Terms of Reference for a Coordinator, the African Seed and Biotechnology Programme (ASBP) –Short Term Consultancy

Background:

Recognizing the importance of improved seeds as a major input in increasing agricultural productivity quantitatively and qualitatively for the attainment of food security in the Continent, the African Union Heads of State during the 5th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU in Sirte, Libya in July 2005 recommended the need to formulate an Africa-wide seed and biotechnology programme as one of the priority areas for the development of Africa. A decision endorsing the programme was adopted at the 8th Ordinary Session of the Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2007. The ASBP is a strategic framework for the development of the African seed sector with 6 major components to be implemented at Continental, Regional and National levels.

In this connection, the AUC invites applications from suitable qualified citizens of Member States of the AU to apply for the position of Coordinator, African Seed and Biotechnology Programme (ASBP) on the following terms and conditions.

POST:

Post Title: Coordinator, African Seed and Biotechnology Programme (ASBP)
Unit: Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture
Supervisor: Head, Rural Economy Division
Duration: Six (6) months
Duty Station: Addis Ababa

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Head, Rural Economy Division the consultant will contribute to the operationalization and implementation of the ASBP.

Specifically, the consultant will undertake the following tasks:

• Review and update the ASBP Framework documents (The Institutional Arrangements and Implementation Strategy Documents with particular attention to elaborating on the Biotechnology Component of the Framework Document;
• Assist the AU in liaising with potential donors, relevant institutions and partners identified in the revised framework document RECs, CGIAR centers, seed initiatives.
• Prepare and submit to potential donors proposals for implementation of the various components/activities of the ASBP at Regional and National Levels.
• Liaise with relevant AU Member States’ Seed Sector Development institutions and identify national focal teams for ASBP.
• Assist the AUC in putting in place an advocacy/communications strategy for increased awareness of the ASBP.
• Assist the AU in publishing the revised ASBP documents including through a website.
• Contribute to the overall management of the ASBP

Educational Qualifications:

The Consultant should

• Possess at least a Master’s Degree in Agriculture, biological sciences, with a strong experience in Seed Biotechnology, Project development, and Resource Mobilization.
• Experience in research, extension, networking, seed sector development will be an advantage.
• Possess at least 8 years’ experience in agricultural sector development particularly in Africa.
• Have initiative, good team spirit and be able to work in a multicultural setting.

Work experience requirement: Candidates must have at least 5 years of appropriate experience. A good knowledge of the CAADP principles and implementation strategy would be an added advantage.

Other relevant skills Required :

• Understanding of crop systems within various agro-ecological zones;
• Broad awareness of the National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS), regional programs in agriculture and IARCs;
• Working knowledge of policy analysis and development;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment;
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills;
• Good communication skills;
• Good planning and organisational skills ;
• Strong computer skills.

Language Requirement:

Proficiency in one of the African Union working languages. Knowledge of one or more of the other working languages would be an added advantage.

Gender Mainstreaming: The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Remuneration: US$7000 per month. This amount includes the Consultant’s remuneration and living costs in Addis Ababa for the duration of the contract.

Tenure of Appointment: Six (6) Months.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF CVS

Applications must be received not later than Thursday October 3rd 2013.

SUBMISSION OF CVS

CVs can be hand delivered or emailed to the address below:
Attn: Ag Head, Procurement, Travel and Stores Division
African Union Commission
3rd Floor Building C
P.O. Box 3243
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Email: tender@africa-union.org

Please indicate the Title of the assignment clearly in the subject matter for CVs that are being submitted by email.

Certificates and transcripts will be submitted by the successful candidates on request.