International Water Management Institute (IWMI) a CGIAR Research Center is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for a part-time consultancy assignment under CGIAR initiative on \"Ukama Ustawi: Diversification for Resilient Agribusiness Ecosystems in East and Southern Africat\".
Project Background
The CGIAR Diversification in East and Southern Africa initiative (Ukama Ustawi) aims to support climate-resilient agriculture and livelihoods in 12 countries in East and Southern Africa by helping millions of smallholders intensify, diversify and reduce the risks in maize-based farming through improved extension services, small and medium enterprise development, supporting governance frameworks and increased investment with a gender and social inclusion lens.
Objective of the Assignment
The consultant will work closely with IWMI, ILRI and UU partner organizations to evaluate the potential of innovations, assess their readiness for scaling, and develop effective scaling strategies. The aim is to facilitate the adoption and widespread impact of agricultural innovations, contributing to improved productivity, sustainability, and livelihoods in the region.
Scope of Work
Conduct an initial review and assessment of pre-identified agricultural innovations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including researchers, farmers, and policymakers. Apply the CGIAR IPSR manual to evaluate the scaling readiness of the identified innovations, considering technical feasibility, economic viability, social acceptability, environmental sustainability, and institutional capacity. Facilitate workshops and consultations to engage stakeholders and gather insights on potential scaling pathways, challenges, and opportunities. Support the development of scaling strategies for selected innovation, including recommendations for scaling approaches, partnership opportunities, resource mobilization, and risk management. Provide technical guidance and support to implement the scaling strategies, including monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and impact. Produce a final report summarizing the assessment process, scaling strategies, and key recommendations for scaling agricultural innovations in Southern Africa.Duration: Sixty (60) days during July to December 2023.
Your application must include a copy of your curriculum vitae, a cover letter that addresses IWMI\u2019s requirements stated above, and contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Requirements
An advanced degree in agriculture, rural development, agronomy, agricultural economics, business administration or a related field. Demonstrated expertise and professional experience in scaling agricultural innovations, preferably in the context of Southern Africa. Familiarity with CGIAR or other international agricultural research and development organizations is an advantage. Certification or training in scaling methodologies, innovation management, or related fields would be beneficial. Track record of developing and implementing scaling strategies. Experience in organizing and facilitating workshops, consultations, or participatory processes involving multiple stakeholders. Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Previous work in Southern Africa, particularly in the agricultural sector, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Scaling Readiness framework a plus. In-depth understanding of agricultural innovation systems, scaling processes, and best practices in agricultural development. Proficiency in applying the CGIAR Innovation Portfolio and Scaling Readiness (IPSR) approach or similar scaling frameworks. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess the readiness of innovations for scaling and develop effective scaling strategies. Excellent facilitation and communication skills to engage stakeholders, conduct workshops, and gather inputs from diverse actors. Knowledge of the agricultural context and challenges in Southern Africa, including familiarity with local farming systems, value chains, and policy environments. Ability to work collaboratively and build partnerships with researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.Benefits
IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.