The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the Pandemic Fund project ,”From Early Warning to Early Action: Building Zimbabwe’s One Health Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (ZIPOH)”, to strengthen integrated national systems for prevention, preparedness and response to health threats. The National One Health and AMR Coordinator will serve as the principal national focal point for coordination of One Health and antimicrobial resistance activities under the project. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to Zimbabwe’s national health security agenda by strengthening One Health coordination, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) governance, integrated disease surveillance, laboratory systems and multisectoral collaboration. The incumbent will play a key role in advancing national pandemic preparedness and response capacities while supporting implementation of Zimbabwe’s One Health and AMR priorities.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-09-07
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate implementation of Pandemic Fund activities in Zimbabwe.
- Support preparation and execution of annual work plans and implementation schedules.
- Facilitate collaboration between animal, human, wildlife and environmental health sectors.
- Support implementation of Zimbabwe’s National Action Plan on AMR.
- Support development and strengthening of integrated AMR surveillance systems.
- Strengthen laboratory quality systems, biosafety and biosecurity.
- Support strengthening of surveillance systems for zoonotic diseases and emerging threats.
- Organize and facilitate capacity-building activities on One Health, AMR, laboratory systems and pandemic preparedness.
- Coordinate stakeholder engagement and information-sharing among partners.
- Prepare technical reports, donor updates, progress reports and knowledge products.
Requirements
- Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Veterinary Medicine, Public Health, Epidemiology, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Microbiology, One Health, Animal Health, Biomedical Science, or related discipline
- Minimum seven (7) years of relevant professional experience in One Health, antimicrobial resistance, public health, veterinary public health, laboratory systems, zoonotic disease programmes or related fields.
- Working knowledge (Level C) of English
- National of Zimbabwe
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ihararejobs.com
About the Company
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialised UN agency that has operated in Zimbabwe since 1981, with its country office located in Harare. In Zimbabwe, FAO works alongside the Government of Zimbabwe, farmers, and development partners to strengthen food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and build resilience against climate shocks such as drought. Its programmes cover areas including crop and livestock production, fisheries, forestry, land and water management, and emergency response to food crises. FAO Zimbabwe also supports national policy development and provides technical assistance to smallholder farmers across the country's rural provinces.
Working for a world free of hunger and malnutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a National One Health and AMR Coordinator at FAO in Zimbabwe?
Typically you need an advanced degree (Master's or higher) in veterinary science, public health, microbiology, pharmacy, or a related field. Experience working on antimicrobial resistance, One Health approaches, or with government ministries such as Health and Child Care or Lands, Agriculture is highly valued. Professional certifications in epidemiology or AMR surveillance strengthen your application.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
You would coordinate One Health and AMR activities across sectors, working closely with the Zimbabwe National Antimicrobial Resistance Core Group and stakeholders like the Ministry of Health, Veterinary Services Department, and EMA. Duties include developing national action plans, supporting surveillance systems, organizing stakeholder meetings and training, and reporting progress to FAO and government partners. The role involves both technical coordination and advocacy work at national level.
How do I apply for FAO jobs in Zimbabwe?
Applications are submitted through the official FAO careers website (jobs.fao.org) using the online recruitment system called iRecruitment. You will need to create a profile, upload your CV and cover letter, and apply before the stated deadline. Beware of scams — FAO never charges fees for applications, so only use official channels.
What benefits does FAO typically offer staff in Zimbabwe?
FAO generally offers internationally competitive packages that may include medical insurance coverage, pension contributions, and paid annual leave. Benefits vary depending on contract type (national vs international) and grade level. Specific entitlements are outlined in the offer letter once selected.
What career progression can I expect from this coordinator role?
This role builds strong experience in multi-sectoral health coordination, which opens doors to senior technical advisor positions within FAO, WHO, WOAH, or national government programmes. Many coordinators progress into regional roles covering Southern Africa or move into policy leadership positions. Building networks through platforms like the Tripartite (FAO-WHO-WOAH) significantly boosts advancement prospects.
What does FAO look for in candidates in the Zimbabwe context?
Employers value demonstrated experience engaging with Zimbabwean government structures, understanding of local agricultural and health systems, and ability to work across disciplines. Strong communication skills in English are essential, and knowledge of local languages like Shona or Ndebele is an advantage for community-level engagement. Proven experience managing donor-funded projects and producing quality reports is also highly regarded.