DEADLINE: 8TH JULY, 2021
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURE (IITA)
SECTOR: RESEARCH
CONSULTANCY SERVICES
STATES POLICY ANALYSIS
FINANCING AGREEMENT
REFERENCE: IFAD
GRANT NUMBER-2000002865
PROJECT ID NO.: PF-002860

This request for expression of interest follows the general procurement procedures for this project issued under the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) as part of her contributions to Agricultural Transformation in Nigerian federal states and Togolese regions towards achieving Zero Hunger

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is collaborating with AfricaRice to implement the Agricultural transformation in Nigerian federal states and Togolese regions towards achieving Zero Hunger Project, to improve the livelihood of smallholder farmers in Benue, Ogun and Ebonyi States in Nigeria and Kara and Plateau regions in Togo

The goal of the Project is to contribute to the zero hunger initiatives within rice and cassava value chains in Nigeria and Togo. In terms of objectives, there are two focuses given the two-fold nature of the Project that leverages on two pillars: technology and innovation, and policy analysis and policy management of technology uptake.

The Consultancy Study will involve six principal activities for Benue and Ogun States with focus on the cassava value chain:
A. Undertake an identification of country/states policy goals and targets for agricultural transformation, and government intervention plans for realizing the goals
B. Undertake institutional and programs mapping to address the fundamental question of what’s going on where, and by who, on the cassava value chain within Benue and Ogun States
C. Assess policy challenges to identify opportunities and recommend policy options to drive technology uptake in the cassava value chain.
D. Assess progress in achieving Zero Hunger in Benue and Ogun States with focus on Cassava
E. Characterise and map size of production inputs on cassava
F. Develop a strategy document for cassava were not available and a policy brief to influence the existing seed, processing, market and mechanization policy and finally to enhance the participation of farmers in seecs production. processing, mechanization, and market linkages

The consultant will also conduct the following activities:
A. Present the findings of analysis and knowledge materials in suitable formats to multiple stakeholders
A. interpret results of data analysis in the light of current knowledge
B. Produce written documents for multiple audiences and stakeholders, such as analytical papers, reports, reviews and policy briefs
C. Support the dissemination of findings and new evidence to policy makers and programme planners at various levels especially sub-national level as per visibility and communication plan
D. Support Project implementation unit in preparing reader-friendly materials that could be disseminated using multiple channels this could include web and media communications; publications: policy briefs organizing local events and participation in conferences, meetings

Required Qualifications and Expertise
At least PhD degree or equivalent or more of the following disciplines: agriculture science development economics, strategic planning/management, social sciences, or other related fields with proven and demonstrated experience on similar consultancy

Knowledge and Skills

  • Minimum 8 years of international development experience, Inducing work in developing countries
  • Demonstrated experience in formulating social policies, designing and implementing analytical activities
  • Proven ability to write policy briefs, research papers, articles, technical reports and documents in English.
  • Demonstrates professional and interpersonal communications skills suited for donor clients, government and other stakeholders (including data visualization, report writing and presentations).
  • Track record of successful delivery of high-level expert advice to governments and international organizations;
  • Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and have the initiative to work independently to meet deadlines
  • Experience in Using statistical software and relevant analytical tools for both quantitative qualitative analysis.

Competencies:

  • Good communication skills
  • Excellent Analytical skills
  • Ability to work with a multi-cultural environment and team

Timing and duration of assignment
The Consultant is expected to undertake the assignment effective immediate and will work very closely with the Zero Hunger Project Implementation Team and IITA Social Science Team. The duration of the assignment will be 20 working days spread over a 40-day period.

Application Criteria:
Interested consultants should submit detailed technical and financial proposals (not more than 5 pages) covering:
1 Capacity statement
2. Demonstrated understanding of the terms of reference
3. Proposed methodology
4. A detailed work plan
5. A detailed financial proposal

The proposal should be accompanied by the below as annexes:
-Curriculum Vitae
-Two reference letters from recent clients with contact details of the referees.

Applications should be submitted to the ZHI via email: [IITA-ZeroHunger@cglar.org] not later than July 8, 2021 with the subject head clearly specifying the subject matter you are bidding for I.e. Policy Assessment consultancy Nigeria (Benue and Ogun
States)’.IlTA is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and empowers both males and females from all religious and ethnic backgrounds and any other diversity groups. Only selected candidate(s) will be contacted.

Please check our website for more details http://jobs.IITA.org/erecrult