Technical Expert for the Implementation of the Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS) Act, 2021

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on 7 April 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on improving health outcomes and ensuring access to essential health services globally.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is aimed at drafting comprehensive and context-appropriate National Regulations that will operationalize the Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS) Act, 2021 in Sierra Leone. This role is crucial in defining procedural steps, institutional mandates, enforcement systems, monitoring tools, penalties, and compliance requirements necessary for the effective implementation of the Act. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure that the regulations align with both national and international standards for infant and young nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">child nutrition. The overarching goal is to safeguard breastfeeding practices and ensure that infants receive optimal nutrition, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality rates associated with inappropriate feeding practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks including reviewing the BMS Act, 2021, and associated legal and policy instruments. They will develop detailed regulations that guide enforcement of prohibitions in the Act, which include marketing restrictions, labeling requirements, and compliance mechanisms. The consultant will also facilitate stakeholder consultations with various entities including government ministries, civil society organizations, and UN agencies. Additionally, they will prepare regulatory clauses covering marketing and advertising restrictions, packaging requirements, and health warnings. The consultant will present draft regulations in a national validation workshop and integrate feedback to produce a final approved version. Expected deliverables include an inception report, stakeholder consultation report, draft regulations, and a final draft ready for endorsement by Parliament.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Law, Nutrition Policy, or a related field. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 7 years of experience in drafting legislation, regulations, or national policies, along with demonstrated expertise in maternal and child nutrition and food regulation. Excellent analytical, legal drafting, and stakeholder facilitation skills are required. Desirable qualifications include proven experience working with governments, UN agencies, or international bodies, as well as excellent interpersonal skills and proficiency in Microsoft applications, particularly Excel.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Law, Nutrition Policy, or a related field is essential for this position. This educational background is critical as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of legislation and policy development related to infant and young child nutrition.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, particularly in drafting legislation, regulations, or national policies. Candidates should have a strong background in maternal and child nutrition, food regulation, or infant feeding practices. Experience working with governmental bodies, UN agencies, or international organizations is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the regulatory environment and stakeholder engagement processes.

Languages:
Working proficiency in English is mandatory, encompassing written, presentation, and verbal communication skills. This proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for drafting regulations that are clear and comprehensible.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 3 months, with remuneration based on the applicable fees as per the World Health Organization scale for consultants at NOC level. The maximum contract duration is 11 months per calendar year, but this specific consultancy is limited to 3 months. No travel is required for this position, allowing the consultant to focus entirely on the drafting and consultation processes.