* Lead the development, review, and implementation of national health policies, strategies, and regulatory frameworks to improve health outcomes and health system performance.
* Support policies that ensure equitable access to affordable, quality healthcare services for all Basotho, particularly vulnerable and underserved populations, in line with Universal Health Coverage goals.
* Analyze health data, research findings, and emerging trends to inform strategic decision-making and policy formulation within the Ministry of Health.
* Strengthen accountability, transparency, leadership, and regulatory oversight across the health sector to enhance service delivery and resource utilization.
* Foster collaboration between government ministries, development partners, donors, civil society organizations, and health service providers to achieve national health goals.
* Advice on policies and programmes that promote health education, disease prevention, epidemic preparedness, and the control of priority diseases such as HIV/AIDS, TB, and non-communicable diseases.
* Establish and oversee monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess policy effectiveness, measure impact, and recommend improvements.
* Ensure that national health policies and programmes are aligned with WHO guidelines, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and regional and global health commitments and standards.
* Perform any other duties as might be assigned by the supervisor.
Job Summary
- Employer: WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Public Health
- Salary: LSL 737,382
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, review, and implementation of national health policies, strategies, and regulatory frameworks to improve health outcomes and health system performance.
- Support policies that ensure equitable access to affordable, quality healthcare services for all Basotho, particularly vulnerable and underserved populations, in line with Universal Health Coverage goals.
- Analyze health data, research findings, and emerging trends to inform strategic decision-making and policy formulation within the Ministry of Health.
- Strengthen accountability, transparency, leadership, and regulatory oversight across the health sector to enhance service delivery and resource utilization.
- Foster collaboration between government ministries, development partners, donors, civil society organizations, and health service providers to achieve national health goals.
- Advise on policies and programmes that promote health education, disease prevention, epidemic preparedness, and the control of priority diseases such as HIV/AIDS, TB, and non-communicable diseases.
- Establish and oversee monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess policy effectiveness, measure impact, and recommend improvements.
- Ensure that national health policies and programmes are aligned with WHO guidelines, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and regional and global health commitments and standards.
- Perform any other duties as might be assigned by the supervisor.
Requirements
- Essential: University degree in medicine, nursing, midwifery, public health, sciences, international development or a related discipline and an advanced degree, at least at master’s level, in public health, epidemiology, related science or health discipline
- Desirable: Post-graduate training or specialization in health systems and/or health planning, management, or health economics will be an added advantage
- Essential: At least (5) five years of relevant experience in health-sector policy, strategy development, and planning at national or sub-national levels, some of which obtained in an international work environment, out of which at least four years in health planning and/or financing within a governmental institution or international organization serving resource-limited or middle-income countries.
- Desirable: Significant experience in health systems strengthening, health policy analysis, and health financing reform, including experience supporting Universal Health Coverage initiatives. Working experience with WHO, other United Nations agencies, and/or international non-governmental organizations would be an added advantage.
Salary
LSL 737,382
How to Apply
About the Company
The World Health Organisation (WHO) operates in Lesotho through its country office in Maseru, supporting the Ministry of Health to strengthen health systems and improve population health outcomes. In Lesotho, WHO focuses on HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis response, maternal and child health, noncommunicable diseases, and emergency preparedness, reflecting the country's high disease burden and unique mountainous geography. The organisation provides technical assistance, policy guidance, and coordinates with partners including the Global Fund and bilateral donors to ensure sustainable health programmes. WHO Lesotho works to achieve universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals through evidence-based interventions tailored to the Basotho population.
Health for all, everywhere
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to apply for an NPO Health System Strengthening role at WHO in Lesotho?
You typically need a master's degree in public health, health systems management, or a related medical field, plus at least five years of experience in health programme implementation. WHO Lesotho often prefers candidates with experience in the SADC region and familiarity with primary health care systems. Additional certifications in project management or monitoring and evaluation strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in this role?
You will coordinate with the Ministry of Health and partners to strengthen service delivery, particularly at district and community levels. Daily tasks include technical support to health facilities, data analysis for programme monitoring, and facilitating training workshops for health workers. You will also represent WHO in national health coordination meetings and contribute to donor reporting.
How does the work culture differ in Lesotho's public health sector compared to private or international NGO settings?
The work culture emphasizes consensus-building and respect for hierarchical structures, with decisions often requiring consultation across multiple stakeholders including traditional leaders in rural areas. Punctuality is valued, but flexibility is needed when community engagement or government processes cause delays. Building personal relationships and trust is essential before advancing technical agendas.
What career progression opportunities exist for health system strengthening professionals in Lesotho?
With WHO experience, you can advance to regional advisory roles in Brazzaville or Geneva, or transition to senior positions within Lesotho's Ministry of Health. Many professionals move into health policy advisory roles, UN agency coordination, or academic positions at the National University of Lesotho. Specializing in emerging areas like digital health or health financing opens additional regional opportunities.
What benefits typically come with full-time public health positions at international organizations in Lesotho?
WHO offers comprehensive benefits including medical insurance covering evacuation if needed, pension contributions, and generous annual leave typically above local standards. You can expect professional development allowances, home leave travel for international staff, and hardship allowances given Lesotho's remote posting classification. Local hires receive competitive packages aligned with UN common system standards for their grade level.
How should I prepare my application, and what do employers like WHO look for in Lesotho?
Tailor your CV to highlight specific health system strengthening achievements using measurable outcomes, and obtain strong references from senior Ministry of Health officials or previous international agency supervisors. Demonstrate knowledge of Lesotho's health challenges including HIV/TB co-epidemic, human resources for health shortages, and mountainous terrain access issues. Fluency in Sesotho is a significant advantage for community-level positions, while English proficiency is essential for all roles.