Expertise: WASH
Expertise Group: Engineering
Consultant Source: National
TOR Keywords: WASH
Objective and Purpose of the Assignment
In the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), the healthcare system faces significant challenges in
responding to climate-related health risks. The country ranks 142nd out of 181 countries in climate
adaptation readiness, with projected temperature increases of 2-3°C through 2050, accompanied by
increased rainfall and extreme events. Climate change significantly impacts the prevalence and burden of
malaria, dengue, diarrheal diseases, malnutrition, and noncommunicable diseases, particularly affecting
women and ethnic minorities in climate-vulnerable rural districts.
Three critical gaps constrain the health sector’s response to these climate challenges: (i) limited
workforce capacity in managing climate-related health risks, with healthcare providers lacking training
in climate-sensitive diseases and health facility managers unprepared for climate emergencies; (ii)
insufficient research capacity to evaluate community-based adaptation strategies, leading to a weak
evidence base for policy decisions; and (iii) limited community preparedness, particularly in ethnic
minority areas where language barriers and limited engagement hamper risk communication. These
constraints result in poor healthcare delivery for climate-related illnesses and inadequate evidence-
based adaptation plans.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved the Green Primary Care Project in 2025, which includes a $40
million investment to strengthen climate-resilient primary healthcare in five provinces. However, the
effectiveness of these investments will be limited without addressing the fundamental capacity gaps in
climate-health adaptation. The project provinces—Oudomxai, Louangphabang, Xiangkhouang, Savannakhet and
Champassak—represent 50% of the country’s climate-vulnerable population, with particularly high risks in
14 districts.
The Green Primary Care Project supports climate-resilient primary care in the Lao PDR. However, these
improvements will be constrained by the capacity gaps outlined above. For this reason, ADB is providing
technical assistance to strengthen climate-health adaptation capacity at the community level. The
technical assistance will deploy a team of international and national consultants on climate change and
health, research, health facility management, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
Currently, ADB is searching for a national WASH specialist.
Scope of Work
In collaboration with the International WASH Specialist, the national WASH specialist will support
climateresilient WASH across health facilities and communities, while building local capacity.
S/he will be engaged intermittently initially for 3 person-months for a period of 1 year, and will
regularly travel to project provinces.
Detailed Tasks and/or Expected Output
- Support assessment of WASH infrastructure and practices
- Assist in developing WASH guidelines and protocols
- Help organize and deliver training programs
- Monitor WASH improvements
- Support community engagement activities
- Facilitate stakeholder communication
- Document implementation progress
- Support monitoring and evaluation
- Carry out other responsibilities as agreed with the ADB project officer
Minimum Qualification Requirements
The consultant will preferably have a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, civil engineering,
public health, or related field. At least 7 years of experience in WASH programs, including
infrastructure maintenance and community engagement. Knowledge of climate resilience concepts preferred.
Previous experience working with development partners will be an advantage.
Minimum general experience: 12 years
Minimum specific experience: 7 years in WASH
Language requirements: Fluent Lao and English
Minimum General Experience: 12 Years
Minimum Specific Experience (relevant to assignment): 7 Years
