Website UNFPA Tanzania
UNFPA Tanzania
National Programme Specialist – Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Advocacy
Organization: UNFPA Tanzania
Duty Station: Tanzania
Level: National Programme Specialist
Reports To: Assistant Representative (UNFPA Tanzania)
Technical Guidance: UNFPA HQ Advocacy Specialist
Job Purpose
The National Programme Specialist – MNH Advocacy will lead advocacy efforts aimed at ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths in Tanzania. The role focuses on strengthening midwifery models of care, improving access to quality maternal and newborn health (MNH) services, and ensuring sustainable financing and supply of essential MNH commodities.
The Specialist will design and implement evidence-based advocacy strategies to increase government investment in MNH, align policies with national health frameworks, and support integration of maternal health priorities into health financing and policy systems.
Key Responsibilities
A. Policy Advocacy, Leadership and Strategic Planning
- Develop and implement integrated advocacy strategies for midwifery and MNH commodities
- Align advocacy plans with national health strategies and UNFPA frameworks (EWENE Acceleration Plans)
- Contribute to policy reform, regulatory frameworks, and health financing strategies
- Advocate for inclusion of MNH commodities in essential medicines lists and procurement systems
- Promote digital training tools for midwives and continuous professional development
- Support supply chain strengthening to reduce stock-outs
- Promote domestic investment in midwifery workforce development and retention
- Use evidence, cost-effectiveness, and political analysis to support advocacy messaging
B. Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement
- Engage Ministry of Health, Finance, Planning, Education, parliamentarians, and professional associations
- Build and strengthen national advocacy coalitions on MNH and midwifery
- Strengthen coordination between government, civil society, and development partners
- Support integration of MNH advocacy into national technical working groups
C. Evidence Generation and Knowledge Sharing
- Coordinate investment case analysis with consultants and government stakeholders
- Document and integrate MNH priorities into digital health strategies
- Prepare advocacy materials (briefs, talking points, reports, statements)
- Capture and share best practices and lessons learned in MNH advocacy
D. Programme Management
- Prepare progress reports on MNH advocacy activities
- Identify and apply best practices and innovations
- Ensure integration of MNH advocacy within SRHR programmes
- Support effective implementation and coordination of advocacy initiatives
Qualifications
Education
- Postgraduate degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, International Affairs, Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in advocacy, policy development, or strategic communication
- Experience in policy analysis, advocacy strategy, or government engagement
- Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or civil society organizations
- Experience in maternal and newborn health advocacy is an advantage
- Experience in SMART advocacy or structured advocacy approaches is preferred
Skills and Competencies
- Strong policy analysis and advocacy skills
- Excellent writing and communication skills
- Experience in stakeholder engagement and coalition building
- Understanding of public sector financing and health systems
- Ability to develop evidence-based advocacy strategies
- Strong organizational and coordination skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital tools
Languages
- Fluency in English and Kiswahili is required
- Additional UN languages are an advantage
Core Values (UNFPA)
- Integrity
- Commitment to UN system values
- Respect for diversity
- Adaptability to change
Core Competencies
- Results-oriented mindset
- Accountability
- Analytical and strategic thinking
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Effective communication
Functional Competencies
- Policy advocacy and influencing
- Strategic partnerships and alliances
- Results-based programme delivery
- Advocacy and communication for impact
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary package
- Health insurance
- Additional UNFPA benefits
Important Notice
- UNFPA does not charge any recruitment fees
- Applicants should be cautious of fraud
- Background checks and verification will be conducted
How to Apply:
To submit your application, please follow the link provided below.
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