Duration: FARA/StEPPFoS & CEA-FIRST/Adv./Programme Officer/2024

Initial 12 months, renewable for another 24 months Issue Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 Submission Deadline: Tuesday, October 01, 2024

1. The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) is the apex organization coordinating agricultural research for development (AR4D) in Africa. It serves as the technical arm of the African Union and leads initiatives that support agricultural transformation at continental and sub-continental levels. FARA’s mandate is to enhance food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture across Africa. Food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture (FNSSA) are policy priorities for many African countries and are integral to the AU/EU international development agenda. Under the AU-EU High-Level Policy-Dialogue in 2016, a Research and Innovation (R&I) Partnership was established to promote sustainable food systems. Through EU Horizon Europe funding, FARA is implementing two key projects:

• StEPPFoS: Strengthening Policy Analysis and Partnerships for Food Systems.
• CEA-FIRST: Consortium Europe Africa on Research and Innovation for Food Systems Transformation.

Both projects aim to support FNSSA’s roadmap and create enabling environments that integrate R&I with food systems transformation efforts.

FARA is seeking a Programme Officer for Results Measurement and Learning to design and implement a comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) framework for the StePPFoS and CEA-FIRST projects. This role will ensure that project activities align with key performance indicators (KPIs) and track progress to enhance project impact.

2. This request for expression of interest aims at engaging a candidate to carry out the following functions:

• Developing Results Measurement & Learning frameworks for the StePPFoS and CEA-FIRST projects
• Designing and implementing data collection systems and supporting baseline development
• Conducting regular monitoring and data analysis to assess project progress.
• Preparing and submitting periodic reports, including quarterly, mid-term, and final reports
• Providing recommendations to improve project execution.
• Supporting FARA-wide M&E initiatives and contributing to future project proposals

3. If you are passionate about Africa’s agri-food systems transformation, have a good grasp of emerging trends and approaches to results measurement/monitoring and evaluation, a persuasive communicator (both oral and written), a good presenter and a learning mindset, we would like to interact further with you.

4. The ideal candidate should have:

• An advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., M&E, statistics, economics, social sciences); Proven experience in designing and managing M&E systems, preferably in agriculture and research & development settings; Strong analytical and report-writing skills; Familiarity with data analysis tools (SPSS, Excel, STATA, SAS); and Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

5. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their Expression of Interest, including a detailed CV and a cover letter explaining how they meet the requirements.

Please download the Terms of Reference below, for further information on this opportunity.

TOR – Results Measurement Learning Consultant

6. Applications should be submitted electronically to [recruitment@faraafrica.org] and addressed to Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, No 7 Flower Avenue, New Achimota, Mile 7, Accra, Ghana, no later than Tuesday, October 01, 2024, at 16h00 GMT. Tel: +233 302 772823/744888.

7. FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

Executive Director of FARA

The post REOI: Programme Officer, Results Measurement & Learning appeared first on FARA Africa.

Ref: FARA/adv./DVE/2024

Graphics Design and Visualization Expert:  

1  Background

The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) is an umbrella organization bringing together and forming coalitions of major stakeholders in agricultural research and development in Africa. FARA complements the innovative activities of national, international and sub-regional research institutions to deliver more responsive and effective services to its stakeholders. It plays advocacy and coordination roles for agricultural research for development, while the national agricultural research systems (NARS), advanced research institutions (ARIs) and international agricultural research centres (IARCs) develop and promote the adoption of improved technologies and policies along the research-to-development continuum in their respective countries and jurisdictions. Since it was established in 2002, FARA has been able to develop several African-wide initiatives through consultation with stakeholders with recent and ongoing initiatives including the Agriculture Research and Innovation for Africa (ARIFA), the Common Africa Agro Parks (CAAPs), the Soils Initiative for Africa (SIA), the Pan Africa Network of Analysis of Policies (PANAP), the AU-EU International Research Consortium (IRC), the Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development in Africa (KM4AgD), amongst others.  These initiatives are helping shape and transform agriculture in Africa and contributing to the achievement of the targets of the CAADP Malabo 2025 and the SDGs 2030.

The technical delivery of FARA’s work is structured into four Clusters, namely, Innovation to Impact Partnerships and Systems (2IPS), Research Policy and Investments (RPIn) Knowledge Management, Digitalization and Learning (KMDL) and Institutional Capacity & Future Scenarios (ICF). These clusters are also host to several donor funded projects and initiatives.

2  Objectives of the assignment:

This is a long-term assignment to engage an individual as Graphics Designer and Visualization Expert to support the organization to deliver quality knowledge, information and communication products in line with FARA’s value proposition. He/she shall be guided by the FARA branding guidelines and in compliance with relevant graphics design policies and guidelines.

Reporting to the Communication Expert the successful candidate shall be guided by the following terms of reference:

3  Scope of work

• Generating designs from concept stage to final delivery for print, electronic, web-based content and social media.
• Create visually appealing and informative graphics such as charts, graphs, infographics, and dashboards.
• Use design principles to make data easily understandable. This includes design of infoparks (one pagers, trifolds, etc) of FARA’s projects and initiatives.
• Support the designs and layout of publication mechanisms at FARA including Research Reports, Dissemination Notes, Policy Briefs, etc. for publication in the FARA library.
• Design and layout annual reports and other relevant reports
• Work closely with the social media officer to ensure that contents shared are of quality and consistent.
• Layout and design of reports and other information and communication materials (banners, posters, booklets, leaflets, book chapters, calendars, brochures, newsletter, bulletins, flyers, cards) for printing and
• electronic distribution
• Support the required designs and visibility for major FARA events and workshops
• Provide support and troubleshooting for visualization tools and software
• Design visualizations with the FARA end-user in mind, ensuring ease of use and accessibility
• Conduct user testing and gather feedback to improve visualizations using the various FARA channels including Dgroups, social media, websites
• Implement the graphic guidelines in all FARA communication products.

Each assignment shall be accompanied by detailed specifications for each individual assignment to be delivered.

4  Required

The successful individual is required to meet the following criteria:

• Must be a graphic designer with at least 5 years’ experience in designing and layout of information and communication materials
• A degree in graphic design or related field.
• Show a clear and mature style of design, demonstrating an understanding of the communication requirements of FARA.
• Proven experience of graphic production from start to published/printed product with knowledge of printing processes (offset and digital) and colour management.
• Good understanding of new and evolving technologies and digital platforms.
• Additional experience with videography and photography is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in data classification and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Knowledge of graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop)
• Understanding of data analysis techniques and tools (e.g., SQL, Python, R)
• Additional experience in videography and photography

Design Skills

• Strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and typography
• Ability to create clean, engaging, and user-friendly designs

Analytical Skills

• Ability to interpret and analyze complex data sets
• Critical thinking to identify key insights and trends

5  Deliverables

Quality design for various assignments completed in line with FARA communication and branding requirements and within specified deadlines.

6  Duration

The contract will be for an initial year (1) year period with an option to extend to a specified period of time subject to satisfactory performance by the service provider and the continued need for the service.

7  Location

The successful candidates shall be based at the FARA Secretariat in Accra.

8  Applications

Qualified candidates are invited to submit via email comprehensive Curriculum Vitae together with a cover letter and names/contact details of three referees.  The application should include capability statement with brief explanation of the understanding of the assignment describing the qualifications and experience, including copies of catalogue or samples of design work previously done (minimum of 10 samples and links). List of clients that the individual has served in the past.   The application should be sent to:  Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA, PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana, Email: [recruitment@faraafrica.org].

Applications will be assessed against the required skills, experience and aptitudes set out above. Applications will be accepted up to Friday, 19^th July 2024. Due to anticipated high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

9  FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Employment:

There is no discrimination on the basis of gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability or health status.

NB:  Please quote in your application the reference code “DESIGN AND VISUALIZATION EXPERT’ in the subject line.

The post REOI: Graphics Designer and Visualization Expert to support FARA deliver quality knowledge, information and communication products in line with FARA’s value proposition. appeared first on FARA Africa.

Ref: FARA/adv./Communication Consultant/2024

Position: Communication Expert

1        Background

FARA is the continental apex body for agricultural research and innovation in Africa and a technical organisation of the African Union Commission and the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD on matters concerning agricultural research and innovation. Its mission is to contribute to generating high, broad-based and sustainable agricultural growth by catalyzing improvements to the productivity and competiveness of the sector through increased and effective application of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). FARA executes its mission by performing the following functions: (i) advocacy for increased and more effective deployment of STI in agriculture which is a necessary condition for achieving national and continental development goals; (ii) facilitating partnerships among research, innovation and agribusiness actors within Africa as well as between Africa and external regional or national entities to enhance the generation and scaling of technologies; (iii) convening stakeholders; (iv) facilitating the development and implementation of continental initiatives and programmes that respond to the continent’s priorities; (v) strengthening the institutional and systemic capacities for agricultural innovation; and (vi) facilitating the exchange of information, knowledge and learning in STI for agriculture. The Secretariat of FARA is based in Accra, Ghana.

The effectiveness of FARA in executing its mission strongly relies on the communication function. FARA is seeking an innovative, dynamic, multi-skilled and experienced Communication Expert.

2        Purpose

The primary responsibility of the communication expert is to coordinate actions aimed at enhancing understanding of organisation’s mission as well as its impact, visibility and voice by providing technical leadership of the update and implementation of the organization’s communication and visibility strategy.

Reporting in the interim to the Executive Director, the successful candidate shall inter-alia perform the following duties and responsibilities:

3        Duties and Responsibilities

• Strategy update and implementation
  • Conduct an assessment of FARA’s communication needs and use the findings to update its communication, visibility and social media strategy to ensure it responds to FARA’s mission and objectives and includes a clear dissemination, exploitation and communication (DEC) plan.
  • Develop branding guidelines
  • Identify key messaging and communication channels to effectively reach the intended stakeholders.
  • Coordinate the implementation of the DEC plan to ensure consistent and timely delivery of messages.
  • Monitor performance of the communication function and make the necessary adjustments to the communication plan.
• Content Creation, Management and Quality Assurance
  • Create engaging and informative content for various communication channels, including website, social media, newsletters, roller stands, posters, reports and presentations.
  • Conduct research and gather relevant information to develop accurate and compelling content. Translate research and reports into visual materials
  • Contribute to visual and digital communications, including photo gathering and editing, graphic creation and presentation, and other multi-media editing, including video and audio.
  • Serve as editor of FARA’s website and social media channels, providing quality assurance, tone, and consistency of online materials, core messaging, and web-enabled stakeholder engagement.
  • Manage and update corporate (e.g. annual report) and project communication materials, ensuring consistency and adherence to branding guidelines.
  • Oversee quality assurance for all editorial output and content creation of all communication materials of FARA intended for publication.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Building
  • Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, partners, and key stakeholders.
  • Coordinate publicity campaigns for major events convened by FARA. This may include the mobilization and training of social media reporters.
  • Engage with stakeholders to gather feedback, address inquiries, and ensure effective communication flow.
• Any other duties within the scope of communication and media relations as assigned by Management.

4        Education and Experience

• At least a master’s degree in applied communication, journalism, public relations, or related field and experience.
• Proven experience in conducting corporate communication audits/ assessments and crafting communication and branding strategies and plans
• A good knowledge and understanding of African Agricultural development issues.
• A minimum of five years’ experience in a related communications, marketing or journalist role and/or science writing and editing.
• Demonstrable experience of representing an organisation in public or/and media relations, advocacy or marketing campaigns and excellent public-speaking skills.
• Hands-on experience in writing speeches, resolutions, bulletins, reports, scientific papers and presentations. Proven writing and editing skills in English.
• Knowledge and applied work experience in social media, specifically in the design and execution of plans for assuring that online communication and audience engagement tools and channels are fully leveraged. Strong ICT skills are essential.
• Knowledge and experience in the monitoring and evaluation of the communication function.
• Experience with TV/video production, including scriptwriting and/or camera work is an advantage.

5        Languages

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is an advantage.

6        Duration of Assignment

This assignment is for an initial period of one year and is renewable upon availability of funds and effective delivery of outputs.

7        Location of the Assignment

The consultant will work physically from the office of FARA, located at 7 Flower Avenue, Achimota Mile 7, Accra, Ghana.

8        Application

Candidates that meet the requirements are invited to submit via email their comprehensive Curriculum Vitae together with a motivation letter and names/contact details of three referees to:  Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA, PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana.

Email: [recruitment@faraafrica.org] Applications will be accepted up to Friday, 19^th July 2024. Please use the job title and reference in the subject line of your email.

Due to anticipated high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications which do not meet the stated criteria will be rejected.

FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Employment

There is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability or health status.

The post REOI: A Communication Expert to coordinate actions, enhancing understanding of FARA’s mission, impact, visibility and voice. appeared first on FARA Africa.

1. The Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Horticulture is funding a collaborative project in Ghana and Mali involving academia, research institutions and the private sector from the two countries. The collaboration involves the University of Ghana, Université des Sciences, des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako (USTT-B), Food Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Ghana, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD).
2. The overall goal of the project is to increase the production and access to nutrient-dense indigenous fruits and vegetables in Ghana and Mali through diet diversification by valorizing indigenous fruits and vegetables and promoting their consumption. To ensure effective implementation, monitoring and evaluation, the project has been organized into five (5) work packages, which include:

• Work Package 1 – Profiling of four Indigenous fruits and vegetables
• Work package 2 – Value chain analysis
• Work package 3: Improving postharvest handling and preservation of indigenous fruits and vegetables.
• Work Package 4 – Creation of an Innovation Centre or Incubator 
• Work Package 5 – Dissemination of technologies, methods, and processes

      This assignment is with reference to sub-theme 4.

The objective of the incubation program is to establish an incubator/innovation hub for women and youth entrepreneurs and key stakeholders in all 16 regions of Ghana to connect, increase knowledge sharing, and co-create solutions to spur innovations and business opportunities for selected indigenous fruits and vegetables.

To achieve the above, FARA and the University of Ghana propose engaging a suitable firm to support the process.

3. This request for proposals aims at engaging a consulting firm (hereafter referred to as Consultant) to carry out the following functions:

• The Consultant shall liaise with the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for the Horticulture team for the necessary assistance and clarifications to undertake this assignment.
• The consultant shall coordinate activities and engage with all relevant stakeholders to conduct interviews and schedule training using appropriate training materials.
• The Consultant shall present the initial strategy and advise the team on the strategy for the incubation program before the launch of the call for applications.
• The Consultant shall be responsible for the Screening of applications (establishing selection criteria)
• The Consultant shall be responsible for coordinating the development of training manuals for participants (competency-based)
• The Consultant shall recruit trainers and facilitators for the training
• The Consultant shall be responsible for scheduling all training sessions, seminars, workshops and mentorship sessions of pre-selected participants
• The Consultant shall conduct pre and post-training evaluations to assess the impact of the training.
• The Consultant shall provide quarterly monthly reports and timely feedback on the progress of the incubation program and recommend strategies for continuous improvement.
• The Consultant shall be responsible for coaching finalists in managing their enterprises after the award of grants.
• The Consultant shall be responsible for monitoring and Evaluation of the Incubation Program.

Interested firms may obtain further information from the Project Lead, [gessilfie@ug.edu.gh]; [baddoorosalyne@gmail.com] and copy the Procurement Expert, FARA, [cachaab@faraafrica.org] during the following hours: 9h00 to 16h00 GMT.

Please download the Terms of Reference below for further information on this opportunity.

Download TOR

Proposals should be submitted electronically to [recruitment@faraafrica.org] and addressed to Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, No 7 Flower Avenue, New Achimota, Mile 7, Accra, Ghana, no later than Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 16h00 GMT. Tel: +233 302 772823/744888.

FARA-UG Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

Executive Director of FARA

The post REOI: Consulting Firm to Support the establishment of a Postharvest Incubation Program and Agribusiness Accelerator for postharvest management of fruits and vegetables appeared first on FARA Africa.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR AFRICAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION (TAAT) PHASE II

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY OUTREACH (CDTO) COMPACT

FORUM FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH IN AFRICA (FARA)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT SERVICES

SECTOR: Agriculture

CONSULTANCY SERVICES:  Individual Consultant to provide technical support to develop extension materials and messages for the Capacity Development Interventions in selected countries in Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Uganda).

 Grant No.: 2100155041681

Project ID No.: P-Z1-AZ0-0139

______________________________________________________________________

This Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared on the African Development Bank Group’s Internet Website (www.afdb.org) 12^th August 2022.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has received financing from the African Development Bank toward the cost of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and intends to apply part of the agreed amount for this grant to payments under the contract for the Individual Consultant to provide technical support to develop extension materials and messages for the Capacity Development Interventions in selected countries in Eastern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Uganda).  IITA signed a sub-agreement with the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) as an implementing partner for the CDTO Compact.

The assignment is to engage a consultant to identify and map the target audience for each technology in Eastern Africa particularly in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Uganda; to identify and map out dissemination channels to be used to ensure that the technology reaches the target audience; collaborate with TAAT Compacts and Country stakeholders to develop extension materials and messages based on need and preferences of target audiences; and facilitate webinar sessions, validate contents and disseminate packages at relevant conferences. The consultant will work virtually from the place of domicile with virtual linkages to FARA secretariat and physical participation when needed.

The duration of the assignment is 20-man days; the selected consultant will report to the CDTO Compact Coordinator/Leader. The assignment is expected to commence on April 01, 2024.

The selected consultant should possess at least a master’s degree in agriculture, agricultural communications, agribusiness, agricultural extension, knowledge management or a related field. Specialized degrees in technology, engineering, or business can also be valuable. The ideal candidate should possess technical expertise in agricultural technologies, and knowledge management of agricultural development, such as precision farming, automation systems, etc. Knowledge of the latest trends and innovations in the agricultural sector, including sustainable and climate-smart technologies. Prior industry experience working in the agriculture industry is crucial. This can involve working on farms, with agricultural technology companies, extension service delivery or in research and development related to agriculture. Knowledge of the TAAT programme is an added advantage. Familiarity with product development processes, from ideation to prototyping, testing, and final packaging is required including understanding market research and consumer needs to create viable and marketable agricultural technologies. The consultant must show proficiency in business planning, financial analysis, and budgeting, with the ability to create a comprehensive business strategy for launching and marketing agricultural technologies. Knowledge of supply chain management and distribution channels for agricultural products, needed. The selected consultant must have strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey technical information to clients, investors, and stakeholders; and show ability to develop clear and concise product documentation and user manuals and the capacity to identify agricultural challenges and develop innovative solutions using technology, with analytical skills to assess the feasibility and viability of agricultural technology projects. S/he must possess an entrepreneurial mindset which is valuable for managing projects, clients, and resources effectively. The selected consultant must show the capability of building a network within the agricultural and technology sectors that can provide valuable opportunities for collaborations and project partnerships; and the ability to stay updated on the latest agricultural technology developments with cutting-edge solutions is an added advantage. Fluency in both English and French is required.

FARA, now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing these services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services (including their detailed CV and letter of motivation detailing past related experience similar to this assignment.).

Interested consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours (0800-1630hrs).

Eligibility criteria, the establishment of the short-list and the selection procedure shall be in accordance with the African Development Bank’s Procurement Policy for Bank Group Funded Operations, October 2015, which is available on the Bank’s website at https://www.afdb.org/en/projects-and-operations/procurement/new-procurement-policy.

Consultants interested in this call must provide an Expression of Interest no longer than 10 pages, outlining proposed methodologies, references related to the execution of similar assignments, experience in similar areas, or evidence of knowledge and a proposed timeline. Brochures, CVs, and other supplementary materials submitted shall not be accounted for as part of the 10-page limit.

Please download the Terms of Reference below, for further information on this opportunity.

Download

Expressions of interest should be completed and submitted to recruitment@faraafrica.org; and m.a.bakare@cgiar.org on or before 8^th March 2024.

For further information and clarifications ONLY:

Dr. Abdulrazak Ibrahim

TAAT-CDTO Compact Leader,

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana

Telephone: +233596912196; +2347034589199

Email: aibrahim@faraafrica.org;

Mr. Callistus Achaab

Procurement Expert

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

Email: cachaab@faraafrica.org

FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

The post Consultant to provide technical support to develop extension materials and messages for the Capacity Development Interventions in selected countries in Eastern Africa appeared first on FARA Africa.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR AFRICAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION (TAAT) PHASE II

 CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY OUTREACH (CDTO) COMPACT

FORUM FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH IN AFRICA (FARA)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT SERVICES

SECTOR: Agriculture

CONSULTANCY SERVICES: Consultant/Facilitator to support and provide training on Innovation Platforms (IPs) in selected countries

 Grant No.: 2100155041681

Project ID No.: P-Z1-AZ0-0139

______________________________________________________________________

This Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared on the African Development Bank Group’s Internet Website (www.afdb.org) 12^th August 2022.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has received financing from the African Development Bank toward the cost of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and intends to apply part of the agreed amount for this grant to payments under the contract for the Facilitator to support and provide training on IP in the following Countries clustered as follows:

1. Cameroon Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo (Cluster 1)
2. Guinea Bissau, Senegal and Madagascar (Cluster 2)
3. Ghana, Nigeria (Cluster 3)
4. Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and South Sudan (Cluster 4) 

This implies that we will designate a facilitator for each cluster, and the contract will be awarded based on clusters. Hence, potential consultants are requested to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOIs) corresponding to the cluster they are interested in.

IITA signed a sub-agreement with the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) as an implementing partner for the CDTO Compact to support the development and strengthening of Innovation Platforms in beneficiary countries.

The objective of the assignment is to: Support the strengthening of existing TAAT IPs; Support the establishment of new TAAT IPs; Facilitate the training of trainers and training of national stakeholders on IP; Support the development of mechanisms for creating IP networks in beneficiary countries; Support the linkage of the Innovation Platform to FARA IP and Agribusiness network; Support the collection of data and knowledge products around established TAAT IPs for dissemination; Support inclusivity and sustainability plans of the IPs; Report on lessons and experiences from the IPs.

The duration of the assignment is 10-man days; the selected consultant will report to the CDTO Compact Coordinator/Leader. The assignment is expected to commence on April 01, 2024.

The selected consultant should possess: an advanced degree in Agricultural economics, Agricultural Extension, Agronomy, or business management, with at least five years, post qualification experience in business development; Familiar with the TAAT ecosystem and its role in supporting the development and strengthening of Innovation Platforms (IPs) in line with the Africa Emergency Food Production Facility (AEFPF) and Dakar II Goals; Familiar with mechanisms to support and strengthen country IPs; Demonstrate familiarity with commodity compacts and relevant stakeholders within the TAAT ecosystem; Familiar with stakeholder engagement, agricultural revenue generation, and enterprise development; be available to travel to TAAT IPs; Should have demonstrated capacity to engage stakeholders in research and extension to extract information and data for packaging knowledge products; Familiar with FARA’s role in African agricultural research and development and should portray virtues of integrity and confidentiality.

FARA, now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing these services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services (including their detailed CV and letter of motivation detailing past related experience similar to this assignment).

Interested consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours (0800-1630hrs).

Eligibility criteria, the establishment of the short-list and the selection procedure shall be in accordance with the African Development Bank’s Procurement Policy for Bank Group Funded Operations, October 2015, which is available on the Bank’s website at https://www.afdb.org/en/projects-and-operations/procurement/new-procurement-policy.

Consultants interested in this call must provide an Expression of Interest no longer than 10 pages, outlining proposed methodologies, references related to the execution of similar assignments, experience in similar areas, or evidence of knowledge and a proposed timeline. Brochures, CVs, and other supplementary materials submitted shall not be accounted for as part of the 10-page limit.

Please download the Terms of Reference below, for further information on this opportunity.

Download

Expressions of interest should be completed with the cluster name as the heading and submitted at recruitment@faraafrica.org; and m.a.bakare@cgiar.org on or before 8^th March 2024.

 For further information and clarifications ONLY:

 Dr. Abdulrazak Ibrahim

TAAT-CDTO Compact Leader,

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana

Telephone: +233596912196; +2347034589199

Email: aibrahim@faraafrica.org;

Mr. Callistus Achaab

Procurement Expert

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

Email: cachaab@faraafrica.org

FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

The post Consultant/Facilitator to support and provide training on Innovation Platforms (IPs) in selected countries appeared first on FARA Africa.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR AFRICAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION (TAAT) PHASE II

 CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY OUTREACH (CDTO) COMPACT

FORUM FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH IN AFRICA (FARA)

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT SERVICES

SECTOR: Agriculture

CONSULTANCY SERVICES:  Recruitment of Junior Consultant for Technology Transfer & Data Entry to Strengthen TAAT Innovation Platforms

 Grant No.: 2100155041681

Project ID No.: P-Z1-AZ0-0139

______________________________________________________________________

This Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared on the African Development Bank Group’s Internet Website (www.afdb.org) 12^th August 2022.

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has received financing from the African Development Bank toward the cost of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and intends to apply part of the agreed amount for this grant to payments under the contract for the Recruitment of Junior Consultant for Technology Transfer & Data Entry to Strengthen TAAT Innovation Platforms. IITA signed a sub-agreement with the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) as an implementing partner for the CDTO Compact.

The assignment is to engage a Junior Consultant who will be responsible for: (i) Supporting the establishment and strengthening of existing IPs (ii) Supporting training activities in TAATII and TSF countries (iii) Collation of data and information to support TAAT MPRO and FARA MEL (iv) Compile contents for regular updates on TAAT-relevant materials (v) Support training organized for local and international staff, partners, and users on using the web application led by CDTO (vi) Support the upgrade of the user interface and experience of the web application (vii) Support the development and finalization of modules initiated for the MEL & link the same to MPRO and (viii) Participate in exhibitions, dissemination of extension materials and engagement with partners.

The duration of the assignment will be 12 months; the selected consultant will report to the CDTO Compact Coordinator/Leader. The assignment is expected to commence on April 01, 2024.

The selected consultant should possess: at least a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or a related field, with experience in report writing, data collection, and M&E web applications, with extensive practical experience of not less than 2 years of professional experience in database compilation, development and management in similar institutions; Ability to provide accurate, high-quality analysis and documents under pressure; Prior experience working on projects related to agriculture, agribusiness, or rural development; Familiar with FARA’s role in African agricultural research and development and should portray virtues of integrity and confidentiality. Knowledge of TAAT and existing M&E web applications is an added advantage

FARA, now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing these services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services (including their detailed CV and letter of motivation detailing past related experience similar to this assignment).

Interested consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours (0800-1630hrs).

Eligibility criteria, the establishment of the short-list and the selection procedure shall be in accordance with the African Development Bank’s Procurement Policy for Bank Group Funded Operations, October 2015, which is available on the Bank’s website at https://www.afdb.org/en/projects-and-operations/procurement/new-procurement-policy.

Consultants interested in this call must provide an Expression of Interest no longer than 10 pages, outlining proposed methodologies, references related to the execution of similar assignments, experience in similar areas, or evidence of knowledge and a proposed timeline. Brochures, CVs, and other supplementary materials submitted shall not be accounted for as part of the 10-page limit.

Please download the Terms of Reference below, for further information on this opportunity.

Download

Expressions of interest should be completed and submitted at recruitment@faraafrica.org; and m.a.bakare@cgiar.org on or before 8^th March 2024.

For further information and clarifications ONLY:

 Dr. Abdulrazak Ibrahim

TAAT-CDTO Compact Leader,

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana

Telephone: +233596912196; +2347034589199

Email: aibrahim@faraafrica.org;

Mr. Callistus Achaab

Procurement Expert

Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)

Email: cachaab@faraafrica.org

FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

The post Consultant for Technology Transfer & Data Entry to Strengthen TAAT Innovation Platforms appeared first on FARA Africa.

(INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT)

1. The CAADP-XP4 program, involving organizations like AFAAS, ASARECA, CCARDESA, CORAF, and FARA, aims to enhance the development of African agriculture for shared prosperity and improved livelihoods. FARA, as part of this program, seeks to strengthen its capacity and collaborate with stakeholders to support African countries in achieving CAADP and SDGs results. The program focuses on promoting food security, economic development, and climate resilience through effective partnerships and innovation. Over the past two decades, FARA has championed the Agricultural Innovation System (AIS) approach, including the Integrated Agricultural Research for Development (IAR4D) concept and Innovation Platforms (IP). The IAR4D/IP model has demonstrated positive impacts on livelihoods, research demand, and meeting end-user needs. As the agricultural sector undergoes changes, the CAADP-XP4 program introduces an activity to commission regional case studies on effective partnerships for innovation. FARA, in implementing this, plans to collate knowledge on AIS, update continental synthesis studies, support SROs in institutionalizing IAR4D/IP, and document stakeholder experiences on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (MSPs). Recognizing the evolving landscape, the TOR proposes a desk study to assess the continued relevance of the IAR4D-IP approach. This study includes synthesizing existing knowledge on AIS, reviewing the IAR4D-IP model with experts, collecting stakeholder experiences on AIS, and producing a third white paper on the IAR4D/IP model. The goal is to ensure the model’s adaptability to emerging issues in African agriculture, considering factors like food security, climate change, and evolving agricultural trends. The primary objective of this assignment is to engage a consultant to assess and document the effectiveness of the IAR4D/IP partnerships model for innovation to generate insights on the best model to ensure a collaborative effort for innovation in Africa.

2. This request for expression of interest aims to engage a consultant to carry out the following functions:

1. • Desk study: a comprehensive desk review of existing literature, reports, studies, and documents on partnerships, innovation, multistakeholder arrangements for R&D, and other issues on agricultural innovation systems.
   • Surveys, Interviews, Key informant interviews, case studies, etc.
   • Online questionnaire to sampled stakeholders
   • Run a webinar with front-line experts, stakeholders and partners for validation exercise.

3. The Executive Director of FARA invites interested consultants to express interest in carrying out this assignment.

4. Consultants interested in this call must provide an Expression of Interest no longer than 10 pages, outlining proposed methodologies, references related to the execution of similar assignments, experience in similar areas, or evidence of knowledge and a proposed timeline. Brochures, CVs, and other supplementary materials submitted shall not be accounted for as part of the 10-page limit.

5. The anticipated period of performance for this consultancy is 30 man-days spread over three months (March 2024 to May 2024).

6. The individual consultant shall be selected based on procedures defined in the Procurement Guidelines of FARA.

7. Interested consultants may obtain further information from the Ag Director of Research and Innovation, Fatunbi Oluwole [ofatunbi@faraafrica.org], and copy the Procurement Expert, Mr. Callistus Achaab [cachaab@faraafrica.org], during the following hours: 9h00 to 16h00 GMT.

Please download the Terms of Reference below, for further information on this opportunity.

TOR – Engagement of consultant to commission Case studies on Partnership for innovation\

8. Expressions of Interest should be submitted electronically to [recruitment@faraafrica.org] and addressed to Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, No 7 Flower Avenue, New Achimota, Mile 7, Accra, Ghana, no later than Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 16h00 GMT. Tel: +233 302 772823/744888.

9. FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender, race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

Executive Director of FARA

The post REOI: Individual Consultancy Services to Commission Regional Case Studies on Effective Partnerships for Innovation appeared first on FARA Africa.

1. FARA serves as the technical arm of the African Union Commission on matters concerning agriculture science, technology and innovation. FARA mobilizes a wide spectrum of stakeholders around a portfolio of continent-wide programmes and projects that are co-developed and implemented with the stakeholders. It currently coordinates twelve (12) programmes and projects that, taken together, contribute towards the CAADP goal of increasing agricultural productivity in Africa.

The deployment of relevant information technology is an integral part of FARA’s operational effectiveness, this is further enhanced through the deployment of the Human Resources Information System (HRIS).

FARA continues to embrace the digital revolution, and its increasing reliance on Information Technology tools to perform its functions. A human resource information solution is essential to provide a one-stop shop for workforce data and streamline all relevant employee details and assist in the analyses of data. FARA, therefore, intends to deploy a contemporary human resource solution to assist in the attainment of its objectives.

Currently, FARA has approximately 28 employees and this number is expected to grow as new funding opportunities emerge. FARA would require a web-based software service to access HRIS modules, customized as per our requirements and needs.

To achieve the foregoing; FARA proposes to engage a suitable consulting firm to carry out this assignment with the needed professionalism and ethics.

2. The purpose of the assignment is to deploy a human resource information system to provide improved and timely HR informatfaion, increase the efficiency of HR processes, enhance data security and confidentiality, enhance the ability to track and report on human resource metrics, and meet the key deliverables as outlined in the Terms of Reference (see link to TOR in section 7 below).
3. The Executive Director of FARA invites interested consultants to express interest in carrying out this assignment.
4. Consultants interested in this call must provide an Expression of Interest no longer than 10 pages, outlining references related to the execution of similar assignments, experience in similar areas, or evidence of knowledge and availability of qualified staff etc. Brochures, CVs, and other supplementary materials submitted shall not be accounted for as part of the 10-page limit. Expression of Interest must also include copies of the following Mandatory documents: Business Registration Certificates and Valid Tax Clearance Certificates.
5. The anticipated period of performance for this consultancy is 8 weeks after the signing of the contract (1^st November 2023 to 31^st December 2023).
6. The consulting firm shall be selected based on Quality Cost Based Selection (QCBS) procedures defined in the Procurement Guidelines of FARA.
7. From among those who have been considered eligible bidders, a shortlist of at most six (6) proponents scoring 75% or above shall be drawn up. The general criteria for shortlisting are:

8. Interested consultants may obtain further information from FARA’s Human Resource Officer, Courage Nunya Dzormeku [cdzormeku@faraafrica.org], and copy the Procurement Expert, Mr. Callistus Achaab [cachaab@faraafrica.org], during the following hours: 9h00 to 16h00 GMT.

Please download the Terms of Reference for further information on this opportunity below:.

TOR Download

9. Expressions of Interest should be submitted electronically to [recruitment@faraafrica.org] and addressed to Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director of FARA, No 7 Flower Avenue, New Achimota, Mile 7, Accra, Ghana, no later than Thursday, 10^th August 2023, at 14h00 GMT. Tel: +233 302 772823/744888.
10. FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Recruitment: there is no discrimination based on gender race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability, or health status.

Executive Director of FARA

The post Request For Expression Of Interest appeared first on FARA Africa.

FARA serves as one of the Implementing centres of the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) project supported by the African Development Bank.

The Secretariat further serves as the Coordination Unit of the Strengthening Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Ecosystem for Inclusive Rural Transformation and Livelihoods in Eastern Africa (AIRTEA) Project and many others.

Within the context of the AfDB-funded Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) and the African Emergency Food Production Facility (AEFPF), FARA has been mandated to serve as the Capacity Development Technology Outreach (CDTO) compact. Under the second phase of TAAT, the CDTO aims to strengthen capacities and facilitate outreach and scaling of nutritious climate-resilient agricultural technologies and good practices, through technical support along targeted TAAT value chains for increased agricultural productivity, access to quality seeds, GAP, household incomes and job creation supporting Regional Member Countries (RMCs). Additionally, the CDTO supports the implementation of the Transition Support Facility (TSF) of the AfDB.

To coordinate the activities driven by FARA in its programmes and projects, the organization is seeking to hire an Expert in Agribusiness.

Reporting to the Senior Technical Cluster Leader/Innovation Systems Specialist, the successful candidate shall inter-alia perform the following roles and responsibilities:

1. Technical Oversight and Support:
   • Provide technical oversight and act as a technical resource for integrating gender and social inclusion approaches into all FARA projects.

• • Provide support and oversight to the development of key project deliverables in addition to ensuring ongoing implementation, incorporating gender-sensitive and transformative approaches in line with FARA policies.
  • Promote the development and operationalization of the agribusiness, gender, and youth engagement strategy.

       2.   Identify learning needs and build the capacity of Stakeholders and staff.

• • Lead research efforts to design innovative, high-quality approaches for gender integration into African agricultural systems.
  • Analyze the status quo and convert knowledge to solutions to real-life issues on youth, gender, and agribusiness.
  • Contribute to high-level knowledge products for diverse audiences, including reports, white papers, and other outputs, such as learning briefs and reader-friendly blogs.
  • Carry out training activities on new models and methods for effective youth engagement in African agriculture.
  • Develop, promote and train African agricultural stakeholders on innovative agribusiness models to ensure the profitability of farming.
  • Collaborate with Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) staff to develop learning questions, indicators, and other resources to ensure FARA program evaluation integrates gender and social inclusion

     3.      New business and projects

• • Provide technical guidance and support to proposal development in agribusiness, youth, gender, and social inclusion as a subject matter expert.
  • Review the technical contributions of consultants or take on the role of lead writer, where
  • Identify and meet with other organizations/donors to discover potential funding or partnership opportunities.
  • As a cross-cutting function, you will undertake the implementation of agribusiness, youths, gender, and social exclusion functions in all FARA projects, including external partnerships and alliances.

    4.      External Outreach

• • Strategically promote FARA’s image as a learning organization with technical strengths in agribusiness, youth, gender equality, women’s economic empowerment, and inclusive agriculture and market systems.
  • Foster good relationships with industry partners and individuals and participate in international and domestic meetings, workshops, and conferences.

5. Any other duties as required by the Director of Research and Innovation and Management

Required

• A Master’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, agricultural economics, or a related field is required.
• At least eight (8) years of professional work experience in agribusiness development with an emphasis on value chain development, rural finance, and regional/international trade policy.
• Solid experience in gender mainstreaming and youth programmes.
• Knowledge of supply and value chains of agribusiness within Africa.
• Demonstrated practical knowledge of regional agribusiness firms.
• Experience working in an International organization or in a not-for-profit agribusiness.
• Demonstrated experience with gender mainstreaming in agriculture projects.
• Experience leading and building the capacity of teams of agriculture-focused; including remote, field-based personnel. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including demonstrated ICT skills.

Compensation

FARA offers a competitive salary and benefits in accordance with position and scale.

Location

The position is based at the FARA secretariat in Accra, Ghana.

Applications

Qualified candidates are invited to submit via email a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae together with a cover letter and names/contact details of three referees to Dr Yemi Akinbamijo, Executive Director, FARA, PMB CT 173, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana. Email: recruitment@faraafrica.org

Applications will be assessed against the required skills, experience, and aptitudes set out above. Applications will be accepted up to 20th March 2023.

Due to the anticipated high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

FARA Affirmative Action Statement on Employment: there is no discrimination on the basis of gender, race, religion, ethnic orientation, disability or health status.

NB: Please quote in your application the reference code of the vacancy for which you are applying.

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