Save The Children- Request For Proposal For Midterm Evaluation (Protection Children Affected By Armed Conflicts In Sub Saharan Africa (2020 – 2023))

SAVE THE CHILDREN
TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR MIDTERM EVALUATION
PROTECTION CHILDREN AFFECTED BY ARMED CONFLICTS IN SUB SAHARAN AFRICA (2020 – 2023))

(1.0) INTRODUCTION
For 100 years, Save the Children has been making a difference in children’s lives in more than 120 countries. We are the world’s largest independent child rights organization, underpinned by a vision, a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children, and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.

Save the Children is an organization for talented people with different backgrounds and perspectives. We are proud that our people are representative of the children we work with and we thrive on our diversity. We are an equal opportunity organization dedicated to our core values of Accountability, Ambition, Collaboration, Creativity and Integrity. Our culture is embedded in these values, along with a strong commitment to our Child Safeguarding Protocol, ensuring that all representatives of Save the Children demonstrate the highest standards of behaviour towards children both in their private and professional lives.

(1.1) Project Background
Protecting Children Affected by Armed Conflict in sub-Saharan Africa project is a three-year intervention be implemented from 2020 to 2023 under Sweden’s strategy for Regional Development Cooperation for Sub-Saharan Africa 2016-2021. The project succeeds the ‘Integrating Child Protection in the African Peace and Security Architecture’ (ICPAPSA) project which was implemented from 2017 to 2019. The overall goal of this programme being: All children affected by armed conflicts in Sub Saharan Africa are adequately protected from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. In collaboration with a broad range of actors, the programme aims at addressing the complex risks and needs of children affected by armed conflict. While building on global standards, guidelines and expertise, the programme places strong emphasis on localization throughout the objectives. The programme Commitment on Protecting Children in Armed Conflict related activities at a continental level, as well as to Sustainable Development Goal 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.72 and Sustainable Development Goal 5.33.

(1.1.2)  Goal and Objectives:
Programme Goal: All children affected by armed conflicts in Sub Saharan Africa are adequately protected from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Programme purpose: Child Rights and Protection are institutionalized within the African Peace and Security Architecture.

Objectives of the project

• Strengthened capacity for regional actors in Sub-Saharan Africa to prevent, resolve and deal with the effects of armed conflict on children.
• Increased influence and participation by children and young people in processes for peace and reconciliation.
• Strengthened capacity and competence for save the children country offices and partners to engage with armed forces and groups in order to prevent, resolve and deal with the effects of armed conflict on children.
• Strengthened humanitarian capacity and capability in francophone conflict affected countries in WCA, in particular local and national actors, to protect children affected by armed conflict.
• Strengthened role of local humanitarian child protection actors in francophone conflict affected countries in WCA in coordinated service delivery, through increased leadership and influence and access to humanitarian funding
• Strengthened capacity of regional actors in sub-saharan africa to deploy transformative and sustainable policies and actions based on evidence and learning.

(1.1.3) Project target groups and beneficiaries:
The project targets the following strategic actors in order to achieve the goal and specific objectives established

• The au peace and security department is a key stakeholder and interlocutor between the programme and other peace and security organs within the au such as the peace and security council (psc). of particular relevance to the programme, the PSD is tasked with the operationalization of APSA of which the African Standby force is a component, and with the coordination and harmonization of peace and security programmes in Africa including recs and RMs.
• African committee of experts on the rights and welfare of the child (ACERWC) ACERWC is the main target group of the project as its mandate as envisaged in article 42 of the ACRWC is to promote and protect the rights and welfare of the African child and to monitor the implementation of the charter of the African Union.
• Regional Economic Communities, Regional Mechanisms and Regional standby forces: the latter is a significant peace and security stakeholders both in terms of their mandates within their communities and as part of the broader African peace and security architecture. This include the east Africa standby force (EASF) and the Ecowas standby force (EASF)
• Training Centres of Excellence are at the forefront of building capacity for peace support operations. The program will continue to work with TCEs – Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) and the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) to support T/PCC level trainings and also as technical support for monitoring and evaluation of the trainings in mission. We may also engage on relevant issues with e.g. Ecole de Maintien de la paix (emp), the Ethiopia International Peace Support Training Centre (EIPSTC).
• Troop/police contributing countries: the programme will expand focus on a new set of countries amongst the large T/PCCs. For the EASF member states block, we propose to engage military in ethiopia, kenya, Rwanda and introduce Uganda and Rwanda for PSO Police and Correctional services deployments. The focus for Ecowas would be Ghana, Burkina Faso and Nigeria Military.
• Humanitarian partners. The programme will engage with critical humanitarian partners relevant to particular issues, including humanitarian protection, access and promotion of international humanitarian law. This may include the international committee of the red cross (ICRC), Geneva Call, and the Centre of Competence for Humanitarian Negotiations (CCHN).
• Global CPMS working group under the alliance for child protection in humanitarian action. The Alliance for child protection in humanitarian action support the efforts of humanitarian actors to achieve high-quality and effective child protection interventions in both refugee and non-refugee humanitarian contexts.
• Global child protection area of responsibility. to achieve objectives 5, SC will work closely together with the global CP AoR: the global level forum for coordination on child protection in humanitarian settings. The group brings together NGOS, un agencies, academics and others under the shared objective of ensuring more predictable, accountable and effective child protection responses in emergencies.
• The regional child protection working group (CPWG) in the WCA region. To achieve objectives 4 and 5, SC will ensure strong coordination and collaboration with the regional CPWG. This regional coordination structure serves as central coordinating body of all child protection activities in the region. The regional CPWG, led by unicef, provides strategic direction and leadership to ensure that child protection is regarded as priority concern in times of emergencies.
• In-country humanitarian child protection coordination mechanisms. building on strong coordination with the regional CPWG as described under 1.10, save the children will liaise with the in-country humanitarian child protection coordination mechanisms in francophone countries in WCA.

(2.0) Purpose/ Objectives Of The Midterm Evaluation
The overall objective of the midterm evaluation is to conduct an evaluation of the implementation of the program until the end of 2021. this evaluation will i) provide inputs for the implementation of the final stage of the programme; ii) highlight success and challenges in the implementation; iii) state key risks for the programme; and iv) propose a risk mitigation plan. the midterm evaluation will evaluate the project planning and implementation, and compare it with the project baseline, establishing a progressive monitoring of the achievement of the planned outputs and results, through the collection of quantitative and qualitative facts, figures and indicators of the situation at the beginning of the project and in the present moment.

Furthermore, it will provide information on the specific issues and needs of stakeholders in the project area.

(2.1)  The specific objectives of the Midterm Evaluation

• Gather data for the specific objectives and intermediary outcomes in the results framework of the project in terms of indicator or progress markers, both quantitative and qualitative, while making use of the sources of verification listed in the results framework, assessing the situation from the moment of implementation of the project until the end of 2021.
• Investigate if there is room for improvement in relation the baseline indicators and progress markers, and if there are sources of identification that should be added or changed, and if this is the case then make concrete suggestions for improvements. A core area to look into the results framework from a gender perspective and analyse how gender could be better captured and also conflict sensitivity until the end of the programme

Thus, the midterm evaluation will assess progresses and weaknesses of the project based on the baseline study. The midterm evaluation will also inform if the targets were achieved and if there is any changes to be made until the end of the programme. The purpose of the midterm evaluation is to evaluate, review and assess the progress the programme implementation. Also, to assess the effect of Save the Children, through CAAC, in protecting children affected by armed conflicts in Sub Saharan Africa from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. Midterm outcomes and new strategies will be assessed via the evaluation. The midterm evaluation has the potential to change decision making and strategies to be used by Save the Children, project partners and other stakeholders involved in the project.

(3.0)  Scope of the Mid-term evaluation
The consultant/consulting firm with support of the Head of CAAC programme and MEAL and Research Specialist will lead the midterm evaluation assessment process for the programme with the support of the various PCIC program team. It is intended that the midterm evaluation assessment will:

(a) Monitor data and performance evaluation after a period of the project implementation;

(b) Measure the success in completing the targets of the programmes’ of performance Evaluation

(c) Review the log frame and provide necessary recommendations for adaptive programming.

(d) Recommend any aspect of the results framework that needs to be reviewed and updated based on the programme implementation context.

(e) Provide recommendations to enhance the successful implementation of the remaining period of the programme.

(f) Propose a framework for the end of programme evaluation.

The consultant/consultant firm will be required to lead on the following tasks in consultation with the Head of CAAC program; who will regularly liaise with the programmes MEAL and Research Specialist for support.

• Develop a midterm evaluation methodology for the assessment
• Hold meeting with CAAC program team and conduct a desk review of the objectives and targets of the programme, including relevant documents and understanding the project design and contextual framework.
• Design tools/questionnaire and methodology for data collection of both qualitative & quantitative data.
• Carry out data collection (through desk review, interview and stakeholder visit)
• Analyse and synthesize data; and prepare report
• Submit data analysis and draft report for feedback
• Incorporate, compile and submit final report (maximum of 30 pages) along with Midterm evaluation data for the program as a way of measuring performance evaluation;

Save the Children Regional programming Unit and the PCIC team will be responsible for:

• Identifying and contracting the consulting;
• Initial communication and ongoing coordination with the stakeholders;
• Reviewing and approval of data collection tools;
• Assistance in accessing save the children- PCIC documentation and monitoring data;
• Approval of the final report.

(4.0)  Approach and Methodology

• The consultant/consulting firm is expected to lead and coordinate this exercise in close collaboration with save the children PCIC team and relevant stakeholder/ partners involved in the implementation of the project.
• The adopted methodology by the consultant must use processes and methodologies of good technical quality, and systematically use reliable information from multiple source
• That support relevant analysis and correspond to the stated goals and objectives of the programs.
• The study will preferably adopt mixed methodologies based on a mixed qualitative and quantitative descriptive survey design. The consultant/consulsting firm will be responsible for defining and carrying out the overall evaluation approach. The consultant/consulsting firm will be appreciated for using Participatory Tools and Techniques for data collection, which may include but not be limited to, in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussion with PCIC management staff, partners and other stakeholders in the project, which mainly includes CSOs, but also selected informants from AU human and child rights mechanisms as well as the Regional Economic Communities.
• Comprehensive desk review of all relevant documents i.e. review related reports, plans, records, policy documents and various documentation at AU, SADC, ECOWAS and other project targeted stakeholders and beneficiaries. The Consultant/Consulting firm will interact with both Save the Children staff and partners and others potential stakeholders. the evaluation tools and methodology should be reviewed and validated and approved by the PCIC team.

(5.0)  Sources of information
The consultant/consulting firm is expected to use relevant documents, surveys, and interview

KII of the strategic sample of the stakeholders defined by the programme.

(5.1) Proposed stakeholders
Below is a sample list of stakeholders to give an indication on the scope and targeted stakeholders for midterm evaluation.

• Program team ( PCIC)
• Technical advisors- Peace support, CIVMIL, CPiE and Localization, (in Sweden, Senegal, Nairobi)
• AU (PSD, ACERWC and Youth Division)
• Regional Economic Committees – EAC, EASF, ECOWAS-SF, IGAD, Lake Chad Basin Commission(LCBC), International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Multi-National Joint Task Force ( MNJTF), SADC
• Targeted Representatives from Troops Contributing Countries – Ethiopia, Kenya, Burkina Faso, Uganda and Nigeria.
• Training Centres of Excellence -Koffi Annan International Peace Training Centre (KAIPTC) and International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC).

N/B

• Due to the programme scope and spread of various stakeholders across sub- Saharan Africa, some of the interview with stakeholders will be done remotely.
• After reviewing relevant documentation, the consultant in consultation with the Head of CAAC, programmes MEAL and Research Specialist and the program team will come up with a comprehensive analysis of the interview made with the sample of stakeholders.

(6.0)  Key Study Questions
The consultant/consulting firm will use the evaluation criteria to be agreed upon by the PCIC programme team. The study should support the team to answer key questions.

(7.0)  Time frame and budget
The consultancy is for 60 days within October to December 2021. The consultant/consulting firm must ensure that the whole process of the work that includes testing and reviewing of the tools, actual fieldwork, data analysis, dissemination of the key findings to SCI and its partners and reviewing of the final report will be completed within this time frame. The length of the exercise has been extended to accommodate the restrictions and uncertain working environment brought about by Covid-19.

This assignment will be coordinated by the Save the Children PCIC team under the regional programming Unit. The estimated financial proposal/ proposed budget for the baseline study should include:

• Consultancy fees.
• Number of days required to complete the assignment.
• Tax and any other relevant cost related to and required for the proper conducting of the midterm evaluation.

(8.0)  Reporting and Presentation/Expected Deliverables
– Output 1: The consultant /consulting firm will submit a comprehensive midterm evaluation report in both electronic version and signed hard copy. The document should be very precise and address each specific evaluation objectives. The consultant /consulting firm will submit the following:

(1) Inception report on the execution of the assignment within ONE (1) week of the commencement of the consultancy.

(2) Share questionnaire for review before finalizing it.

(3) Draft comprehensive report within the agreed timelines. A report template to be provided by SCI.

-Output 2: The consulting firm/consultant will produce an updated and completed Results Framework with midterm evaluation findings and deliver with final report. This will be done in consultation with PCIC Program team.

-Output 3: The consulting firm/consultant will also deliver a high-quality Power-Point presentation showing the critical midterm evaluation findings, before finalizing the report. Following the validation process, the consulting firm/consultant will be expected to update and submit a final PowerPoint presentation (10 slides) together with the final midterm evaluation report (30 pages maximum), a summary report and All report annexes – TOR, data collection tools, lists of key meetings held, interview database and tools to monitor performance indicator for the programme etc.

(8.0) Expertise and Experience of the consultant
The consultant/consulting firm should consist of at least 2 persons representing the following skills:

• Extensive and advanced evaluation skills and experience in programme monitoring and evaluation in related fields.
• Demonstrated technical expertise, methodology and tools in measuring and evaluating advocacy results\outcomes.
• Very good understanding of main concepts of the project.
• Familiar with participatory and partnership approaches, empowerment of civil society.
• Advanced knowledge of English. Knowledge of French language would be an asset.
• In-depth understanding of child rights monitoring and advocacy at national, regional/sub- regional, international and Pan African levels and previous work in the field of Pan­ African advocacy is an asset.

(8.1)  A team coordinator must be appointed. The team coordinator will be responsible for the whole work and all deliveries; s/he will also act as the contact person with the Head of CAAC programme.

• The suitable person must have a minimum of a Master’s degree in the fields of Social Sciences, International Human Rights, Statistics, Demography, Research Methodologies, Development Studies, Law, Education and any other related fields.
• The person should have a minimum of 8 years prior work experience with a development organization, and has a minimum demonstrable experience of undertaking desk reviews, as well as rapid assessments & or evaluations.
• The consultant should have strong and demonstrable knowledge and experience in the field of gender equality and gender mainstreaming and familiarity with gender analysis tools and methodologies in the specific area of intervention.
• The consultant should have a significant experience of collecting and analysing quantitative data from small scale sample surveys.
• The consultant should mention previous works in regard/ relation to quality assessment/evaluation processes in their proposal and give reference to previous clients.
• Experience of working within a dispersed team, remaining self-motivated, using initiative and responding appropriately to constructive feedback.
• Able to reliably access the Internet, as well as relevant national policy/planning documents and surveys.
• Additional knowledge and experience on networks will be of great importance.

(9.0) Submission of the proposal
The proposals for this midterm evaluation will include two submissions; as electronic files (in Pdf format) delivered in separate files with a heading ‘Midterm Evaluation of the Protecting Children Affected by Armed Conflicts programme’ as follows:

(1) A technical proposal, containing;

• Plan for the midterm evaluation should be conducted
• Review of the proposed data, sources of information and surveys
• The understanding of the TOR, the main goals and tasks of this midterm evaluation and of, the proposed study questions, methodology, team, detailed timetable, and steps for the baseline.

(2) Sample of previous work in similar consultancy work    (assessment/survey/monitoring/ evaluation)

• The CV of the proposed consultants (education background, expertise and experience in relation with the scope of the baseline study and the geographical location); with a description of why experience is relevant to the task and using a matrix indicate how the proposed team complements each other as well as how they correspond to the profile;

(3) A financial proposal based on activities/ requirements of the Consultant.

Completed consultant EOI Form.

(10.0) Child Safeguarding
Throughout the process, compliance with Save the Children Child Safeguarding policy and standards must be assured.

Interested applicants can view and send their applications to esaro.procurement@savethechildren.org

DOWNLOAD ATTACHMENTS
PCIC_CAAC MTE Terms of Reference_2021
PCIC_CAAC MTE Consultant EOI Form_2021