CFND/International Consultant

Result of ServiceThe production of one study on Blue Economy regional economic integration and fish value chain in East Africa including a transboundary blue economy regional integration pilot case recommendation and a capacity-building workshop to present results to relevant East African stakeholders Work LocationHome-based Expected duration4 months Duties and Responsibilities1. Background and justification The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is committed to supporting the sustainable socio-economic development of its Member States, with a particular focus on unlocking the potential of blue economy in Africa. Recognized as Africa’s “new frontier of renaissance,” the blue economy is reflected as a priority in continental frameworks such as the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063 and its Africa Blue Economy Strategy, with experts predicting that the African Blue economy could grow up to $576 billion by 2063. A key component of UNECA’s support to Africa's blue economy is the Great Blue Wall Initiative, launched in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in October 2021. This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of the blue economy in East Africa through ambitious goals, including expanding marine protected areas from 8% in 2021 to 30% by 2030, restoring 2 million hectares of blue ecosystems, sequestering 100 million tons of CO2, creating 1 million blue jobs, and providing sustainable livelihoods for 70 million people by 2030. As a key player in promoting sustainable blue economies, the French Development Agency (Agence francaise de developpement – AFD) is the official funding partner for this project. Since 2008, AFD has mobilized over €6 billion in ocean-related financing, emphasizing balancing human activities with the health of marine ecosystems by focusing not only on minimizing negative impacts but increasingly on generating positive outcomes, for the climate, biodiversity and the communities depending on the ocean. To enhance the impact of UNECA and AFD’s efforts, pilot studies are further needed to provide reliable, consolidated data that supports sustainable investments and development aligned with SDG14 in Africa. This research project, titled \"The Great Blue Wall: Unleashing the Potential of Qualitative Blue Socio-Economic Development on Africa’s Eastern Coast,\" will build upon AFD endeavors and UNECA’s ongoing initiatives, including the Great Blue Wall, the Blue Economy Valuation Toolkit (BEVTK), the support to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation, and the work led in developing sustainable regional value chains. The project will focus on analyzing megatrends related to the development of transboundary and integrated economic zones, with an emphasis on blue economy sectors. One of the primary areas of focus of the study will be the AfCFTA, which offers a unique opportunity to promote regional integration, stimulate sustainable blue economy value chains, and reduce both environmental and social vulnerabilities. However, Eastern Africa faces significant challenges in achieving effective regional integration. Barriers such as restrictive trade policies, limited labor mobility, inadequate infrastructure, and high transport costs hinder seamless business operations across borders. Additionally, bureaucratic hurdles related to licensing and permitting, along with information gaps that deter private sector investment, compound these difficulties. Political instability and uncertainty surrounding long-term government commitments further complicate regional cooperation and the realization of economic integration goals. This study will focus on the fish trade sector, a key driver of Eastern Africa’s economy, regional integration, and social resilience. To realize its full potential, the study will address some of the challenges hindering regional fish value chains such as illegal fishing, post-harvest losses, and supply chain inefficiencies. It will explore ways to improve infrastructure, promote inclusivity—particularly for women—and enhance compliance with regional regulations. Strengthening markets, improving certification and sanitary processing, and diversifying fish products will also be examined to support sustainable growth and boost the region’s competitiveness within the blue economy. Overall, the objective of the study will be to identify the challenges and enablers that need to be addressed to accelerate the path toward unlocking the potential for a regional qualitative socio-economic development of the blue economy along the East Coast of Africa. 2. Objective of the consultancy Overall objective The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the challenges and enablers of East Africa’s Blue Economy, with an emphasis on regional integration, including the AfCFTA implementation, and value chains. The study is expected to include an in-depth analysis of the role of transboundary regional economic zones in fostering Blue Economy sectors, particularly as regards the regional fish value chain. Specific objectives The specific objectives of are: (i) Based on the already existing work developed by ECA and AFD, analyze existing Blue Economy policies, strategies, and frameworks in East Africa, and identify key opportunities and areas for improvement that can promote regional integration and the development of sustainable value chains within the Blue Economy. (ii) Identify and analyze the challenges hindering regional economic integration in East Africa in the specific context of blue economy sectors (including fisheries), covering inter alia trade policies, infrastructure gaps, labor mobility constraints, and political considerations. Propose actionable solutions to enhance cross-border cooperation and investment in the Blue Economy. (iii) Examine the role and key features of transboundary regional economic zones in enhancing the Blue Economy, focusing on governance structures, policy frameworks, and their potential to accelerate industrialization, attract foreign direct investment (FDI), to support Blue Economy sectoral development within the region with strong socio-economic benefits for the populations. Identify best practices and lessons from successful global models of integrated economic zones that can be adapted to the East African context to encourage regional cooperation, inclusive growth, and sustainable Blue Economy sector development. (iv) Evaluate the opportunities and challenges posed by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in fostering sustainable fish trade in East Africa. Propose strategies to improve interstate fish trade, address imbalances, enhance regional market access, and support the development of regional fish value chains. Recommend sustainable growth actions and explore how these value chains can promote employment opportunities, particularly for women and youth. (v) Provide practical recommendations to strengthen regional cooperation and integration in the Blue Economy. Focus on leveraging transboundary economic zones, regional value chains, and AfCFTA opportunities to foster socio-economic inclusivity and sustainability. (vi) Evaluate the socio-economic impacts and sustainability of proposed Blue Economy initiatives and regional value chains, ensuring that recommendations promote equitable and inclusive growth, empower women and youth, create employment, preserve ecosystems’ biodiversity, and align with long-term sustainable development goals. (vii) Propose and design pilot initiatives within specific countries of East Africa to demonstrate innovative models for improving regional integration and advancing the Blue Economy, particularly focusing on the fish value chain. Ensure the pilot projects promote socio-economic inclusion and environmental sustainability. (viii) Organize and facilitate a capacity-building workshop to present the findings and conclusions of the study. Engage key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, and local communities, in discussions on the study’s implications and practical actions for promoting regional integration and sustainable Blue Economy development. 3. Scope of consultancy The study is intended to focus on Blue Economy in its integrity, which in the context of Africa includes activities related to oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, wetlands and all other forms of aquatic bodies. While a specific focus will be dedicated to fisheries, other key sectors of the blue economy, such as maritime transport, coastal tourism, renewable ocean energy, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, and ecosystem services, should also be considered to foster a comprehensive understanding and development of sustainable blue economy activities. The countries under focus for this study are the countries located primarily in East Africa as well as the countries part of the Great Blue Wall Initiative, which include Burundi, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Based on the findings of the consultant, countries identified with the greatest potential for Blue Economy development and regional integration can be prioritized in the findings of the study. 4. Duties and responsibilities The consultant will work under the supervision of the chief of the Natural Resources and Green and Blue Economy Section, and under the overall guidance of the director of the Climate Change, Food Security and Natural Resources Division (CFND). The consultant will also collaborate with the ECA team from the Subregional Office for Eastern Africa (SRO-EA) and the Regional Integration and Trade Division (RITD). To ensure close monitoring and effective coordination throughout the project, a steering committee comprising staff members from CFND, RITD and the project’s donor Agence Francaise de Developpement (AFD) will be established. This committee will oversee progress, provide strategic direction, and ensure alignment with key objectives. The consultant will also be expected to work closely with other consultants responsible for conducting complementary studies, as well as East Africa member states, experts from other UN agencies, and development partners. All the written outputs shall be prepared in English. All outputs prepared should contain page numbering, list of acronyms, a table of contents, footnotes, references, relevant annexes and appendices. All work submitted must be the original work of the consultant and contain proper citation and recognition of reference documents and data sources. ECA and AFD will retain exclusive ownership of the outputs of the assignment. 5. Results of service The consultant will be expected to: (i) Prepare a comprehensive research plan • Develop and submit a detailed research plan outlining the scope of work, key research objectives, and the detailed timeframe for conducting the study. • Specify the methodology for analyzing transboundary economic zones and regional fish value chains in East Africa, including a detailed description of how the study will assess the status, challenges and potential for growth. • Clearly define the chosen approach for data collection, including both qualitative and quantitative methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, field visits, etc.) and the data collection tools to be used, such as validated questionnaires and surveys. • Identify and outline the key stakeholders to be consulted during the research, including government agencies, private sector representatives, local communities, and regional organizations, as well as strategies for ensuring the reliability and relevance of the data to be collected. • Present an initial plan for the field visit, focusing on engagement with key stakeholders in East Africa and gathering context-specific data, strengthen local understanding, and provide practical insights for the study, ensuring the findings are grounded in local conditions. (ii) Conduct consultations and interviews with a wide range of regional stakeholders • Conduct in-depth consultations and interviews with the aim of collecting data and inputs from national and regional stakeholders, including government officials, national agencies, private sector representatives (e.g., SEZ and EZ representatives), regional bodies (e.g., East African Community, AfCFTA Secretariat), local communities, policy makers, industry leaders, academics and experts in East Africa’s Blue Economy and regional trade. • Ensure the inclusion of diverse perspectives, particularly from vulnerable groups, to capture a well-rounded understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and dynamics within the Blue Economy and regional trade integration. (iii) Plan and execute a field study trip in selected East African countries • Organize a field study trip to selected East African countries to collect first-hand data on transboundary economic zones and regional fish trade dynamics. During the field trip, gather both qualitative data (e.g., governance structures, socio-economic impacts, and best practices) and quantitative data (e.g., fish trade volumes) to support the analysis of regional economic integration and Blue Economy development. (iv) Analyze data and present initial results • Analyze the collected data to identify key insights and trends related to transboundary economic zones, regional integration, and the fish value chain, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative aspects. • Present the initial analysis to the steering committee of this study in a preliminary presentation, highlighting key findings and engaging in discussions to validate and refine the results. • Incorporate stakeholder feedback to further enhance the data analysis, ensuring the findings are accurate, actionable, and relevant to policy formulation and regional development strategies. (v) Produce one report on Blue Economy regional economic integration and fish value chain in East Africa • Based on the analysis of both primary and secondary data, draft a comprehensive report that covers the following two key areas: o East Africa regional economic integration for Blue Economy sectors growth: Analyze how transboundary economic zones can foster Blue Economy development in East Africa by examining governance models, policy frameworks, and industrialization pathways. The focus should also include the means necessary to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and ensure socio-economic benefits for marginalized communities. This analysis should also address the current challenges faced by the region and identify opportunities to develop integrated economic zones tailored to the Blue Economy, by proposing models suited to Africa’s context, highlighting key drivers that can accelerate sustainable Blue Economy growth, while promoting regional integration and inclusive development. o Opportunities within the AfCFTA for fish trade in East Africa: Provide a thorough evaluation of the opportunities and challenges for fish trade under the AfCFTA, identifying strategies to improve regional market access, addressing trade imbalances, enhancing the fish value chain for sustainable development, while ensuring gender and youth empowerment. • The report will deliver actionable recommendations for regional cooperation, emphasizing socio-economic inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment of women and youth to: o Support the development of integrated economic zones focused on the Blue Economy sectors, particularly in transboundary regions. o Provide a roadmap for enhancing fish trade within East Africa, leveraging AfCFTA to reduce trade barriers and stimulate growth in the fish value chain. o Propose practical solutions to establish sustainable and inclusive trade practices. o Recommend governance and regulatory frameworks that facilitate sustainable Blue Economy growth and ensure the equitable participation of all stakeholders, particularly women and youth. (vi) Prepare a transboundary regional economic integration pilot case recommendation • Develop a pilot case recommendation for implementing a transboundary regional economic integration initiative focused on Blue Economy sectors in at least two East African countries. • This recommendation will highlight innovative solutions or models that can promote regional integration, enhance trade flows, and support the sustainable development of Blue Economy sectors, such as fisheries, marine resource management, and coastal economies. • Account for socio-economic impacts, with a focus on the empowerment of marginalized groups (e.g., women and youth), and ensure environmental sustainability is integrated into the model, promoting long-term, inclusive growth in the region. (vii) Organize a capacity building workshop to present the study’s findings and key recommendations • Organize and facilitate a capacity-building workshop with relevant stakeholders to present the final findings and recommendations from the research. • Present the final report and the pilot case recommendation during the workshop. • Engage stakeholders in discussions on the implications of the findings and recommendations and provide guidance on practical actions to strengthen regional cooperation and sustainable Blue Economy development. • Collect feedback during the workshop and integrate this into the final report to ensure it is aligned with stakeholder expectations and actionable for future policy development. Qualifications/special skills• Advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in the field of international trade, regional integration, value chain development, environmental economics, international development or a related field from a recognized university/institution. Alternatively, a university degree related to fisheries or other blue economy sectors could be considered. • At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in the fields of economics, international trade, regional integration, and value chain development, or related experience gained through research and advisory services at the national, regional, and/or international levels is required. • At least 5 years of relevant experience in developing blue economy strategies and policies that promote investment in regenerative blue economy models with an emphasis on fostering environmental and economic resilience, as well as restoring and conserving marine and coastal seascapes for long-term ecological health, productivity and socio-economic benefits, is desirable. • Solid understanding of strategies and policies related to regional integration, with extensive expertise in the African economic landscape, particularly in Eastern Africa. This includes a deep knowledge of regional trade policies, their application within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, and the broader implications of AfCFTA for regional economic growth, trade, and sustainability. • Demonstrated understanding of nature-based development opportunities and challenges, particularly within the Eastern Africa context, with a clear understanding of how these opportunities intersect with regional economic development. • Experience with the fisheries value chain is highly desirable, including knowledge of sustainable fisheries management, value-added processing, and trade-related dynamics in the blue economy. • Proven ability to design and conduct rigorous academic and applied studies in international trade, regional economic integration, and value chain development, demonstrating strong methodological and analytical skills. • Experience in conducting interviews and gathering qualitative data in multicultural and diverse settings, ideally in East African contexts, ensuring an inclusive approach to stakeholder engagement and data collection that reflects varied perspectives and contexts. • Strong capacity for collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing quantitative data to inform decision-making, with a focus on turning complex data into actionable insights that drive strategic recommendations. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to synthesize complex findings from data collection and analysis into clear, concise reports and strategic recommendations for diverse stakeholders. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this assignment, full proficiency in English is required, while professional knowledge of any East African language, such as Swahili, will be considered an asset. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.