Technical Officer, Traditional Medicine
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a UN specialized agency dedicated to achieving the highest possible level of health for all people. WHO AFRO, the Regional Office for Africa, supports Member States in developing national policies, legal frameworks, and research capacity for traditional medicine. This work aligns with the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034 and the Plan of Action of the Third Decade of African Traditional Medicine. The traditional medicine portfolio is managed by the MDI Unit, contributing to regional and global initiatives.
Job Purpose
This UN Volunteer assignment supports the WHO AFRO regional programme on traditional medicine, contributing to the implementation of the 2026-2027 workplan. The role is crucial during a period of transition and increasing demand from Member States for support in policy, regulation, research, and integration of traditional medicine into national health systems. The Technical Officer will provide technical assistance to Member States, support regional coordination and expert advice, contribute to quality assurance and regulation of herbal medicines, and assist in evidence and research initiatives. This role offers a valuable opportunity for a public health professional to gain international experience while contributing to WHO's mission.
Responsibilities
The Technical Officer will support Member States in developing and updating national traditional medicine policies, strategic plans, legal frameworks, and registration mechanisms. This includes reviewing country requests for technical support and contributing to the integration of WHO guidelines into national health systems. The role involves supporting regional coordination, including preparing and following up on REACT meetings and coordinating the African Traditional Medicine Day. Responsibilities also extend to drafting official correspondence and supporting capacity-building activities on the regulation, quality assurance, and safety of herbal medicines. Furthermore, the incumbent will contribute to updating publications, supporting research agendas, and populating the WHO TCIM Global Library. Engagement with global platforms like GTMC, WHO headquarters, the African Union Commission, and IRCH is expected, along with monitoring the regional workplan and preparing reports.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of professional experience in public health, pharmaceutical systems, regulation of health products, or traditional medicine at the national or international level is required. Demonstrated knowledge of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine policy, regulation, research, or integration into health systems is essential. Proven ability to draft technical documents and experience organizing technical meetings or workshops are necessary. Experience with ministries of health, national regulatory authorities, or research institutions in the African Region, as well as work experience with WHO or other UN agencies, are considered assets.
Skills
Key competencies include Professionalism, Integrity, Teamwork, Respect for Diversity, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Planning and Organizing, Communication, Flexibility, Self-Management, and Producing Results. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement, WHO's mission, and UN Core Values is essential. Expertise in Pharmacy and allied health professions, Public Health, and Immunization is required.