05/06/2026
VACANCY ALERT
WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION LESOTHO
Position: Communications Assistant
Salary: ~ LSL 25,050.00
Purpose of the post
The incumbent will support the implementation of the WHO Country Office communication strategies in line with programme priorities and organizational objectives, within the context of WHO’s strategic direction at country level. The role aims to promote awareness, increase visibility, and strengthen public understanding of the work and achievements of the WHO Country Office.
Objectives of the programme
Overview of the programme
• Awareness building and information dissemination: Lead the creation and dissemination of communication products (e.g., news releases, social media content, fact sheets, and feature stories) to promote WHO’s work, communicate key public health messages, and meet the information needs of the public, donors, and stakeholders.
• Advocacy and campaigning: Support the development and implementation of advocacy and communication campaigns on priority health issues (e.g., noncommunicable diseases, health emergencies, and outbreak response) to raise awareness and encourage action.
• Media and external relations management: Support media outreach activities, including crisis and emergency communications, organization of press conferences, media briefings, and interviews, while building and maintaining productive relationships with the media to ensure optimal coverage of WHO’s work.
• Content development and storytelling: Identify compelling stories and success cases; research, write, and edit high-quality, evidence-based communication materials including web stories, photo essays, videos, and human-interest stories.
• Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE): Support the design and implementation of risk communication and community engagement strategies during public health emergencies, outbreaks, and humanitarian situations to promote timely, accurate, and trusted public health information and community participation.
• Risk and reputation management: Monitor media coverage and audience perceptions to identify communication gaps, propose risk-mitigation measures, and protect the organization’s reputation and ethical standards.
• Supporting internal and external stakeholders: Provide communications support and guidance to leadership, technical teams, and partners, while collaborating with UN agencies and other stakeholders to ensure consistency and alignment of messaging.
• Ensuring quality and consistency: Support the management, maintenance of communication platforms, including websites and social media channels, in compliance with WHO branding, editorial standards, and house style guidelines.
Functional skills and knowledge
• Sound understanding of public health and international development issues.
• Proven skills in the development and implementation of communication and media products and approaches, including strong writing and editing skills.
• Ability to represent and promote the WHO brand across digital platforms, virtual communities, and professional networks.
• Ability to develop strategic messaging and positioning for an international organization.
• Ability to identify, document, and communicate success stories effectively.
• Knowledge of WHO and United Nations programmes, systems, and practices.
• Understanding of WHO’s mandate and goals within the context of emergency incident management.
EDUCATION
Essential
A university degree (Bachelor’s level) in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, political science, international relations, or related disciplines.
Desirable
• Formal qualifications in public health.
• Training in communication techniques, graphic design, social media management.
• Training in risk communication.
• A Master’s degree in any of the above fields would be an added advantage.
EXPERIENCE
Essential
• A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in delivering communication services and products at the national level.
Desirable
• Experience working with international organizations, the United Nations system, Development organizations or public health programmes would be an added advantage.
Languages
• Excellent knowledge of English is essential.
• Working knowledge of French or another WHO official language would be an asset.
Other skills
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook), with strong proficiency in Excel or similar spreadsheet applications.
Apply
Qualified candidates should send their CV to this email: [email protected]
Deadline for submission of Application: 7th June 2026