National Health Spending Efficiency Analysis Consultant (nationals-only)

About the role

The consultant will support UNICEF’s Health and Social Policy teams in analysing the efficiency of health spending in Malawi. Working remotely with periodic field visits to three districts, the role focuses on developing analytical tools, assessing financing trends, and strengthening district‑level financial monitoring.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare an inception report outlining methodology, analytical framework, workplan, stakeholder engagement approach, and data requirements.
• Develop or refine tools and templates for expenditure analysis, budget tracking, cash‑flow forecasting, procurement monitoring, and financial performance assessment.
• Strengthen district‑level financial monitoring tools, including Excel or DHIS‑linked systems for expenditure tracking and reporting.
• Conduct a comprehensive analysis of health financing and expenditure trends over the last five fiscal years at national and district levels.
• Assess financing adequacy, budget execution, efficiency, equity, and sustainability across key programme areas.
• Evaluate district planning, budgeting, procurement processes, cash‑flow management, and financial reporting systems to identify bottlenecks.
• Analyse alignment between District Implementation Plans, approved budgets, and actual expenditures.

Required profile

• University degree in health economics, public finance, public health, or a related field.
• Proven experience in health financing analysis, public financial management, or similar consultancy work.
• Familiarity with Malawi’s health system, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Finance processes.
• Ability to work independently, coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and travel to district sites.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Experience with DHIS or DHIS‑2 linked monitoring systems.

What we offer

• Four‑month consultancy contract with UNICEF.
• Remote work arrangement complemented by field visits in Mzimba South, Kasungu, and Chikwawa districts.
• Opportunity to influence health financing policies and improve service delivery in Malawi.