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position with a living allowance provided to cover basic needs. The UN Volunteer will receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) calculated based on the cost of living in Uganda. The position is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours, especially in response to emergencies or urgent program needs. The role is critical in enhancing UNFPA's visibility and technical leadership in midwifery and maternal newborn health.