WHO Special Service Agreement to Support MPDSR & EmONC

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established in 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 a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to achieve universal health coverage, address health emergencies, and promote healthier populations through various initiatives and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The position involves providing technical assistance to the Ministry of Health in Eswatini to enhance the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) system, improve Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) services, and strengthen routine immunization programs. The officer will be responsible for reviewing and updating the MPDSR guidelines, developing an electronic MPDSR system, assessing and optimizing EmONC referral networks, and addressing barriers to immunization coverage. This role is crucial for improving maternal and child health outcomes in Eswatini, aligning with national health priorities and global health standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review and update the national MPDSR guideline, including stakeholder consultations and development of operational tools.
• Support the development of an electronic MPDSR system, ensuring alignment with national digital health architecture.
• Strengthen the EmONC referral network by assessing service availability and developing referral guidelines.
• Enhance routine immunization performance by identifying barriers and developing strategies to improve coverage.
• Facilitate capacity building and stakeholder engagement through workshops and consultations.
• Document lessons learned and provide recommendations for sustainable implementation of health initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Master's degree in public health or a related field, along with a medical degree. Candidates should have at least 8 years of experience in maternal, newborn, and child health programming, with demonstrated expertise in MPDSR and digital health systems. Familiarity with WHO standards and experience working with health ministries and international organizations are also essential. Desirable qualifications include specialized training in relevant health disciplines and experience in Southern Africa.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in public health or a related health field, along with an undergraduate degree in Medicine or a related discipline. Specialized training in areas such as Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Health Systems, or Epidemiology is desirable, as is a PhD in a relevant field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in maternal, newborn, and child health, with a focus on routine immunization programming. Candidates should have proven experience in implementing MPDSR initiatives and digital health systems, as well as familiarity with WHO guidelines and frameworks. Experience in Southern Africa or with WHO/UN agencies is considered an asset.

Languages:
Excellent command of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is expected to be six months, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The position is classified at the NOC grade level under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) arrangement. The officer will report to the WHO Representative in Eswatini and will be required to travel within the country to various health facilities and communities as part of their duties.