UNICEF Hiring Consultant – Regional Guiding Framework for Vitamin A Supplementation Reprioritization, East and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, 90 Days (Over A 12-Month Period)

Goal and Objective:  Under the supervision of the ESARO Nutrition Specialist (MIYCN) with close collaboration with WCARO Nutrition Specialist, the consultant will provide technical support for the VAS program in ESA and WCA  regions. Specifically, he/she will:

1. Outline a methodology for developing VAS prioritization framework using available secondary data including DHS, MICS, UNICEF data (Nutridash), UN IGME, and DHIS2 .
2. Develop a regional VAS prioritization framework clearly stating assumptions used.
3. Outline a step-by-step method of using the VAS prioritization framework in situations where the  VAS delivery approach is campaign, blended and routine.
4. Develop a flow diagram (Decision Tree) of the VAS prioritization framework.
5. Using existing datasets, conduct testing of the VAS framework in 4  countries and make necessary adaptations
6. Conduct a dissemination and sensitization workshop for VINA supported countries in ESA and WCA regions.

The following are the tasks to be delivered under phase one of the contract:

7. List secondary data sources and links and define indicators to be computed.
8. Develop methodology for the VAS prioritization framework and clearly identifying limitations and the assumptions being made.
9. Conduct validation meeting of the developed methodology (UNICEF will identify the audience).
10. Develop a VAS prioritization framework clearly stating assumptions used and a detailed step by step outline of using the framework at country level for each VAS delivery approach, that is routine, blended (routine and campaign) and campaign.
11. Develop a flow diagram of the VAS prioritization framework

The following are the tasks to be delivered under phase two of the contract (this phase will start after successful completion of phase 1 activities)

12. Support development of methodology for country level adaption.
13. Facilitate validation of the methodology through dissemination and validation workshop
14. Conduct country-level adaptation of the VAS framework in 4 countries using existing datasets.

• .     Submit a report for both phase 1 and phase 2.

16. Develop a scientific paper for publication

 Work relationships:  The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Regional Nutrition Specialist, MIYCN, ESARO, supported by the Regional Nutrition Advisor in collaboration with the nutrition team in WCARO

1. The Regional Nutrition Specialists in ESARO and WCARO will facilitate communication between the consultant and the country offices. They  will also facilitate invitations for the various validation meetings.
2. The consultant will complete all activities and deliverables listed within the allotted time-frame.

End consultancy performance review will be conducted upon receipt of all deliverables by the consultant, and finalized by ESARO

Desired competencies, technical background and experience

• Education: An Advanced Medical or University Degree in nutrition, public health, pediatric health, child health, or other health related science is required. *A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with at least ten years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.
• A minimum of eight (8) years progressively responsible professional level experience in nutrition programming, including child survival, infant and young child nutrition, and/or maternal, neonatal and child health and nutrition programs including experience in developing countries. Ability to read, analyze and interpret complex documents is required.
• Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) or a local language is an asset. 

Advertised: 11 Jul 2023 E. Africa Standard Time
Deadline: 25 Jul 2023 E. Africa Standard Time

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