National Consultant - Tobacco Control

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 has a mission 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 health promotion. The organization operates in multiple countries and collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to implement health initiatives and policies.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position aims to support Uganda in implementing the Tobacco Control Act and its regulations, funded by the Gates Foundation under the Africa Tobacco Control Project. The consultant will provide technical assistance in demand reduction strategies, focusing on enforcement of smoke-free policies, public awareness campaigns, and transitioning tobacco farmers to alternative livelihoods. The role requires coordination with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, WHO regional offices, and other partners to ensure effective implementation of tobacco control measures aligned with national health priorities and WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) obligations. The consultant will also monitor tobacco industry activities and support capacity building for enforcement officers.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and monitor the implementation of tobacco control priorities through regular follow-ups and technical updates to WHO teams.
• Conduct capacity-building workshops for tobacco control enforcement officers and monitor district action plans.
• Provide technical support for the Tobacco-Free Farms initiative, facilitating stakeholder engagement and supporting tobacco farmers' transition to alternative livelihoods.
• Collaborate with the Directorate of Government Analytical Laboratory (DGAL) on global studies and product regulation matters.
• Monitor the implementation of the Tobacco Control Act and tobacco industry interference, sharing findings with stakeholders.
• Promote public awareness and multisectoral engagement for tobacco control through events and review meetings.
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the WHO representative.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include an advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Public Health or a related field, with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in health program management. Candidates should have knowledge of WHO FCTC and MPOWER, experience in tobacco surveillance data analysis, and technical writing for WHO reports. Desirable qualifications include experience in tobacco taxation, health economics, and policy analysis. Core competencies required are teamwork, communication, respect for diversity, producing results, building partnerships, and technical credibility. Desirable skills include strategic thinking, political awareness, diplomacy, and problem-solving.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Public Health or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of health program management and tobacco control policies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in health program management, particularly in tobacco control or public health initiatives. Experience working with government institutions and development partners is crucial, along with a strong understanding of tobacco surveillance and regulatory frameworks.

Languages:
The successful candidate must have expert knowledge of the English language, including speaking, writing, and presentation skills. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is full-time and based in Kampala, Uganda, with the possibility of remote work. The contract is funded at a rate of UGX 112,973,400 (USD 30,000) for the duration of the consultancy, which includes a monthly remuneration of UGX 7,531,560 (USD 2000). The consultant will be required to participate in activities that may involve travel within Uganda and potentially abroad. The WHO emphasizes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States.