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 do I need to become a National Professional Officer for Health System Strengthening in Lesotho?

You typically need a master's degree in public health, health policy, health systems, or a related medical field, plus at least five years of relevant experience in health system strengthening or health policy. WHO often requires demonstrated experience working with government health ministries, NGOs, or international health organizations in Lesotho or similar contexts.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in this role?

You will support the Ministry of Health in developing and implementing health system policies, coordinate technical assistance programs, monitor health system performance indicators, and facilitate stakeholder meetings with local partners. Much of your work involves field visits to district health facilities across Lesotho to assess service delivery and provide on-site technical guidance.

How does the work culture differ in Lesotho's health sector compared to private sector jobs?

The public and international health sector in Lesotho emphasizes collaborative decision-making with government counterparts, respect for hierarchical structures within the Ministry of Health, and patience with bureaucratic processes. You will need strong relationship-building skills, as personal connections and trust-building are essential for advancing health system reforms in the Basotho context.

What career progression opportunities exist after this role?

Successful officers often advance to Health Systems Advisor positions, move into WHO regional office roles, or transition to senior technical positions within Lesotho's Ministry of Health or other UN agencies. Some professionals leverage this experience to pursue doctoral studies or consulting roles specializing in health financing and universal health coverage across Southern Africa.

What benefits typically come with this type of position in Lesotho?

WHO Country Office positions generally offer competitive remuneration packages including health insurance coverage, pension contributions, annual leave, and professional development allowances. Specific benefits vary by contract type and are detailed in the official vacancy announcement, so review these carefully before applying.

What do employers like WHO look for in applications for Lesotho-based health positions?

Employers prioritize candidates with proven experience working in Lesotho's health system, fluency in English and working knowledge of Sesotho, and demonstrated ability to navigate local government structures. Tailor your application to highlight specific achievements in health policy implementation, stakeholder engagement, and any prior collaboration with the Ministry of Health or district health teams.