Job ID: 303626

International Consultant

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

Location: Remote, Regional / Global

Apply by: 22 Apr 2026

Relevant Sectors

Fundraising, Business Development, Grants Writer

Health, Doctors, Nurses, HIV/AIDS

Social, Education, Gender, Youth, Child

International Consultant – Conduct Regional Analysis on Adolescent Pregnancy and HIV in West and Central Africa

Context: A Dual Public Health and Development Crisis
West and Central Africa continues to face a critical burden of adolescent pregnancy and HIV. These issues are deeply interconnected and driven by structural inequalities.
Key contextual insights include:
* One in three girls becomes a mother before age 20
* Approximately 5.2 million people are living with HIV in the region
* Young women aged 15–24 account for a disproportionately high share of new infections
* Progress in reducing HIV infections remains below global targets
Underlying challenges include:
* Gender inequality and limited autonomy for young women
* Early marriage and school dropout
* Stigma and limited access to integrated health services
* Gaps in prevention investment and service delivery
The consultancy aims to address these interconnected vulnerabilities through evidence-based solutions.

Purpose of the Consultancy
The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive, youth-informed evidence base that guides strategic interventions under UNFPA's regional roadmap for reducing maternal mortality (2025–2029).
The consultant will lead the full cycle of:
* Research and data analysis
* Stakeholder engagement and co-creation
* Tool development and knowledge translation
* Dissemination and policy integration

Expected Deliverables
The consultancy will produce three major outputs:
* A comprehensive technical report analysing drivers, impacts, and solutions
* An Advocacy and Messaging Toolkit including policy briefs and guidance materials
* An Evidence Uptake Pathway outlining how findings inform policy and programmes
These outputs are designed to influence regional strategies and national-level interventions.

Scope of Work and Phased Approach
The assignment is structured across four key phases:
Phase 1: Inception and Methodology
* Conduct a desk review of key data sources and surveys
* Develop a mixed-methods research framework
* Identify high-burden pilot countries
* Design a participatory approach involving youth stakeholders
Phase 2: Data Analysis and Synthesis
* Analyse large-scale datasets to identify trends and inequalities
* Map and assess existing interventions
* Develop analytical content for the technical report
* Validate findings through youth engagement platforms
Phase 3: Co-Creation of Advocacy Tools
* Facilitate workshops with youth networks
* Translate findings into accessible tools
* Develop policy briefs, programme guidance, and messaging materials
Phase 4: Finalisation and Dissemination
* Finalise all outputs with stakeholder feedback
* Support a regional virtual launch event
* Develop a practical uptake strategy for policy and programme use
* Conduct final briefings and handover

Required Qualifications and Expertise
The consultancy targets senior-level experts with extensive experience in public health and development.
Education
* Advanced degree (Master's or PhD preferred) in public health, demography, epidemiology, sociology, economics, or related fields
Professional Experience
* Minimum of 10 years in public health research or programme design
* Expertise in sexual and reproductive health, particularly for adolescents
* Experience analysing large-scale survey data (e.g., DHS, MICS)
* Background in economic analysis and investment case development
* Proven experience in participatory and youth-centered research
Key Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate demonstrates:
* Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
* Ability to translate complex findings into clear policy messages
* Experience managing multi-country assignments
* Strong stakeholder coordination and partnership-building skills
* Commitment to human rights, gender equality, and ethical research practices

Language Requirements
* Fluency in both English and French (required)
* Working knowledge of Portuguese (advantageous)

Working Conditions
* Fully remote (home-based) consultancy
* Collaboration with regional and country-level UNFPA teams
* Engagement with diverse stakeholders, including youth networks and policymakers

For complete job description and to apply, visit:
https://www.globalsouthopportunities.com/2026/04/18/inter/

HOW TO APPLY:
Candidates must submit:
* A detailed CV
* A cover letter demonstrating alignment with the consultancy requirements
Applications should be sent via email before the deadline of 22 April 2026.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY (https://www.unfpa.org/jobs/international-consultant-conduct-regional-analysis-adolescent-pregnancy-and-hiv-west-and)