MINISTRY OF HEALTH – LESOTHO
MINISTRY OF HEALTH CIRCULAR NOTICE NO. 1 OF 2026
Circular Reference: H/CIR/4

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following position tenable in the Ministry of Health.

Director Nutrition

Grade: J
Department: Nutrition
Reports to: Director Primary Health Care

Job Summary

Under the direct supervision of the Director Primary Health Care, the incumbent is responsible for ensuring the overall nutritional welfare of Basotho receiving nutritional care in all health facilities in the country.

Job Summary

Employer: Ministry of Health
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Maseru, Lesotho
Category: Healthcare
Closing Date: 2026-10-01

Key Responsibilities

Develop/review policies, legislation, manuals, strategies and guidelines of the nutrition programme.
Develop annual budget and reports for the nutrition programme.
Collaborate with stakeholders, internal and external partners in relation to programme implementation.
Provide guidance to staff of the Nutrition Programme.
Incorporate nutrition into the National School Health Programme as well as in the pre-service and in-service curricula of health workers.
Participate in the formulation of Food Fortification Legislation and continuous monitoring of salt iodation legislation.
Collaborate with stakeholders on Food and Nutrition service providers at national level.
Conduct periodical research related to the nutrition programme and facilitate implementation of recommendations.
Draw and develop tools for conducting nutrition research.
Ensure incorporation of nutrition indicators into health information systems.
Monitor and supervise nutrition services countrywide.
Develop monitoring tools for both district and central level for standardisation of nutrition reporting.
Monitor nutrition programmes, interventions and utilisation of funds for the programme.
Monitor nutrition managers under direct supervision on performance through the appraisal system.
Identify training needs for nutrition staff at all levels.
Build capacity of service providers at district level on nutritional issues.
Mobilise resources for the Nutrition Programme for both national and district-level nutrition activity implementation.
Support capacity building at both central and district levels for reduction and management of acute malnutrition.
Participate in the development of health and nutrition-related IEC materials.
Collaborate with partners and the pharmaceutical department for nutrition commodity procurement and supply chain management.

Requirements

Master’s in Nutrition plus a minimum of 4 years’ relevant working experience in a managerial position.
OR
Degree in Nutrition plus a minimum of 8 years’ relevant working experience in a managerial position.
Managerial skills
Computer literacy
Communication skills

How to Apply

Address: P.O. Box 514

REF Code: H/CIR/4 | Vacancy Circular No: 1 OF 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Director Nutrition role in Lesotho's Ministry of Health?

A Master's degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Public Health, or a related field is usually required, with a PhD preferred for senior positions. Professional registration with the Lesotho Nutrition and Dietetics Council or a recognized regional body is essential. At least 8-10 years of progressive experience in nutrition programming, including senior management roles, is typically expected.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Director Nutrition at the Ministry of Health?

You will oversee national nutrition policy development, coordinate programs like the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition, and supervise district nutrition officers across Lesotho's ten districts. The role involves frequent stakeholder meetings with UNICEF, WFP, and local NGOs, plus budget management and reporting to the Principal Secretary. Regular field visits to health facilities and communities are required to monitor program implementation.

How does workplace culture and professional etiquette differ in Lesotho's public health sector?

Respect for hierarchy is important; addressing senior officials appropriately and following proper channels of communication is expected. Punctuality for meetings is valued, though flexibility around time is common in practice. Building personal relationships and showing respect for Basotho customs, including appropriate greetings in Sesotho, significantly aids collaboration with colleagues and community partners.

What career progression opportunities exist for a Director Nutrition in Lesotho's health system?

Progression typically moves to Deputy Principal Secretary or Principal Secretary within the Ministry of Health, or to regional roles with organizations like SADC or WHO. Some directors transition to senior advisory positions with international development partners or academic leadership at the National University of Lesotho. Continuous professional development through regional nutrition networks and policy forums strengthens advancement prospects.

What benefits are typically included in senior Ministry of Health positions in Lesotho?

Benefits generally include government pension scheme membership, medical aid coverage for you and dependents, and annual leave of approximately 24-30 days depending on years of service. A housing or housing allowance, official vehicle or transport allowance, and subsistence allowances for official travel are commonly provided. Gratuity payments apply upon completion of contract terms for fixed-term appointments.

How should I apply for a Director Nutrition position, and what do selection panels in Lesotho prioritize?

Applications are submitted through the Public Service Commission or Ministry of Health portals, requiring detailed CVs, certified academic credentials, and professional references. Selection panels prioritize demonstrated leadership in large-scale nutrition programs, experience with donor-funded health initiatives, and proven ability to work across government and development partner structures. Strong written and oral communication skills in English and Sesotho, plus evidence of policy influence, significantly strengthen your candidacy.