Expert(e) National(e) En Santé Mentale Et Soutien Psychosocial (smsps), NOC /SSA

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) supports the Government of Mauritania in addressing increasing mental health, psychosocial support, and addiction care needs. This role contributes to implementing the National Integrated and Multisectoral Mental Health and Addiction Strategy 2026-2030, focusing on vulnerable populations including refugees, returnees, and host communities.

Job Purpose

The National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Expert, under WHO supervision, is responsible for the comprehensive technical and operational coordination of MHPSS activities throughout Mauritania. This pivotal role involves leading the MHPSS Technical Working Group, providing crucial support for the effective implementation of the National Mental Health Strategy 2026-2030, and significantly enhancing multisectoral coordination with governmental authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, and community organizations. The expert will ensure diligent monitoring of activities funded by the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), integrate Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEA) mechanisms, and develop essential technical tools and guidelines. Key contributions include organizing targeted training programs, facilitating robust data collection and analysis, documenting best practices, and actively participating in advocacy and resource mobilization efforts to strengthen mental health services and promote social cohesion nationwide.

Responsibilities

The National MHPSS Expert will lead the technical and operational coordination of mental health and psychosocial support activities across national and regional levels. This includes supporting the implementation of the National Mental Health and Addiction Strategy, developing relevant policies, tools, and coordination mechanisms in adherence to WHO standards. The role involves strengthening multisectoral coordination and fostering partnerships with governmental bodies, UN agencies, NGOs, donors, and community organizations to ensure a cohesive approach. Key duties also encompass comprehensive planning, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for all MHPSS activities, specifically overseeing those funded by the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF). The expert will actively promote the integration of Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEA) principles, develop essential technical guidance, and build the capacity of stakeholders through targeted training, supervision, and mentoring initiatives. Furthermore, responsibilities include supporting the systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data, studies, and best practices related to mental health, psychosocial support, and social cohesion. The expert will also contribute to advocacy efforts, resource mobilization, and ensuring meaningful beneficiary participation in program design and implementation.

Work Experience

Extensive experience in mental health, psychosocial support, public health, or humanitarian/development sectors is required. This includes proven expertise in designing, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating MHPSS programs, supporting government policy development, and leading multisectoral coordination. Desirable experience includes training, capacity building, PSEA program implementation, working in humanitarian or post-crisis settings, managing internationally funded projects (e.g., PBF), and resource mobilization. Prior UN or international organization experience is an asset.

Skills

Essential skills include: * Partnership development and promotion * Fostering integration and teamwork * Respecting and promoting diversity * Efficient resource utilization * Effective communication

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