* 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 are typically required for a Health System Strengthening NPO role at WHO in Lesotho?
A master's degree in public health, health policy, or a related field is usually required, along with several years of experience in health systems or programme management. Experience working with government health structures or international organizations in Lesotho or Southern Africa is highly valued. Proficiency in English and Sesotho is often essential for stakeholder engagement.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities in this role?
Daily tasks include coordinating with the Ministry of Health and partners to implement health system reforms, monitoring programme indicators, and preparing technical reports. You will also facilitate training sessions for district health teams and support policy development workshops. Field visits to health facilities across Lesotho's districts are common to assess service delivery gaps.
How does the work culture differ in Lesotho compared to other WHO country offices?
Lesotho's work culture emphasizes strong relationship-building with government counterparts and community leaders before formal negotiations. Hierarchical respect and patience in decision-making are important, as processes often require extensive consultation. The small size of the country means you will work closely with a tight network of health professionals and NGOs.
What career progression opportunities exist after this NPO role?
Successful NPOs can advance to Programme Management Officer or Health Systems Advisor positions within WHO or move to senior roles in Lesotho's Ministry of Health. Some transition to regional WHO offices in Brazzaville or Harare, or to UN agencies like UNICEF and UNAIDS. Experience here also opens doors to global health consulting and academic positions focused on health systems in low-resource settings.
What benefits are typically included in WHO contracts for staff in Lesotho?
WHO offers comprehensive benefits including medical insurance coverage, pension contributions, and generous annual leave typically around 30 days. Staff may receive relocation support if internationally recruited, and education grants for dependent children are sometimes available. Contract type determines specific entitlements, with fixed-term appointments offering more security than consultancy arrangements.
How should I prepare my application to stand out for this role in Lesotho?
Highlight specific experience supporting health systems in resource-constrained settings, particularly in Lesotho or neighboring countries like South Africa, Eswatini, or Zimbabwe. Demonstrate knowledge of Lesotho's health challenges including HIV/AIDS, TB, and human resources for health crises. Include concrete examples of government partnership and successful programme implementation, as WHO values candidates who can navigate local political and institutional landscapes effectively.