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Malawi’s immunization programme, under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), has made significant strides in vaccine coverage over the years, achieving over 90% coverage in key vaccines such as DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis), with DTP3 reaching 91% in 2023. However, there are ongoing challenges, particularly in maintaining and expanding the cold chain infrastructure, which is vital for vaccine efficacy. The cold chain system ensures vaccines are stored and transported at appropriate temperatures to prevent spoilage, especially for sensitive vaccines like those for COVID-19(Gavi)(UNICEF).
Malawi’s cold chain infrastructure has seen recent improvements, including the introduction of new refrigerators, cold boxes, and vaccine carriers funded by partners. However, old equipment and frequent breakdowns still pose a risk to maintaining vaccine potency, especially in rural areas where health facilities are spread out (UNICEF)(Malawi_WUNIC_24_July).
Moreover, the country continues to face challenges in reducing the number of zero-dose and under-vaccinated children. In 2023, Malawi reported approximately 32,000 zero-dose children, a reduction from previous years but still a significant number requiring focused intervention. In particular, the coverage of the Measles-Containing Vaccine (MCV1) has dropped from 92% in 2019 to 87% in 2023, leaving 84,000 children vulnerable to measles outbreaks (Malawi_WUNIC_24_July). These gaps in vaccine coverage and the need for a robust cold chain system underscore the urgency of strengthening the infrastructure and workforce to ensure vaccines reach all communities effectively.
To address these challenges, there is a critical need to hire a National Immunization Cold Chain Consultant. The consultant’s role will be essential in:
- Maintaining and Strengthening Cold Chain Systems: Malawi’s cold chain infrastructure, while improved, still requires regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent equipment breakdowns and ensure uninterrupted vaccine supply, especially in rural areas. The consultant will provide technical support for assessing cold chain equipment, overseeing repairs, and ensuring alignment with WHO standards(Sustainable Energy for All | SEforALL).
- Capacity Building: There is an ongoing need to train cold chain technicians and health workers in the proper use and maintenance of cold chain systems. The consultant will be responsible for organizing training programmes, ensuring that staff at all levels are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle vaccines safely and efficiently.
- Integration of Modern Monitoring Systems: With the introduction of QR code systems for temperature monitoring, it is critical to have an expert who can facilitate the integration of real-time data into the cold chain system. This will help reduce vaccine wastage and improve the traceability of vaccine stocks (Sustainable Energy for All | SEforALL)(Malawi_WUNIC_24_July).
- Supporting Vaccine Deployment for Emergency Campaigns: The consultant will play a pivotal role in supporting emergency vaccine campaigns, such as those for COVID-19 and MR. This includes ensuring that cold chain systems are fully operational to handle increased vaccine storage and distribution requirements, as well as coordinating the delivery of vaccines to remote and hard-to-reach areas (UNICEF).
- Reducing Zero-Dose and Under-Vaccinated Children: With thousands of zero-dose and under-vaccinated children still at risk, the consultant will work with the Ministry of Health to identify gaps in vaccine delivery and propose strategies to improve coverage. This includes addressing logistical challenges and ensuring that vaccines are delivered to every community.
The consultant’s expertise will be vital in ensuring that Malawi continues to improve its immunization coverage and meets its Immunization Agenda 2030 targets, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for the population.
How can you make a difference?
The consultant will support the operational efficiency of Malawi’s cold chain system by conducting assessments, ensuring maintenance, and upgrading cold chain equipment. They will organize and deliver training for health workers and technicians on cold chain management and vaccine storage. The consultant will also oversee the integration of temperature monitoring systems and data analytics for real-time cold chain monitoring. In addition, they will ensure that cold chain systems are aligned with WHO standards and are capable of supporting both routine immunization and emergency campaigns.
To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…
Academic qualification:
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
Work experience:
- At least 5years of professional experience in immunization programmes or health supply chain management, with a specific focus on cold chain systems.
- Experience in Capacity-building including training health workers and Cold Chain technicians on the updated Standard Operation Procedures.
- Proven experience in supporting large-scale vaccine deployment, including routine immunizations and emergency campaigns.
- Experience working government health systems, NGOs, or international organizations, particularly in low-resource settings.
- Experience working with UN will be an asset.
Technical skills, knowledge, and strength areas:
- Strong expertise in cold chain management, including temperature monitoring, equipment maintenance, and data integration systems.
- Familiarity with WHO guidelines on cold chain and vaccine storage.
- Analytical skills for assessing cold chain systems, identifying gaps, and recommending improvements.
- Proficiency in managing immunization logistics for both routine and emergency settings.
Languages:
- Good in English – both written and spoken is required.
Please refer to the attached full Terms of Reference 
Terms of Reference_National Cold Chain and Vaccine Management.pdf for more details on the consultancy and requirements.
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