KINGDOM OF ESWATINI
CONSULTANCY SERVICES
TERMS OF REFERENCE AND SCOPE OF SERVICES
EPIDEMIOLOGIST/SURVEY SPECIALIST
Type of Contract Short-term technical assistance/consultancy
Expertise Required One (1) Epidemiologist/Survey Specialist
Duty Station Mbabane, Eswatini, with travel to selected regions and facilities in Eswatini
Duration 21 days
Fieldwork Dates 08 -19 June 2026
Language English
The Kingdom of Eswatini continues to face a complex and evolving disease burden characterized by a high prevalence of HIV, a persistent tuberculosis (TB) epidemic, and a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, alongside emerging priorities in viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The country has achieved significant milestones in the HIV response, including attainment of the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, and has made notable progress in reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV through the scale-up of lifelong antiretroviral therapy under the PMTCT programme. Despite these achievements, important gaps remain, including ongoing HIV transmission among adolescent girls and young women and other priority populations, late diagnosis, treatment interruptions, and suboptimal outcomes in specific sub-groups.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Mbabane
- Category: Public Health
- Closing Date: 2026-05-14
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse national TB/HIV epidemiological trends and burden of disease
- Review and interpret findings from key surveys (e.g., population-based surveys, surveillance data)
- Assess incidence, prevalence, mortality, and cascade indicators
- Support triangulation of survey, routine, and program data
- Generate evidence-based insights to inform programmatic and strategic decisions
- Review key documents (National Strategic Plans, surveillance reports, survey reports such as PHIA, DHS, TB prevalence surveys)
- Develop an analytical framework for epidemiological assessment
- Identify key indicators and data sources for analysis
- Analyse trends in: HIV prevalence and incidence; TB incidence, notification, and mortality; TB/HIV co-infection rates
- Assess progress toward national and global targets (e.g., 95-95-95, End TB Strategy)
- Conduct disaggregation by age, sex, geography, and key populations
- Review methodology, quality, and findings of key surveys and surveillance systems
- Assess representativeness, biases, and limitations of survey data
- Compare survey findings with routine program data
- Identify discrepancies and explain observed differences
- Integrate findings from: Routine health information systems; Surveys and surveillance; Laboratory and mortality data
- Provide a coherent epidemiological narrative of the TB/HIV epidemic
- Support estimation of incidence, mortality, and projections (where tools/models are available)
- Interpret model outputs for programmatic use
- Participate in stakeholder consultations and review meetings
- Support interpretation of findings during field visits (if required)
- Contribute to the epidemiology and impact sections of the Joint Review report
- Develop clear data visualizations (graphs, charts, maps)
- Present findings and recommendations to stakeholders
Requirements
- Advanced degree in: Epidemiology, Public Health, Biostatistics, or related field
- At least 5 years’ experience in epidemiological analysis and/or public health surveys
- Demonstrated experience with: HIV and/or TB epidemiology
- Population-based surveys (e.g., DHS, PHIA)
- Surveillance systems and data interpretation
- Strong analytical skills using: Statistical software (R, STATA, SPSS, etc.)
- Experience in program reviews, evaluations, or impact assessments is an advantage
- Strong analytical and interpretation skills
- Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights
- Excellent data visualization and reporting skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to work under tight timelines
- Prior work experience in Eswatini or comparable high HIV burden settings.
- Experience in HIV drug resistance, differentiated service delivery, quality improvement and programme sustainability planning.
- Experience bridging prevention and treatment programming rather than working in a single technical silo.
- Familiarity with donor-supported HIV programme reviews and joint government-partner review procedures
Application Details
Requirements (Submit the following):
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified academic certificates
- Recent Good Clinical Practice certificate
- Cover letter indicating the position applied for
Submission Email:
snapresource@gmail.com
Address:
The Principal Secretary
Ministry of Health
P.O. Box 5
Mbabane, Eswatini
Deadline:
14 May 2026
Important Note:
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
If you don’t hear back within 3 weeks after the deadline, consider your application unsuccessful
About the Company
The Ministry of Health is a pivotal government institution in Eswatini, mandated to uplift the nation's public health standards. It is responsible for the crucial task of formulating and implementing national health policies, regulations, and comprehensive programs across the country. This Ministry oversees an extensive network of public hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, striving to guarantee access to essential medical services for all Emaswati. Its strategic initiatives are deeply focused on disease prevention, advancing maternal and child health, and fortifying primary healthcare systems throughout Eswatini. Ultimately, the Ministry of Health is dedicated to ensuring quality, equitable, and accessible healthcare services to enhance the overall well-being of the Eswatini population.
Ensuring quality, equitable, and accessible healthcare for all in Eswatini.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Epidemiologist/Survey Specialist role at the Ministry of Health in Eswatini?
A Master's degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field is usually essential, often coupled with a relevant Bachelor's degree. Practical experience in data analysis, research methodology, and public health surveillance is highly valued for this role.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Epidemiologist/Survey Specialist within the Eswatini Ministry of Health?
Daily tasks involve designing and implementing health surveys, analyzing epidemiological data to identify disease trends, and preparing comprehensive reports for public health interventions. You would also contribute to outbreak investigations and support evidence-based policy making within the ministry.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a public health professional working for the Ministry of Health in Eswatini?
The work culture often emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and a strong commitment to public service in Eswatini. Professionals are expected to be adaptable, resourceful, and culturally sensitive, often working closely with local communities and various health stakeholders.
What are the realistic career progression paths for an Epidemiologist/Survey Specialist in the Eswatini Ministry of Health?
Career progression typically involves moving into senior epidemiologist roles, program management positions, or specialized research units within the Ministry of Health. Opportunities may also arise for leadership roles within specific disease control programs or at a national policy level.
What typical benefits can one expect, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, when working for the Ministry of Health in Eswatini?
Employees usually receive standard government benefits, which include a set number of annual leave days, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave. Medical aid coverage and participation in a government pension scheme are typically provided as part of the employment package.
How does one typically apply for this role, and what specific qualities or experiences do employers in Eswatini's public health sector look for?
Applications are usually submitted through official government channels, often requiring a detailed CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Employers seek candidates with strong analytical skills, experience in Eswatini's health context, and a clear understanding of public health challenges.