NCD Prevention and Management Technical Officer

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a UN specialized agency dedicated to achieving the highest possible level of health for all peoples. In the African Region, WHO/AFRO is actively addressing the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and diabetes, alongside persistent infectious diseases. This is achieved through an integrated program focused on strengthening national capacities for NCD prevention and management, mental health, and rehabilitation, utilizing evidence-based policies and interventions.

Job Purpose

This UNV assignment will support the WHO NCD Team in the African Region by providing crucial technical guidance and program support to Member States. The role is essential for advancing regional priorities in NCD prevention and management, mental health, violence and injuries, and rehabilitation. The incumbent will contribute to strengthening national capacities through evidence-based policies and WHO "Best Buys" interventions, aiming to reduce the strain of NCDs on health systems and economies and align with SDG target 3.4. The position plays a key role in implementing integrated public health programs.

Responsibilities

Provide technical assistance to Member States in developing, implementing, and monitoring national strategies for NCD prevention and control, integrating these services into primary healthcare and universal health coverage. Offer guidance on evidence-based policies and interventions for major risk factors like tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity. Support the strengthening of national NCD surveillance, monitoring, and information systems, and assist in tracking indicators aligned with global and regional targets. Contribute to regional reports and knowledge products. Develop training materials and technical guidance for health workers and policymakers, and organize workshops to facilitate knowledge exchange. Foster collaboration with various ministries, civil society, academic institutions, and development partners to advance NCD prevention and control initiatives.

Work Experience

Requires a minimum of 3 years of experience, with 4 years of relevant experience preferred. This includes experience in NCD prevention and management, health promotion, or related public health programs in low-resource settings. Demonstrated experience in addressing NCD risk factors, designing/implementing public health policies, and working with national stakeholders in low- or middle-income countries is essential. Experience with WHO, UN, or international NGOs is desirable.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge in epidemiology, NCD prevention and control, health promotion, and health systems strengthening. Expertise in program design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Excellent analytical, research, and policy analysis skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into policy recommendations. Proficient report writing and communication skills, with strong stakeholder engagement and partnership-building abilities. Adaptability, flexibility, creativity, sound judgment, and organizational skills are also important.

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