Overview

• The Unitaid-funded Hepatitis C self-testing (HCVST) project aims to generate evidence on the acceptability, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness of HCV self-testing among key populations and People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in Nasarawa State.
• Building on the success of previous self-testing innovations, the project aims to expand access and promote demand for HCV self-testing, leading to improved screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up outcomes.
• The P.R.E.D.A.M. consultant will be instrumental in furthering these objectives.

Seeking a Visionary Hepatitis P.R.E.D.A.M. Consultant

• Are you a go-getter with a passion for transforming viral hepatitis landscape in Nigeria? We are searching for someone smart, creative, and innovative, who do not just meet expectations but exceed expectations.
• As the P.R.E.D.A.M. consultant, you will have a profound impact on screening, testing, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up systems, revolutionizing viral hepatitis care. Your expertise will drive sustainability and nationwide expansion of the HCVST program.
• With your technical acumen and ability to engage diverse stakeholders, you will shape policies, foster collaboration, and ignite innovation in service delivery, strengthening the overall landscape of viral hepatitis care.
• The Hepatitis P.R.E.D.A.M. Consultant will be embedded in the Federal Ministry of Health (60%) and Nasarawa State Ministry of Health (40%) and will receive support from the Unitaid-funded STAR project team, and other stakeholders.
• Through the successful implementation of the five key tasks outlined below, the position will contribute to the sustainability of HCVST program in Nigeria.
• This framework will encompass financing mechanisms, M&E systems, supply chain management, capacity-building, partnership models, and resource mobilization to ensure long-term program viability and impact. This consultancy will span from July 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023.

Location:

Abuja- 60% with frequent travels to Nasarawa state (40%)

Responsibilities

• Viral Hepatitis Landscape Analysis Report : Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the viral hepatitis landscape in Nigeria, focusing on supply-side actors including Government entities, CSOs, manufacturers, distributors, pharmaceuticals, private sector, regulators, funders, and implementing partners etc. This report will provide critical insights into the ecosystem, enabling effective coordination and collaboration among stakeholders.
• Viral Hepatitis Prevention and Health Promotion Strategy: Through a strong collaboration with stakeholder and in particular civil society and community-based organizations, develop a comprehensive strategy encompassing targeted information materials and a strategic campaign plan for behavioural change. This strategy will focus on creating or adapting culturally appropriate information and communication materials to subnational needs to promote viral hepatitis prevention, screening, and self-testing in key and vulnerable populations.
• HCV self-testing Quantification and Forecasting Report: Prepare a comprehensive report on the quantification and forecasting of HCV self-testing kits for both the private and public sectors over a 5-year period using scientifically valid market assumptions. This report will inform accurate procurement, distribution, and stock management, ensuring a sustainable supply chain.
• HCV self-testing Policy and Guideline Integration: Provide technical expertise in integrating HCVST policies and guidelines into national frameworks, ensuring seamless adoption within existing healthcare systems. This integration will enable streamlined implementation and adherence to regulatory requirements
• Support Supply Side Market Shaping for HCV Self-Testing Kits): The consultant will provide crucial support in shaping the market for HCV self-testing kits, including validation, approval, and nationwide adoption. This involves assisting manufacturers and local distributors to fast track the app roval process, leveraging the WHO Collaborative Registration Procedures waiver with the Medical and Lab Council of Nigeria. The consultant will lead product sensitization efforts, raising stakeholder awareness and promoting the benefits of HCV self-testing. He/She will provide inputs to global pricing agreements and explore innovative financing solutions that will enhance affordability and accessibility of HCVST kits across public sector and private pharmacy settings through partnership with Pharmacy Council of Nigeria and professional associations .

Required Qualifications

The ideal candidate for this senior-level position should possess:

• A minimum of 7 years of post-graduate experience in public health, pharmacy, medicine, biological sciences or related field with a focus on viral hepatitis and HIV prevention, diagnosis, care and treatment.
• Demonstrated expertise in demand creation, market access, and behaviour change communication strategies and innovative financing models for self-care.
• Proven track record in developing policies, guidelines, and technical documents at national and international levels.
• Excellent collaboration and coordination skills, with experience working with government entities, CSOs, and other stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of regulatory processes and engagement with regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance with standards and regulations.
• Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of local languages spoken in Nasarawa State is advantageous.