Consultant to support Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in Republic of Marshall Islands
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this consultancy is to provide essential technical support to the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS) in the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI). The consultant will focus on strengthening breastfeeding promotion by enhancing the implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) across two key hospitals and their associated communities. This initiative is critical for improving child nutrition, as breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of stunting, overweight, and wasting in children under five. The consultancy aligns with UNICEF's commitment to supporting Pacific island countries in building robust primary healthcare and nutrition services, ensuring that health systems effectively protect, promote, and support breastfeeding practices.
Responsibilities
Provide technical expertise and guidance to the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MoHHS) in the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) for the effective implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). Support the assessment of current breastfeeding support services in two designated hospitals and their surrounding communities. Develop and deliver training programs for healthcare professionals on the updated BFHI guidelines (2018) and the "Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding". Assist MoHHS in developing and implementing strategies to promote and support breastfeeding practices within health facilities and the community. Collaborate with local health authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach to BFHI implementation. Monitor and evaluate the progress of BFHI implementation, identifying challenges and recommending solutions. Contribute to the development of communication materials to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding. Ensure that the consultancy activities align with the UNICEF Pacific Multi-Country Program Document (MCPD) for 2023-2027, focusing on improved, affordable, and equitable quality primary health care and nutrition services. Document lessons learned and best practices from the RMI BFHI implementation to inform future programming.
Work Experience
At least five years of professional experience in public health, maternal and child health, or nutrition, with a focus on infant feeding and breastfeeding promotion. Experience in implementing the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative is highly desirable. Experience working in Pacific Island countries or similar contexts is an asset.
Skills
Public Health, Nutrition, Infant Feeding, Breastfeeding Promotion, Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), Training and Capacity Building, Project Support, Stakeholder Engagement, Monitoring and Evaluation, Health Systems Strengthening, Communication Skills, Report Writing