AU-IBAR, with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), is implementing a project on “Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy”, for three year’s period. The overall objective of the project is to enhance the policy environment, regulatory frameworks and institutional capacities of AU member states and regional economic communities to sustainably... utilize and conserve aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems.

The specific objectives of the project are as follows:

Ratify and/or align relevant international/regional instruments related to blue economy themes (with specific reference to protecting and conserving biodiversity)
Optimizing conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity while minimizing conflicts among blue economy sub-themes
Strengthening measures for mitigating the negative impacts of coastal and marine tourism, oil, gas, deep sea mining and climate change on aquatic biodiversity and environment
Strengthening gender inclusivity in aquatic biodiversity conservation and environmental management

For the implementation of this project, AU-IBAR seeks the services of a Planning and Monitoring Officer, for a short term consultancy’ to support the implementation of activities relating mainly to project planning and monitoring for sustainable exploitation and conservation of aquatic biodiversity in African blue economy.
Objective of the Consultancy

The main objective of this consultancy is to support the ‘Conservation of Aquatic Biodiversity and Ecosystems in the Context of the African Blue Economy’ Project by strengthening its planning, monitoring and evaluation systems and practices and generate evidence-based feedback for delivery of project deliverables.

Job Description Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Project Team leader at AU-IBAR, the incumbent will undertake the following targeted areas of work so as to achieve the objectives of the Project "Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy":

Participate in the design, implementation and periodic reviews of project management processes and tools for strategy development, operational planning and budgeting, and results monitoring and reporting;
Provide technical support relating to the implementation of the project, particularly, supporting the project team to achieve strategic alignment with project objectives, by promoting Results-Based Management approach to project planning, management and monitoring of the project through the development of operational annual plans and performance indicators and targets grounded in the overall project work plan;
Undertake monitoring missions to track progress of project implementation and generate evidence-based monitoring reports against performance targets of the project to advice the project team on realization of planned deliverables;
Design and propose process improvements based on innovative techniques and best practices to ensure that activities pertaining to the annual planning and reporting cycle are implemented as per the project annual work plan;
Coordinate the preparation of regular Monthly, Trimester, Semi-Annual and Annual Reports on annual planning and budgeting, and results monitoring and reporting within prescribed timelines for communication with relevant stakeholders;
Coordinate the development of the project exit strategy;
Perform any other duties assigned by the Project Team Leader and / or the Director, AU-IBAR.

Academic Requirements

The incumbent should have an advanced University degree in Strategic Management, Project Planning and Management or related fields. An academic degree and relevant experiences in the field of Animal Resource and their ecosystems such as Fisheries and Aquaculture, Environmental Science, Agriculture and Veterinary would be an added advantage.

General Experience

At least 7 years of continuous working experience at senior and advisory positions in Results-Based Management (project planning, monitoring, reporting and evaluation) environment
Evidence of familiarization of functions of Regional Economic Communities, specialized regional institutions and AU Member States in implementation of blue economy related disciplines
In-depth experience of working within the multi-partner environment at continental, regional and national levels.

Specific Experience

Working knowledge and evidence of understanding and experience of African Union project planning, monitoring and reporting processes and tools, including the planning cycle;
An in-depth working knowledge with the African Monitoring and Evaluation Reporting Tool (AMERT) to develop work plans and budgets, and reports;
Familiarity with African Union Agenda 2063; and the Africa Blue Economy Strategy themes and their linkage to aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems;
Record of experience of formulation of frameworks, guidelines and strategies related to blue economy themes, including aquatic biodiversity and environmental conservation;
Proven experience and track record of working with project staff to develop work plans and budgets, reporting tools, and results-based reports.

Required Skills

Diplomacy and good interactive skills necessary for dealing with senior officials in Government, Regional Organizations, and donor/development organizations in Africa;
Good networking skills and ability to maintain positive and constructive dialogue and relationships with key institutions operating in the regions;
Organizational and inter-personal skills, and ability to work in a multi-cultural team environment
Very strong writing, analytical and communication skills are necessary.
Demonstrated ability to provide strong leadership and foster team environment is required
Ability to work under pressure and according to tight deadlines
Essential computer skills in particular competency in the use of basic Windows MS Office programs (Word, Excel, Power Point)
Proficiency and / or working knowledge of at least two AU languages (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Kiswahili)

Deliverables

Project annual work plans and budgets
Project quarterly calendar of missions and meetings
Monthly, Trimester, Semi-Annual and Annual Reports on project implementation progress
Field monitoring reports
Project Exit Strategy
Monthly report of works performed more

Objectives

Under the direct supervision of the APMD Platform Coordinator at AU-IBAR, the Administrative Assistant” will work across the platform multi-functional team to support the successful implementation and operationalization of the Platform.

Main Functions

Project administrative and logistics
Documentation and recording
Stakeholder engagement
Effective communication for knowledge... sharing

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate and support cross-functional project teams, providing necessary administrative and logistical support to ensure project activities are effectively executed.
Organize, coordinate and manage the project team’s calendar of activities
Travel and conference arrangements: organise hotel and travel bookings; prepare requisite travel documents for meeting attendees (internal & external); in collaboration with the Finance team, prepare budgets for workshops and meetings; support the organisation and execution of meetings, workshops and conferences whether virtual or in-person.
Execute key administrative tasks, such as document management, preparation of correspondence, management of stakeholder’s data, scheduling, logistics coordination, support to preparation of technical documents, meeting reports/ minutes, presentations, tables, lists, statistics and diagrams etc.
Support day to day operational needs related to stakeholder communication, engagement, and partnership building including supporting the dissemination of relevant documents and materials in accordance with a specific assigned task.
Assist the knowledge Management expert /officer in the preparation, sharing and dissemination of information and messaging related to pastoral sector marketing
Assist with the financial tracking, and record keeping on the project expenditure.
Filing and archives: maintaining accurate and tidy files, electronic filing and archiving system and filing indexes.
Monitoring completeness and timelines of documentation and inputs for the development of reports.
Follow-up on progress of studies, outsourced to consultants for timely delivery.
Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Key Deliverables

Provision of administrative and logistical support to cross-functional project teams.
Organized travel and accommodation arrangements for project-related activities, including meetings, workshops, and conferences.
Effective provision of operational support for stakeholder engagement, including but not limited to meeting coordination and execution, stakeholder outreach, stakeholder communication, etc.
Accounts of stakeholders convenings and communication such as meetings, workshops, and events organized, including attendee lists, agendas, and outcomes are well maintained.
An organized digital and physical filing system maintained including correspondence, stakeholder database, records or copies of project reports and outputs, capacity building materials and programs, and copies of procurement processes retained.
Documentation of regular technical / financial / procurement / capacity building documents and reports outlining the execution of project activities, timelines, budget expenditure and responsible parties.
Documentation of marketing strategies and materials related to pastoral sector.

Duration

The duration of this consultancy is Six (6) months, which may be renewed subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds.

Location

The Consultancy will be based in AU-IBAR offices in Nairobi, Kenya and will be required to maintain the AUC office hours.

Remuneration

The remuneration for this Consultancy shall be an all-inclusive monthly fee equivalent to GSA-5 on the AUC Salary Scale and shall not exceed US$ 1,888 per month.
The expert will be responsible for his/her medical and travel insurance cover for the duration of the consultancy. Expenses for travel on official missions will be covered separately by AU-IBAR in accordance with the applicable African Union Commission rules and regulations.

Supervision

The Consultant will work under the technical supervision of the project coordinator and the administrative supervision of the Senior Human Resources and Administration Officer in AU-IBAR.

Requirements
Qualifications

The successful applicant should have a minimum of a first level university degree in administration, social science or gender studies or a related field.

General Experience

At least two (3) years cumulative experience performing administrative or related functions in an international organization or multi-cultural environment.
Minimum three (3) years’ experience working in international organization or multinational firm with operation and projects implemented in multiple countries.
Experience in taking minutes and preparation of meeting reports.
Post-qualification working experience, including internship or consultancy in reputable African organization / firm or related functions (administrative services), as well as performing human resource related functions.

Specific Experience

Minimum of Three (3) years of progressive work experience in project administration, for donor funded projects in multiple-national organization. Priority will be accorded to applicants who have demonstrated experience in projects that incorporate gender dynamics and/or marketing activities.
Previous experience in supporting project/program operation and implementation. Priority will be accorded to applicants with experience in project / programs supporting agriculture / livestock or pastoral sector.
Demonstrable experience in planning technical workshops and meetings involving stakeholders at continental, regional, and national levels in Africa.
Experience in conducting inventories, filling and documentation of activities / reports in issues relating to administration and procurement, as well as maintaining database on relevant stakeholders.
Record of experience in liaising or communication with African stakeholders.

Other Essential Skills and Experience

Demonstrated knowledge and competence in administrative and clerical work is required.
Demonstrated ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external counterparts is required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, or more of AU Official language
Able to work independently and in a team
Proficiency in one AU official languages; second language will be considered as an advantage.
Computer skills; Microsoft Office, MS word, Excel, PPT, Outlook. more

Tasks
The Pillar Lead – Pastoral Private Sector Market Integration Consultant will be expected to:

Facilitate the integration of pastoralists into formal livestock markets (local/export)
Promote stakeholder engagement, coordination and capacity building
Promote value addition across pastoral livestock supply chain
Promote enhanced investments in pastoral livestock sector
Support project... implementation, monitoring and evaluation, reporting, project resource management, documentation and information sharing

The key responsibilities of the Consultant will include the following:
Project implementation and management

Lead the pastoral sector landscape, profiling and market analyses to identify priority private sector partners, investment and marketing opportunities in target geographies / countries
Lead the development and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive strategy for pastoral and private sector engagement, and strengthening their integration in the livestock markets
Coordinate the National Market Integration Pillar groups activities.
Support the development and management of a database on pastoral marketing-chain.
Design and lead the implementation of initiatives aimed at promoting the integration of pastoral private sector into the livestock markets.
Explore and advocate for the use of innovative technologies and digital solutions to enhance market access and integration for pastoralists.
Contribute to Platform governance and management as a member of the Platform Management Committee (PMC)

Stakeholder engagement, coordination and capacity building

Facilitate coordination among various pastoral market stakeholders, including pastoralists (producers), private sector entities, pastoral associations, collective initiatives; NGOs and government agencies; RECs, international partners and development agencies, to ensure seamless operations of the platform.
Engage in advocacy and communication activities to raise awareness of the importance of pastoral integration into livestock markets.
Facilitate public-private dialogues and develop collaborative business-opportunity proposals for mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations
Provide technical assistance on sustainable and inclusive business models for pastoral livestock sub-sector.
Identify capacity building needs and programs for pastoralists, private sector entities, and other stakeholders to enhance their understanding and engagement in the market integration process, and partnership development.

Monitoring and evaluation, and reporting on project implementation

Contribute to the development and operation of a robust M&E frameworks to track progress, measure impact, and identify areas for improvement in market integration initiatives.
Contribute to documentation and information sharing
Perform any other duties as requested by the Project Coordinator and the Director of AU-IBAR

Expected Outputs and Deliverables

Comprehensive Action Plan for the Private-Sector-Integration pillar.
An In-depth analysis of the pastoral and livestock market, identifying opportunities for market integration and potential private sector partnership, in the target countries/geographies.
Private sector mapping and profiling for pastoral investment and marketing in targeted geographies / countries
Comprehensive strategy for strengthening pastoralist integration into livestock markets.
Mechanism for marketing and investment data collection, analysis, and dissemination
Periodical progress reports (technical and financial) on project status, implementation, achievements vs. milestone, and challenges/risks.
Materials for showcasing the private sector investment and engagement in pastoral livestock markets (investment case studies and success stories, successful business model, etc.).
Documented capacity building need analysis; and training programs and materials for the sector stakeholders in the targeted geographies.

Requirements
Academic and Professional qualifications

Minimum qualification shall be Bachelor’s degree in livestock production, agribusiness, agriculture / livestock economics, or a related field that provides a strong foundation in pastoral market dynamics, and promoting private sector integration.
Post graduate degree, in similar fields will be considered as an advantage.
Certifications in project management applications, such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) will be considered as an additional asset, reflecting a standardized knowledge of project management practices.

General Experience

Demonstrable experience of a minimum five (5) years in managing / implementing projects, with diverse team, preferably in the development sector or related fields, at national, regional or multi-country levels;
Strong writing, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders;
Ability to work in a diverse / multicultural environment.
Understanding of, and sensitivity to the cultural and socio-economic contexts, ideally in pastoral communities in Africa.
Ability to adapt strategies and approaches in dynamic and sometimes challenging environments, ensuring project resilience and success.

Specific Experience

Minimum 5 years’ experience in implementing and managing development projects, with a strong emphasis on market development, agricultural projects, or related sectors.
Experience in pastoral or agricultural markets in the African context would be particularly valuable.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressive work experience in the pastoral and/or livestock sector
Demonstrated experience in pastoral / livestock sector, with a strong understanding of pastoral and/or livestock marketing, sector actors, challenges, and opportunities
Demonstrated experience in the development and implementing private sector engagement activities, ideally in the context of livestock markets
Strong analytical skills to navigate complex market systems and identify investment opportunities for integration and growth (e.g., market research, predictive analysis; financial analysis, risk assessment, etc.).

Other Skills

Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external counterparts is required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English is required. Proficiency in any other AU official language (Arabic, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese and Spanish) is desirable.
Able to work independently and as part of a team
Self-starter with the ability to strategically plan own work and follow-up on implementation
Ability to complete assignments and tasks on time. more

The specific objectives of the project are as follows:

Ratify and/or align relevant international/regional instruments related to blue economy themes (with specific reference to protecting and conserving biodiversity)
Optimizing conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity while minimizing conflicts among blue economy sub-themes
Strengthening measures for mitigating the negative impacts... of coastal and marine tourism, oil, gas, deep sea mining and climate change on aquatic biodiversity and environment
Strengthening gender inclusivity in aquatic biodiversity conservation and environmental management

For the implementation of this project, AU-IBAR seeks the services of a Planning and Monitoring Expert, for a short-term consultancy’ to support the implementation of activities relating mainly to project planning and monitoring for sustainable exploitation and conservation of aquatic biodiversity in African blue economy.
Objective of the Consultancy
The main objective of this consultancy is to support the ‘Conservation of Aquatic Biodiversity and Ecosystems in the Context of the African Blue Economy’ Project by strengthening its planning, monitoring and evaluation systems and practices and generate evidence-based feedback for delivery of project deliverables.
Job Description Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Project Team leader at AU-IBAR, the incumbent will undertake the following targeted areas of work so as to achieve the objectives of the Project ‘Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in African Blue Economy’:

Participate in the design, implementation and periodic reviews of project. Implementation processes and tools for strategy development, operational planning and budgeting, and results monitoring and reporting;
Provide technical support relating to the implementation of the project, particularly, supporting the project team to achieve strategic alignment with project objectives, by promoting Results-Based Management approach to project planning, management and monitoring of the project through the development of operational annual plans and performance indicators and targets grounded in the overall project work plan;
Undertake monitoring missions to track progress of project implementation and generate evidence-based monitoring reports against performance targets of the project to advice the project team on realization of planned deliverables;
Design and propose process improvements based on innovative techniques and best practices to ensure that activities pertaining to the annual planning and reporting cycle are implemented as per the project annual work plan;
Coordinate the preparation of regular Monthly, Trimester, Semi-Annual and Annual Reports on annual planning and budgeting, and results monitoring and reporting within prescribed timelines for communication with relevant stakeholders;
Coordinate the development of the project exit strategy;
Perform any other duties assigned by the Project Team Leader and / or the Director, AU-IBAR.

Academic Requirements
The incumbent should have an advanced University degree in Strategic Management, Project Planning and Management or related fields. An academic degree and relevant experiences in the field of Animal Resource and their ecosystems such as Fisheries and Aquaculture, Environmental Science, Agriculture and Veterinary would be an added advantage.
General Experience

At least 7 years of continuous working experience at senior and advisory positions in Results-Based Management (project planning, monitoring, reporting and evaluation) environment
Evidence of familiarization of functions of Regional Economic Communities, specialized regional institutions and AU Member States in implementation of blue economy related disciplines
In-depth experience of working within the multi-partner environment at continental, regional and national levels.

Specific Experience

Working knowledge and evidence of understanding and experience of African Union project planning, monitoring and reporting processes and tools, including the planning cycle;
An in-depth working knowledge with the African Monitoring and Evaluation Reporting Tool (AMERT) to develop work plans and budgets, and reports;
Familiarity with African Union Agenda 2063; and the Africa Blue Economy Strategy themes and their linkage to aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems;
Record of experience of formulation of frameworks, guidelines and strategies related to blue economy themes, including aquatic biodiversity and environmental conservation;
Proven experience and track record of working with project staff to develop work plans and budgets, reporting tools, and results-based reports;

Required Skills

Diplomacy and good interactive skills necessary for dealing with senior officials in Government, Regional Organizations, and donor/development organizations in Africa;
Good networking skills and ability to maintain positive and constructive dialogue and relationships with key institutions operating in the regions;
Organizational and inter-personal skills, and ability to work in a multi-cultural team environment
Very strong writing, analytical and communication skills are necessary.
Demonstrated ability to provide strong leadership and foster team environment is required
Ability to work under pressure and according to tight deadlines
Essential computer skills in particular competency in the use of basic Windows MS Office programs (Word, Excel, Power Point)
Proficiency and / or working knowledge of at least two AU languages (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Kiswahili) more

Main Functions
The position of the Program Assistant - Communications and Visibility will provide support to the Resilient Feed and Fodder Systems Project and work closely with the Senior Knowledge Management Officer AU-IBAR to undertake the following responsibilities:
Specific Responsibilities

Develop and implement a Knowledge Management, Communications, Visibility and Advocacy Strategy and... Plan for the RAFFS Project.
Develop and roll-out mechanisms for dissemination of key messages, project activities and achievements.
Contribute to content on feed and fodder on the Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems Project Microsite, and Online Community platform.
Develop and maintain Media relationships with relevant media organizations, journalists and science communicators at continental, regional and national levels.
Facilitate the usage of communication platforms and tools and conducting training activities for various internal and external stakeholders.
Work closely with Senior Knowledge Management Officer to capture and document information and knowledge, in the form of lessons learned and best practices, success stories, and data visualisation.
Develop communication materials, newsletters, and key messages and manage their dissemination widely among target groups through a wide array of online platforms, social media channels, multimedia productions, knowledge fairs and exhibitions, radio, television and media networks.
Provide support to stakeholders in advancing good communication practices to enhance the visibility of feed and fodder resources development activities across the continent.
Promote the visibility of the RAFFS Project, the project donors and implementing partners on various communication outputs and platforms, working closely with the graphics designer.
Submit a monthly progress report on the implementation of this contract.

Requirements
Academic and Professional Qualifications

A minimum of a university degree in either Communications, Science or Development Communications, or Journalism.
A relevant Master’s Degree will be considered as an added advantage.

Relevant Experience

Minimum of five (5) years’ experience working in developmental projects, with in the public and private sector;
Experience working in development agencies beyond national level, at regional and continental levels;
Evidence of engagement and relationships with media associations, or science media supporting agricultural or animal resources or environment and relevant cross-cutting issues. Specific experience in feed and fodder programmes will be an added advantage;
Demonstrated experience in knowledge synthesis; content management and communication packages for target audiences;
Demonstrated experience in use of communication and knowledge management tools, and production of reports, newsletters, and multimedia products;
Experience in generating advocacy messages tailored to persuade target audiences; and
Proven sector-level engagement and understanding of feed and fodder, resilience, animal resources development would be an advantage.

Required Skills

Good networking skills and ability to maintain positive and constructive dialogue and relationships with key institutions operating in different regions;
Self-starter with the ability to strategically plan own work and follow-up on implementation;
Sector related project development, management and implementation of communication strategies at national, regional and continental levels;
Very strong writing, analytical and communication skills are necessary;
Ability to complete assignments and tasks on time; and
Demonstrated ability to provide strong leadership and foster team environment is required.

Competences

Strategic Perspective
Skills Development
Change Management
Managing Risk
Building Relationships
Learning Orientation
Communicating with Impact

Functional Competencies

Conceptual Thinking
Knowledge and information sharing
Drive for Results
Fosters Innovation more

Specific Responsibilities

Develop and support the implementation of selected business models and strategies to address feed and fodder shortages.
Coordinate multi-stakeholder actions and processes towards feed and fodder production and increased investment.
Facilitate linkages between supply-chain actors including public and private sectors, and financial institutions, and producer... organizations.
Support development of sector policies aimed at creating an enabling environment for feed and fodder solutions.
Support documentation, knowledge management and adoption of best practices and viable models across the implementing countries
Submit a monthly progress report on the implementation of this contract.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

A minimum of post-graduate degree (Master’s degree) in Agri-business or Business Administration, or related degree. A PhD will be considered as an added advantage.
Professional certification in M&E, and or Project Management.
Foundational training in financial management.

Relevant Experience

Minimum of ten (10) years of sector-level engagement in the feed and fodder sub-sector.
Demonstrated experience in the development and delivery of viable models for enhancing access to quality and affordable feed and fodder.
Evidence of supporting multiple-country feed and fodder programmes.
Demonstrated experience in linking and coordinating multi-actors in the feed and fodder sector.
Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing aggregation, functional financing, co-investment and risk management mechanisms to enhance access to feed and fodder.
Experience in working for or with financial institutions, public, private and development sectors will be an added advantage.
Evidence of participating in policy formulation or review in the feed and fodder sector. coordinating and feed and feeding policy reform.

Required Skills

Good networking skills and ability to maintain positive and constructive dialogue and relationships with key institutions operating in the regions;
Self-starter with the ability to strategically plan own work and follow-up on implementation;
Sector related project development, management and implementation skills at national, regional and continental levels;
Very strong writing, analytical and communication skills are necessary;
Ability to complete assignments and tasks on time;
Demonstrated ability to provide strong leadership and foster team environment is required. more

Main Functions

Coordinate large-scale studies and assessments in multiple Member States and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in the livestock sector.
Undertake data analytics to support decision making and policy reform.
Provide technical support and mentoring for improved digital capacities.
Support the implementation of the harmonized data management strategies and ecosystems in the... livestock sector.
Ensure the requisite digital infrastructure, institutional and technical capacities are built for operationalization.
Support improvement in data ecosystems including architecture, governance and management processes.
Support systematic capacity building for data ecosystems and analytics.

Specific Responsibilities

Take the lead in designing and methodological work for the RAFFS Project assessments.
Promote operationalization of data management platforms and ecosystem at continental, regional and national levels.
Take lead in working with the Member States in consultative processes to support implementation of country-action plans for improved data management systems for enhanced capacities to response to feed and fodder shortages.
Improvement and support of integrated multi-actor data infrastructure upgrade and capacity development for the implementing Member States
Build systemic capacity for data analytics for decision making, policy, regulatory and institutional reform and attracting increased investment.
Promote sustainable planning and data management of the feed and fodder sub-sector ecosystems.
Submit a monthly progress report on the implementation of this contract.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

A minimum of post-graduate University degree (Master’s degree) in Computer Science or Information Technology or related degree. A PhD will be considered as an added advantage.
Professional qualification in Data Science or Statistics.
Any other relevant industry professional certification (e.g. System Engineer, Digital Transformation, etc).

Relevant Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive work experience in the field of digital innovation, digital strategies, digital change management and corporate ICT services in agriculture/livestock industry.
Proven experience in implementing Big Data analytics project (s).
Minimum of five (5) years’ experience at senior level and in managing complex agriculture and livestock data processes.
Experience in identification and application of digital innovation and technologies in agriculture or livestock industry.
Experience in managing agricultural data as a service, including advancing the use of mobile applications.

Required Skills

Good networking skills and ability to maintain positive and constructive dialogue and relationships with key institutions operating in the regions;
Self-starter with the ability to strategically plan own work and follow-up on implementation;
Sector related project development, management and implementation skills at national, regional and continental levels;
Very strong writing, analytical and communication skills are necessary;
Ability to complete assignments and tasks on time;
Demonstrated ability to provide strong leadership and foster team environment is required.

Competences

Strategic Perspective
Developing Others
Change Management
Managing Risk
Building Relationships
Learning Orientation
Communicating with impact more

Overall Objective
The overall objective of the consultancy is to provide technical support for the implementation of the Animal Health Facilitating Trade Project” and the “Support for the Participation of African Nations in the Work of the World Organisation for Animal Health Project”.
Tasks
The Animal Health Expert will undertake the following tasks

Provide technical support for the... implementation of the “Animal Health Systems Facilitating Trade” project and the “Support for the Participation of African Nations in the Work of the World Organisation for Animal Health” Project
Coordinate generation of evidence in beneficiary AU Member States and RECs to inform capacity development and disease risk management
Jointly coordinate with ECOWAS Commission on the harmonization of SPS processes for trade facilitation in priority animals and animal products in selected regional trade corridors
Support the delivery of capacity building activities to build core competencies for the design and implementation of evidence-based SPS measures in the animal health sector
Contributing to the identification of trade enhancing policies, regulatory, and procedural improvements in collaboration with RECs, AU Member States and relevant Partners to facilitate intra-African trade in animals and animal products
Develop relevant policy briefs for decision making
Monitor trade in animals and animal products in Africa and coordinate with RECs to prepare Outlook Report for trade in animals and animal products
Support the coordination of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and AU Member States to facilitate the development and presentation of African Positions on draft Chapters of WOAH on priority animal health issues
Coordinate dialogue platform to exchange views and comments on WOAH standards among the Africa Region and the Region of the America’s
Prepare final Technical Report on Project Implementation.
Any other duty as may be assigned by the Director of AU-IBAR

Expected Outputs and Deliverables

An inception report developed outlining detailed methodology and work plan to undertake the tasks
Evidence generated to inform capacity development and disease risk management interventions in selected beneficiary countries
Trade enhancing policies, regulatory, and procedural improvements to facilitate intra-African trade in animals and animal products identified
Activities to harmonize SPS processes for trade facilitation in priority animals and animal products in selected regional trade corridors coordinated
Capacity building activities on core competencies for implementation of SPS measures undertaken
Policy briefs developed and disseminated to stakeholders to support decision making
Outlook Report for trade in animals and animal products
African Positions on draft Chapters of WOAH on priority animal health issues coordinated and presented at the Specialist Commission meetings and the General Assembly of the WOAH
Dialogue platform to exchange views and comments on WOAH standards among the Africa Region and the Region of the America’s operationalized
Final Technical Report on Project Implementation.

Academic Qualification

At least an advanced University Degree in veterinary medicine, veterinary public health, epidemiology or relevant animal health related field. A PhD degree will be an added advantage.

General experience

At least 7 years of proven experience in public and/or private sector animal health services at national, regional or international levels;
At least 7 years’ experience working on management of priority transboundary animal diseases in the different regions of Africa particularly ECOWAS region;
At least 7 years’ working knowledge of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) standards and the WTO SPS Agreement;
At least 7 years working knowledge of evaluation and assessment of various aspects of veterinary services using tools such as PVS, JEE etc

Specific Experience

Experience in delivering capacity development interventions for veterinary services in key competency areas for prevention and control of transboundary animal diseases based on WOAH standards;
Proven knowledge and experience on harmonization of disease prevention and control especially in cross border areas with focus on the ECOWAS region;
Proven record of familiarization with and participation in policy processes for adoption of instruments, initiatives and development of recommendations by ECOWAS and AU Policy Organs
Experience in formulating regional and continental animal health strategies and frameworks;
Demonstrated experience in the principles and practice of risk analysis as a tool for facilitating safe trade in animals and animal products
Proven working knowledge and experience on livestock values chains development;

Skills and Competencies

Demonstrated experience in establishment and implementation of sanitary agreements/protocols and undertaking technical negotiations to facilitate safe trade in animals and animal products;
Diplomacy and good interactive skills necessary for dealing with senior officials in Government, Regional Organizations, and donor/development organizations;
Proven record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals; more

Objective
The objective of this consultancy is to hire an AMR Expert to provide technical support to the implementation and coordination of the project “Containing the Emergence and Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance in Africa (CES-AMR Africa) Project”
Main Functions

Have responsibility for implementation of the CES-AMR Africa Project, under direct guidance of the Primary Program Contact at... AU-IBAR
Support implementation of the AU Framework for AMR control
Provide policy advisory services on AMR and recommendations for related policy improvements
Provide technical assistance and guidance to member states and RECs in developing science-based AMR prevention and mitigation measures

Tasks
The AMR Expert will undertake the following tasks

Coordinate the establishment of the Africa AMR Surveillance Network (AMRSNET)
Convene fora of the Africa AMR Surveillance Network (AMRSNET)
Collaborate with relevant technical partners, laboratory standards organizations and other partners, in order to harmonize susceptibility testing and interpretation in Africa.
Develop a database of AMR reference laboratories in Africa to provide specialty testing, training and capacity building in national laboratories, including through twinning approaches.
Support the delivery of trainings aimed at building laboratories capacities to undertake AMR surveillance through south-south and north-south cooperation
Coordinate AMR surveillance activities in priority regional value chains
Contribute to the review and or development of AMR policies, strategies or National Action Plans at the national, regional or continental levels
Support AU Task Force on AMR to coordinate, monitor and report trends on AMR and AMU in Africa to relevant AU accountability mechanisms
Support the development of relevant advocacy, policy briefs and communication materials to advance AMR work in Africa
Support regular project management meeting between AU-IBAR, USDA-FAS and other relevant partners.
Prepare technical reports on progress in project implementation and achievements
Support the implementation of other AMR related projects and programmes at the African Union Commission
Any other duty as may be assigned by the Director of AU-IBAR

Expected Outputs and Deliverables

Africa AMR Surveillance Network (AMRSNET) established
Forum of Africa AMR Surveillance Network (AMRSNET) convened at least annually
Trainings conducted to build laboratories capacities to undertake AMR surveillance
AMR surveillance undertaken in priority regional animal resources value chains
Member States and RECs supported on needs bases to review and or develop their AMR policies, strategies or National Action Plans
Report on trends on AMR and AMU and progress in combatting AMR in Africa produced and shared with relevant AU accountability mechanisms and Partners
Advocacy, policy briefs and communication materials to advance AMR work in Africa developed and disseminated to relevant stakeholders
Regular project management meetings between AU-IBAR, USDA-FAS and other relevant partners organized
Reports on progress in project implementation and achievements
Implementation of other AMR related projects and programmes at the African Union Commission supported

Academic Qualification

At least an advanced University Degree in veterinary medicine, microbiology, veterinary public health, public health, pharmacy, epidemiology or relevant field related to surveillance of antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance. A PhD degree will be an added advantage.

General Experience

At least 10 years working experience in the animal health and animal production in either the livestock, fisheries and aquaculture sectors at national, regional or continental levels
At least 5 years demonstrated working experience in the field of One Health with emphasis on AMR and disease prevention and control
At least 5 years relevant experience in project management and

Specific Experience

Proven working experience in diagnostic testing; use of standardized protocols and laboratory quality assurance; collection and testing of specimens for AMR surveillance
Evidence of providing training and capacity building of AU Member States’ national AMR
Demonstrated knowledge in antimicrobial resistance, biosecurity, and infection prevention and control.
Working experience in coordinating and managing laboratory networks at national, regional or continental levels
Demonstrated working experience in developing policies, strategies, legislations and National Action Plans on AMR
Proven record of familiarization with and participation in policy processes for adoption of instruments, initiatives and development of recommendations by AU Policy Organs

Skills and Competencies

Diplomacy and good interactive skills necessary for dealing with senior officials in Government, Regional Organizations, and donor/development organizations;
Working knowledge of internationally recognized AMR surveillance systems such as the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS), Assessment Tool for Laboratories and AMR Surveillance Systems (ATLASS) etc.
Experience in the use of data for decision making, including AMR surveillance, outbreak investigation and demonstrated writing-skills through peer-reviewed AMR-related more