International Consultant-TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN SUPPORT OF IMPLEMENTATION EPI ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EXPANDED PROGRAMME ON IMMUNIZATION (EPI) ACTIVITIES IN THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

01 JUNE TO 31st December 2025

Background:

The goal of the Lesotho Expanded Programme on Immunization (LEPI) is to protect all communities with life-saving vaccines, in alignment with the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030). This agenda focuses on preserving hard-won immunization gains, recovering from the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and advancing further to ensure that no one is left behind, regardless of their circumstances or stage of life.

In response to the disparities in measles and rubella vaccine coverage, high dropout rates, and the clustering of zero-dose children in certain districts, Lesotho, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has planned nationwide Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs) scheduled for October & November 2025.

To support the successful implementation of these activities and achieve the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) goals, WHO Country Office for Lesotho has received funding for technical assistance support from GAVI through the health system strengthening platform and wishes to recruit a consultant for this purpose.

Objectives of Technical Assistance

The purpose of this Terms of Reference (ToR) is to outline the scope, objectives, and responsibilities of the technical assistance required to support the Ministry of Health in ensuring the successful implementation of the Measles-Rubella (MR) campaign and the strengthening of data management systems. This request aligns with the Health System Strengthening (HSS) plan, aiming to enhance immunization coverage, improve data quality, and support evidence-based decision-making for sustainable health outcomes.

Scope of work and focus

Under the overall supervision of the WHO Representative or his designated technical officer and working under direct coordination of the MOH/EPI manager, the incumbent will be charged with the responsibilities to:

•Provide mentorship to the EPI team (MOH, Partners) both at central and district levels to ensure cascading onboarding package for health facility staff.

•Support stakeholders’ consultations in preparation of programme activities.

O Planning and implementation of the 2025 integrated Measles rubella (MR) campaign.

O Development and implementation of data quality improvement plan

•Undertake any other EPI duties as may be assigned during the period of consultancy.

Deliverables

The consultant is to ensure robust and impactful EPI programme support to prepare and successfully implement the following programme activities.

•Planning and implementation of Measles/Rubella (MR) campaign.

•Development and implementation of data quality improvement plan

•Undertake any other EPI duties as may be assigned during the period of consultancy

Specific deliverables are:

•An inception report including a Gantt chart highlighting tangible deliverables and associated timelines.

•An End-of-mission report specifying work done and results achieved

•Comprehensive report on immunization in Lesotho, which can be published on WHO website and serve as a basis for various advocacy and communication materials

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Essential:

A first degree in a relevant field of public health such as medicine, nursing, public health or closely related field. In addition, the individual should possess a post-graduate qualification at the level of a master’s degree and above in public health, epidemiology, or in any of the above relevant fields.

Relevant/desirable:

At least 5 years of hands-on work experience in the field of immunization, or disease control in resource limited settings. Prior work in supporting national EPI programmes or experience with UN agencies or other international and national organizations in the relevant field will be an added advantage. Excellent writing and communication skills in the English language are required.

DURATION OF RENEWED CONSULTANCY

•The assignment is planned to run for an initial period of seven months (01 June – 31 December 2025).

Cost for consultancy:

•Commensurate with qualification, experience and applicable scale as implemented by WHO (P3 Level).