Regional Learning and Knowledge Specialist at East, Central and Southern African Health Community (ECSA-HC) , Arusha September 2026

1.0 Background

2.0 Program Development Objective (PDO)

3.0 MPA Program Components

1. Strengthening preparedness and resilience of regional and national health systems to manage health emergencies
2. Improving detection and response to health emergencies at regional and national levels
3. Program management
4. Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC)

3.1 Overall Objective

3.2 Specific Responsibilities

• Coordinate implementation of the HEPRR-MPA Learning Agenda at regional level, including annual review, prioritization and updating of learning questions and research priorities.
• Support regional coherence and alignment for the learning agenda between IGAD, WB, ECSA-HC, and participating countries.
• Develop and maintain a Learning Agenda tracker, consolidating country progress on learning products, research proposals, evaluations, after-action reviews (AARs), and dissemination activities.
• Support countries and Communities of Practice (CoPs) to formulate, cost and implement priority learning activities, including operational/implementation research and rapid learning during outbreaks.
• Provide technical support for knowledge product development (e.g., evidence briefs, case studies, success stories, policy briefs, manuscripts) and ensure alignment with quality standards and target audiences.
• Coordinate peer learning and cross-country knowledge exchange through webinars, learning forums, regional newsletters, and the regional knowledge hub.
• Coordinate planning and delivery of regional writing workshops and manuscript development processes to accelerate peer-reviewed publications on HEPRR innovations and lessons learned.
• Translate complex evidence into clear, audience-specific content for policymakers, programme teams, and partners.
• Support the integration of learning and adaptation into HEPRR MPA implementation and reporting processes.
• Liaise with partners (e.g., WHO, Africa CDC, IGAD, IOM, academia) to support joint learning, harmonized tools, and dissemination of regional evidence.
• Contribute to biannual/annual program reports and technical briefs, including learning sections for RAC and donor reporting.

4.0 Key Educational Qualifications and Professional Experience

• A Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in public health/ Global Health/ Health Policy/ Monitoring and Evaluation/ Health Systems/ Implementation Science/ Health Communication/ Knowledge Management or a related field; a PhD is an added advantage.
• Additional training in implementation science, knowledge translation, science communication, research utilization, or One Health is desirable.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in learning agenda coordination, operational/implementation research, knowledge management, M&E, or health systems strengthening—preferably in multi-country or regional programs.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing knowledge products (policy briefs, case studies, evidence syntheses, manuscripts) and supporting publication processes.
• Experience coordinating multi-stakeholder processes (countries, partners, academia) and facilitating peer learning platforms (webinars, communities of practice, learning events).
• Experience working with governments, regional institutions, implementing partners, and development partners is essential.
• Proven skills in data interpretation and translating evidence into program and policy recommendations.

5.0 Essential Skills and Competencies Required

• Excellent writing, editing and synthesis skills for technical and policy audiences.
• Strong facilitation and coordination skills, including ability to manage multi-country workplans and deliverables.
• Competence in knowledge translation methods and evidence-to-policy approaches.
• Ability to work effectively in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams and to engage senior stakeholders diplomatically.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with collaboration tools and reference management software.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines under minimal supervision.

6.0 Reporting and Institutional Framework

7.0 Duty Station

8.0 Contract Appointment

9.0 Method of Application

• Brief Application Letter stating why the candidate feels suitable for the post.
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Completed Application form for ECSA-HC posts (available under vacancies/opportunities jobs on www.ecsahc.org).
• Certified Copies of Educational and Professional Certificates.
• Names of three (3) professional referees with their addresses, including telephone, fax, and e-mail.

10.0 Deadline for Applications

• Tel: Off: +255-27-250 8362/3; 250 4106
• Fax: +255-27-254125/250 8292
• E-mail: vacancies@ecsahc.org
• Website: www.ecsahc.org