The WHO-AFRO IHR Secretariat Support Staff will work under the direct supervision of the WHO-IHR Contact Point to support International Health Regulations (IHR) secretariat functions, data tracking, capacity-building, and communication across the African region.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Support the IHR Secretariat in maintaining updated databases of IHR National Focal Points, National IHR Authorities (NIAs) and regional experts.
- Contribute to the preparation of reports, briefing notes, and technical documents for the Secretariat.
- Assist in tracking 24/7 communication between WHO‑AFRO and Member States on IHR‑related notifications through @afroihr@who.int.
- Provide technical and administrative input to capacity‑building activities for IHR NFPs, including workshops, training, and simulation exercises.
- Assist in tracking implementation of IHR Monitoring and Evaluation Framework.
- Assist in monitoring IHR Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and compiling feedback for Member States.
- Support with the tracking of the Framework for the Implementation of the 2024 amendments to IHR 2005.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the IHR Contact Point.
Qualifications and Experience
Education:
- Essential: Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from an accredited institution.
- Desirable: Medical degree with specialized training in IHR, health emergency preparedness, or response.
Experience:
- Essential: Minimum of 3 years’ experience in IHR implementation, public health emergency preparedness, or related field.
- Desirable: Experience working with WHO, UN agencies, or other intergovernmental organizations, with familiarity in regional health security networks. Previous work experience with Ministries of Health (MOH) or National Public Health Institutes (NPHI) in the area of IHR would be considered desirable.
Languages:
- Essential: Expert knowledge of English and French (read, write, speak).
- Desirable: Proficiency in Portuguese (read, write, speak).
Functional Skills & Competencies
- Demonstrated expertise in IHR processes and emergency preparedness.
- Strong drafting and communication skills, with ability to produce clear technical and scientific reports.
- Proven ability to work in multicultural environments with diplomacy, tact, and courtesy.
- Proficiency in Excel and AI tools.
- Core competencies: Teamwork, respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences, communication, producing results.
Expected Deliverables
- Updated and verified IHR NFP and NIA database for the African Region (WHO-AFRO).
- Regular Secretariat reports on Member States’ IHR capacity strengthening progress.
- Contributions to regional workshops, training sessions, action reviews, and simulation exercises.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates can apply online via World Health Organization on careers.who.int.
