About the opportunity
This role provides critical technical assistance to the Ministry of Health in Eswatini to improve maternal, newborn, and child health outcomes. The officer will lead the review and updating of the national MPDSR guideline, support the institutionalization of an electronic MPDSR system, and strengthen the national Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) referral network. Additionally, the officer will assess and address barriers to routine immunization coverage and vaccine-preventable disease surveillance. The position requires close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, health facilities, and development partners to build capacity, facilitate workshops, and ensure the sustainability of these health systems through evidence-based strategies and data-driven decision-making.
Salary and benefits
- Professional engagement with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Eswatini
- Opportunity to contribute to national health policy and system strengthening
- Exposure to high-level technical advisory work in public health
- Remuneration at the NOC grade level
Who can apply?
- Master’s degree in public health or a relevant health-related field
- University undergraduate degree in Medicine or a related field
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in maternal, newborn, and child health and routine immunization programming
- Demonstrated experience in MPDSR implementation and quality-of-care initiatives
- Proven experience in digital health systems design and implementation
- Experience conducting EmONC assessments and referral system strengthening
- Familiarity with WHO standards, MPDSR guidelines, EmONC frameworks, and EPI guidelines
- Excellent command of English
Required documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Academic credentials
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-10-27 at 22:59 UTC
How to apply
- Visit the official WHO career portal
- Create or log in to your account
- Submit your application online through the job detail page
Additional information
- The contract duration is six months with the possibility of extension subject to funding and performance.
- The role requires travel within regions, health facilities, and communities in Eswatini.
- The incumbent reports to the WHO Representative of Eswatini and works closely with the Health System Strengthening (HSS) Advisor.
- Desirable qualifications include a PhD in Medicine or Public Health, specialized training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and prior experience with UN agencies or in Southern Africa.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Public health professionals with extensive experience in maternal and newborn health systems in Southern Africa.
- Experts in digital health and electronic surveillance systems who can translate technical requirements into functional frameworks.
- Candidates with a strong background in immunization programming and vaccine-preventable disease surveillance.
- Experienced technical advisors comfortable working directly with government ministries and diverse stakeholders.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term, six-month contract; while extensions are possible, they are contingent on funding and performance.
- The role involves significant travel to various health facilities and communities, requiring flexibility and mobility.
- The position is highly specialized; candidates must demonstrate specific experience in both MPDSR and EmONC frameworks to be competitive.
- Applicants should be prepared to handle sensitive health data and maintain strict confidentiality protocols.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for a senior public health professional looking to make a tangible impact on national health systems. It offers a chance to lead high-level technical initiatives that directly influence maternal and child mortality reduction. For those seeking to deepen their experience within the UN system or to transition into a high-level advisory role, this assignment provides significant exposure to WHO's operational and policy-making processes in a specific country context.
Our take
This role is an excellent fit for seasoned public health experts with a strong track record in maternal health and immunization. It is less suitable for those without significant, hands-on experience in health system strengthening or those who are not prepared for the intensive, field-based nature of the work.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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