Mission and objectivesWHO SLB organization mission TBD
ContextWHO in the Solomon Islands Key Project Focus Areas: โข Transformative Primary Health Care: WHO supports the Solomon Islands in strengthening primary health care as the foundation for universal health coverage. This includes addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases, mental health, and oral health [1]. โข Climate-Resilient Health Systems: Given the countryโs vulnerability to sea-level rise and extreme weather, WHO is helping build resilient health infrastructure and emergency preparedness [1]. โข Digital Health and Financing: WHO is working with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) to improve digital health systems and health financing mechanisms. This includes budget execution studies and reforms to improve efficiency and accountability [2]. Stakeholders: โข Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) โข WHO Western Pacific Regional Office โข Local health facilities and communities โข KOICA and other international donors KOICA is a key development partner in the Pacific, including the Solomon Islands, focusing on health system strengthening, capacity building, and sustainable development. The Procurement Assistant role is likely tied to a joint health project aimed at improving medical supply chains, infrastructure, or emergency preparednessโareas where KOICA and WHO have previously collaborated. Therefore, to ensure efficient and transparent implementation of this partnership while delivering impactful health development initiatives for the people of the Solomon Islands, WHO must invest in the following key areas: Procurement Efficiency: WHO needs dedicated support to manage procurement processes in line with international standards, especially for donor-funded projects. Project Implementation: The assistant will help ensure timely and transparent procurement of goods and services, which is critical for the success of health interventions. Capacity Building: This role may also contribute to building local procurement capacity, aligning with KOICAโs development goals. Outcomes: โข Improved access to essential health services. โข Strengthened health system governance and financing. โข Enhanced preparedness for climate-related and public health emergencies. โข Ongoing reforms in digital health and budget execution.
Task Descriptionโข To support the World Health Organization (WHO) SLB in its project Procurement formalities and ensure delivery of the items on time. โข To collaborate with the KOICA Project Management officer and project team and to initiate the procurement process and provide end-to-end support till the delivery of the supply. โข To update the Project manager, KOICA project team and the MHMS on the procurement status and follow up with relevant external stakeholders and partners
Competencies and valuesโข Accountability โข Adaptability and flexibility โข Creativity โข Judgement and decision-making โข Planning and organising โข Professionalism โข Self-management
Living conditions and remarksClimate: The Solomon Islands has a tropical climate that is warm and humid year-round, with an annual average temperature of around 27โ30ยฐC. There are two distinct seasons: the wet season from November to April, characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional tropical cyclones, and the dry season from May to October, which brings less rainfall and cooler trade winds. Coastal areas remain warm throughout the year, while inland regions with higher elevations experience slightly cooler temperatures. Health: Public hospitals and private clinics provide healthcare services, with the National Referral Hospital in Honiara serving as the main medical facility. However, medical infrastructure and specialized care are limited, making it necessary to evacuate to neighboring countries like Australia or New Zealand for complex medical treatments. Several private clinics in Honiara cater to expatriates and UN staff, offering basic healthcare services. Diet, Food, and Water: Markets in urban centers offer staples such as rice, fish, fresh vegetables, and fruits. While local cuisine is prevalent, a variety of international food options, including Western and Asian fare, can be found, especially in Honiara. Meals range in price from $5 to $20+. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for consumption. Telecommunications: The Solomon Islands has two major telecom providers: Bmobile, and Our Telekom. SIM cards cost approximately SBD $20โ30, and pre-paid top-up options range from SBD $10 to $200. Internet and mobile connectivity are improving, particularly in urban areas, but coverage may be limited in rural regions. Accommodation: The UNV Field Unit in Honiara can assist in arranging initial accommodation at hotels, typically at the volunteerโs expense. Long-term housing options can be explored after arrival, with varying costs depending on location and amenities.