The World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity, for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
At WFP, people are at the heart of everything we do and the vision of the future WFP workforce is one of diverse, committed, skilled, and high performing teams, selected on merit, operating in a healthy and inclusive work environment, living WFP’s values (Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion) and working with partners to save and change the lives of those WFP serves.
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian agency working to combat global hunger. WFP provides life-saving food assistance in emergencies and works with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. Guided by Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), WFP supports national governments in strengthening food systems, improving livelihoods, and enhancing climate resilience, with a strong focus on vulnerable groups such as women, children, and displaced populations.
This job is located in the Malawi Country Office (CO). Medical Doctor/ Officer shall report technically to the Lead Physician at the CO and the Regional Medical Officer based in Johannesburg, and for the routine administrative issues to the WFP Resource Manager and WFP Malawi Country Director.
The UN Doctor will be appointed as a surge staff for areas of staff health and safety while providing hygiene and safety training, personal first aid training, review of medical and casualty response, assessment of health, safety and environmental issues of UN staff and dependents.
The Doctor will also conduct Wellness activities including Health Promotion events.
Job Summary
- Employer: World Food Programme (WFP)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-10-10
Key Responsibilities
- Ensuring evidence-based patient care and practice in line with Medical Professional Standards and deontological norms;
- Providing consultations to UN agency employees and eligible family members;
- Managing patient referrals appropriately and providing follow up/case management for the referrals in Malawi and abroad;
- Coordinating and ensuring highest level of patient care with UN agency Doctors including weekly peer review of clinical cases
- For epidemiological purposes, reporting to the Chief Medical Officer on at least monthly basis: cumulative diagnoses seen diagnoses per contract type, gender
- Participating in Campaigns on health promotion (e.g. healthy lifestyle, stress management) and injury and illness prevention (e.g. use of personal protective equipment, personal precautions for the prevention of transmissible diseases) through employee and family member briefings, in newsletters and when requested by Lead doctor, resource manager or wellness focal point.
- Securing and protecting confidential patient information by recording all consultations in the Electronic Medical Records system – without sharing any patient information with UN agency except the minimum necessary for medical evacuations, emergency care or referrals;
- Liaising with the Country Office or Regional Staff Counsellors for employees/family members requiring their intervention or attention;
Requirements
- Degree in Medicine and Surgery (MB ChB, MBBS, MD) or demonstrably equivalent studies from a recognized institution.
- An advanced diploma or degree in a clinical field beyond the primary degree is desirable.
- Registration as a General Practitioner in the country of origin is required.
- Experience in any outbreak response and emergencies, in-patient and out-patient care is mandatory.
- Exposure to basic and advanced life support, including critical care, and/or medical evacuation is desirable.
- Excellent communication, presentation and drafting skills;
- Experience in emergency management (crisis or disaster medicine), travel medicine, tropical and infectious disease;
- Knowledge of addressing the psychosocial needs of humanitarian workers; Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; Remains calm in stressful situation
- Language: English – working knowledge ☒ fluent ☒
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: wd3.myworkdaysite.com
REF Code: JR127042
About the Company
The World Food Programme (WFP) is an international organization within the United Nations (UN) that provides food assistance worldwide. It is the world's largest humanitarian organization and the leading provider of school meals. Founded in 1961, WFP is headquartered in Rome and has offices in 87 countries. In 2023 it supported over 152 million people, and it is present in more than 120 countries and territories.
Website: https://www.wfp.org/countries/malawi
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are required to become a Medical Officer at WFP in Malawi?
You typically need a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from a recognized university, plus full registration with the Medical Council of Malawi. A valid practicing license and at least 2-3 years of clinical experience are usually required. Additional certifications in public health, tropical medicine, or emergency response are highly advantageous for humanitarian roles.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Medical Officer at WFP in Malawi?
You will conduct health assessments of beneficiaries, oversee nutrition screening programs, and coordinate with local health facilities in refugee camps or food-insecure districts. Daily tasks include supervising community health workers, managing medical supplies, and reporting disease outbreaks to district health offices. You may also train staff on health protocols and support emergency food distribution sites.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for Medical Officers at international organizations like WFP compared to Malawian public hospitals?
WFP emphasizes strict accountability, detailed documentation, and adherence to international humanitarian standards alongside national protocols. Expect more field travel to remote areas, tighter deadlines tied to donor reporting, and collaborative work with diverse international and local teams. Professionalism in English communication and flexibility in challenging environments are essential.
What career progression opportunities exist for Medical Officers working with WFP or similar organizations in Malawi?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Medical Officer, Health and Nutrition Programme Officer, or Country-level Health Advisor positions. Many professionals transition to regional roles covering Southern Africa, or move into policy advisory positions with the Ministry of Health or WHO. Pursuing a Master's in Public Health or Tropical Medicine significantly accelerates promotion prospects.
What benefits typically come with Medical Officer positions at international organizations like WFP in Malawi?
Benefits usually include comprehensive medical insurance covering dependents, paid annual leave, and pension or provident fund contributions. Field-based roles often provide hardship allowances, accommodation support, and rest and recuperation travel. Specific packages vary by contract type and are detailed during the recruitment process.
How should I apply for a Medical Officer position at WFP in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through the official WFP careers portal or UN job platforms when positions are advertised, submitting a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience. Employers prioritize demonstrated field experience in rural Malawi, familiarity with nutrition programs, and strong relationships with District Health Management Teams. Fluency in English and Chichewa, plus experience working with vulnerable populations, significantly strengthens your application.