Programme Analyst, Midwifery

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization works towards achieving transformative results in maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) commitments. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of ethical staff who uphold human rights and international norms, aiming to build a world where all individuals can access the health services they need.

Job Overview:
The Programme Analyst, Midwifery, plays a crucial role in analyzing and assessing political, social, and economic trends that impact UNFPA's programs in Somalia, particularly in the areas of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Midwifery. This position is pivotal in guiding the implementation of UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025, which focuses on ending preventable maternal deaths, addressing unmet family planning needs, and combating gender-based violence. The analyst will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society, to strengthen midwifery education, training, and professional regulations, ensuring that midwifery is integrated into national health systems and that midwives are equipped to deliver quality care. The role requires a commitment to ethical practices and a passion for improving health outcomes for women and children in Somalia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Midwifery Analyst will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Supporting the planning, implementation, and monitoring of health systems strengthening initiatives for midwifery improvement.
• Strengthening midwifery institutions at both national and sub-national levels, including Somaliland, to enhance education, training, policy development, and professional regulations.
• Promoting a positive image of midwifery and career development while enhancing the visibility and performance of midwifery councils and associations.
• Analyzing political, policy, and social trends affecting midwifery and providing substantive inputs into design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and evaluation.
• Collaborating with the Ministry of Health and technical staff to oversee the work of consultants, advisors, and experts.
• Establishing and maintaining partnerships with government agencies, donor organizations, private sector stakeholders, and civil society.
• Providing technical guidance on midwifery workforce development and service delivery.
• Leading the development and implementation of midwifery education programs and training initiatives.
• Monitoring and evaluating the progress of midwifery-related projects and providing data-driven recommendations for improvements. 1
• Advocating for midwifery integration into national healthcare systems and mobilizing resources for sustainable funding.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in public health, medicine, social science, or a related field, along with at least two years of professional experience in public health or program/project management. Knowledge of sexual and reproductive health programs is desirable, as is familiarity with the Somali context and government systems. Practical experience in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects is essential. Proficiency in office software and web-based management systems is required, and experience within the UN system or with development partners is an advantage.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree is required, which may include a Master's degree in public health, medicine, social sciences, or other relevant disciplines. Candidates with a medical degree (MD) are also encouraged to apply, as this background can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and midwifery practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in public health, with a focus on program or project management. Experience in sexual and reproductive health programs is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Somali context and government systems related to health. Candidates should have practical experience in designing, monitoring, and evaluating development projects, as well as experience using office software and web-based management systems.

Languages:
A solid command of spoken and written English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the Somali language. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and for the successful implementation of programs.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and equal opportunities in all aspects of employment, including training, compensation, and selection.