The WHO Country Office in Lesotho is inviting applications for the position of National Professional Officer (Health System Strengthening) NO-C, based in Maseru.
The National Professional Officer (Health System Strengthening) will provide technical support to the Ministry of Health in strengthening health systems through policy development, strategic planning, health financing, governance, and regulatory oversight.
The incumbent will support the formulation and implementation of national health policies and strategies, promote equitable access to quality healthcare services, strengthen accountability and leadership across the health sector, and contribute to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Job Summary

Employer: WHO Country Office in Lesotho
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Maseru, Lesotho
Category: Healthcare
Salary: LSL 737,382 (annual base salary, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable)
Closing Date: 2026-10-20

Key Responsibilities

Provide technical support to the Ministry of Health in strengthening health systems through policy development, strategic planning, health financing, governance, and regulatory oversight.
Support the formulation and implementation of national health policies and strategies.
Promote equitable access to quality healthcare services.
Strengthen accountability and leadership across the health sector.
Contribute to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Requirements

University degree in medicine, nursing, midwifery, public health, sciences, international development or a related discipline, with an advanced degree (Master’s level or higher) in public health, epidemiology, a related science, or health discipline, and at least 5 years of relevant experience in health-sector policy, strategy development, and planning.

Salary

LSL 737,382 (annual base salary, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable)

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: careers.who.int

REF Code: NO-C

About the Company

The WHO Country Office in Lesotho serves as the local representation of the World Health Organization, supporting the Government of Lesotho in Maseru and across the country's ten districts to strengthen health systems and improve population health outcomes. The office works closely with the Ministry of Health to implement national health strategies, coordinate disease surveillance, and respond to public health emergencies including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. Based in Maseru, the team provides technical assistance, mobilizes resources, and facilitates partnerships with bilateral and multilateral donors to advance universal health coverage in the Mountain Kingdom. Its operations align with Lesotho's national health priorities and the broader WHO African Region strategic objectives.

Health for all in the Kingdom of Lesotho

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a National Professional Officer (Health System Strengthening) role in Lesotho?

A master's degree in public health, health systems, health policy, or a related medical field is usually required. Relevant professional certifications in health management or project management are highly advantageous. Prior experience working with the Ministry of Health or international health organizations in Lesotho strengthens your candidacy.

What are the common day-to-day responsibilities in health system strengthening work?

You will coordinate technical assistance programs, support policy development with the Ministry of Health, and monitor health system performance indicators. Regular duties include stakeholder meetings, field visits to district health facilities, and preparing reports for donors and government partners. You must also facilitate training workshops and capacity-building initiatives for local health workers.

How does local work culture in Lesotho affect expectations for this role?

Lesotho's public health sector values respectful hierarchical communication and strong relationship-building with government counterparts. Punctuality is important, though meetings may start with extended greetings and relationship-focused conversation. Understanding Sesotho cultural norms and demonstrating patience with bureaucratic processes are essential for effective collaboration.

What realistic career progression paths exist for health system strengthening professionals in Lesotho?

With experience, you can advance to senior technical advisor roles, program manager positions, or health policy leadership within the Ministry of Health. Many professionals transition to regional WHO offices or larger international NGOs based in Southern Africa. Some pursue doctoral studies to move into academic or high-level research positions influencing national health strategy.

What typical benefits should I expect when working with international organizations in Lesotho's health sector?

Benefits typically include comprehensive medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and generous annual leave allowances exceeding local statutory minimums. Many organizations provide housing allowances or assistance, professional development funding, and hardship allowances for remote district assignments. Specific packages vary by employer and contract type, so review terms carefully during negotiation.

How should I apply for this role and what do employers in Lesotho prioritize in candidates?

Submit applications through official WHO recruitment portals or designated UN job platforms with tailored CVs highlighting relevant Lesotho-specific health experience. Employers prioritize demonstrated knowledge of Lesotho's health system challenges, including HIV/TB co-infection management and rural healthcare access. Strong references from previous supervisors in government or international health settings significantly strengthen your application.