Immunization Logistics Officer

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Angola's immunization program is grappling with significant challenges, including low coverage rates and a high number of zero-dose children—those who have not received the Pentavalent 1 vaccine. According to the 2023 WHO and UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC), Angola is among the top 20 countries with the highest number of zero-dose children, with Pentavalent 1 coverage consistently below 80% over the past decade. This persistent issue reflects substantial weaknesses in the health system’s capacity to deliver vaccines effectively, leaving many children at risk of preventable diseases.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges by disrupting health services and diverting resources, leading to a further decline in immunization coverage. Angola is currently facing a widespread measles outbreak affecting 38 municipalities across 13 provinces, as well as an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived poliomyelitis (cVDPV), highlighting the critical consequences of inadequate vaccination coverage. These outbreaks underscore the urgent need for strengthened immunization efforts and better infrastructure.

The immunization logistics system is under considerable strain due to logistical difficulties in vaccine distribution, especially in remote and underserved areas. There is an urgent need to improve the overall logistics of the immunization program, including enhancing vaccine distribution efficiency and addressing gaps in logistical planning and execution.

To address these challenges, the recruitment of a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Immunization Logistics Officer is crucial. The officer working under the supervision and guidance of the Immunization Specialist will play a key role in optimizing the logistics of the immunization program, including improving vaccine distribution and supporting the implementation of effective logistical strategies. By strengthening these areas, the UNV Immunization Logistics Officer will help increase vaccination coverage, and support Angola in achieving its immunization goals.

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision and support from Immunization Specialist or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UN Volunteer Immunization Logistics Officer will:
1. Assist in the preparation of annual immunization forecasts by analyzing historical data, assessing future needs, and coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure accurate and realistic projections.
2. Support the development and implementation of detailed logistics plans for immunization campaigns, including the allocation of resources, transportation routes, and delivery schedules.
3. Regularly assess the performance of the immunization logistics system, identifying gaps and recommending improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
4. Develop and implement contingency plans to address potential disruptions in vaccine supply or logistics infrastructure during emergencies or outbreaks.
5. Work closely with national, regional, and local health authorities, as well as other stakeholders, to ensure efficient logistics planning and execution of immunization activities.
6. Support EPI manager to oversee the procurement, storage, and distribution of vaccines and related supplies to ensure timely and adequate availability at all levels of the health system.
7. Support EPI manager to maintain accurate records of vaccine stock levels, usage, and wastage, and prepare regular inventory reports for decision-making and planning.
8. Actively participate in and provide technical support to the national logistics working group, contributing to discussions, strategy development, and implementation of best practices.
9. Conduct training sessions for health workers on vaccine handling, logistics management, and best practices to build local capacity.
10. Monitor and track vaccine shipments, ensuring close follow-up with the Ministry of Health (MOH) for timely customs clearance and the completion of the electronic Vaccine Arrival Report (e-VAR).
11. Ensure the accurate collection, analysis, and reporting of logistics data to inform decision-making and support the monitoring of immunization program performance.
12. Ensure that all logistics activities comply with national and international standards, regulations, and guidelines, and prepare regular reports for submission to relevant authorities.
13. Perform any other duties as may be required from time to time