National Consultancy to Investigate and Document the Clinical Complication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading organization in the field of sexual and reproductive health, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues, working closely with governments and civil society to implement programs that improve health outcomes and empower individuals.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to investigate and document the clinical complications associated with Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) during labor and delivery in Liberia. This position is crucial for establishing a robust evidence base that will support advocacy efforts for the eradication of FGM. The consultant will be responsible for quantifying the incidence and severity of obstetric complications among women with a history of FGM, analyzing the relationship between different types of FGM and complications during labor, and mapping the geographic distribution of these complications across Liberia. The findings will inform clinical protocols and legislative recommendations to mitigate birth complications and strengthen the legal framework against FGM.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive investigation into the clinical complications of FGM during labor and delivery across six counties in Liberia.
• Quantify the incidence and severity of obstetric complications such as prolonged labor, postpartum hemorrhage, and perineal tearing among women with a history of FGM.
• Analyze the relationship between specific types of FGM (Type I, II, or III) and the nature of complications encountered during the second stage of labor.
• Identify and map the geographic distribution of FGM-related delivery complications to pinpoint areas with the highest clinical burden.
• Propose evidence-based clinical protocols and legislative recommendations aimed at mitigating birth complications and strengthening the legal framework for the eradication of FGM.
• Prepare and submit an inception report detailing the study methodology, recruitment, and training strategy.
• Draft and finalize reports based on data collection and analysis.
• Collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders throughout the research process to ensure findings are evidence-based and reflective of the realities at study sites.

Required Qualifications:
The consultant must possess a qualified health professional background, such as a Nurse, Midwife, or Medical Doctor, with a minimum of 5 to 10 years of clinical practice experience. Proven experience in conducting research in a similar context is essential. The consultant should demonstrate excellent writing and organizational skills, particularly in workshop facilitation, as well as strong analytical skills and a high capacity to synthesize information effectively. Fluency in English is mandatory, as the consultant will be required to communicate findings and collaborate with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in health sciences, nursing, midwifery, or medicine is required. Advanced qualifications or certifications in public health, maternal and child health, or related fields will be considered an advantage. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in clinical practice and research methodologies.

Experience:
The consultant should have substantial experience in clinical practice, particularly in maternal and child health settings. A background in conducting research, especially related to public health issues such as FGM, is crucial. Experience working in the Liberian context or similar environments will be highly beneficial, as it will enhance the consultant's understanding of local cultural practices and health challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Liberia may be advantageous but is not required. The ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including health professionals and community members, is essential for the success of the consultancy.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 150 days, from August to November 30, 202

• The consultant will be stationed in Monrovia but will need to travel to various field sites across the six targeted counties for data collection and training purposes. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Data and Evidence Specialist, who will provide day-to-day oversight and support throughout the assignment. The Ministry of Health will play an active role in coordinating the study and ensuring that findings are utilized for policy and programmatic improvements.