ABOUT ONE ACRE FUND

Founded in 2006, One Acre Fund supplies 1 million smallholder farmers with the agricultural services they need to make their farms vastly more productive. Our 8,000+ team is drawn from diverse backgrounds and professions. With operations across six core countries in Africa, we make farmers more prosperous by providing quality farm supplies on credit, delivered within walking distance of farmers’ homes, and agricultural training to improve harvests. On average, the farmers we serve harvest 50 percent more food after working with One Acre Fund.

To learn more about our work, take a look at our Why Work Here blog for more information.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Working within the Technology Division of the organization you will be in a position to serve as the technical expert, providing specific expertise in the areas of system functionality, system features, report generation, data integrity, and data analysis for One Acre Fund SuccessFactors solution. You will report to the head of our enterprise resource planning team where you will work alongside an experienced team of engineers and consultants. This position is for someone who not only wants to continue learning but also does well in different situations and is comfortable with being presented with new challenges. You will provide business and technical software assistance to our team that uses SuccessFactors daily.

In taking on this responsibility: You will manage the maintenance of the HRIS, SAP SuccessFactors solution, and its modules; You will manage the Service delivered to the HR and Technical Division Departments where the integrated solutions overlap; You will maintain other applications that work together with the HRIS like the payroll system, google workspace among others.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• You will design, manage system processes and documentation based on lessons learned, continuous improvement, and quarterly releases for modules
• Create and publish dashboards and metrics
• Work with other system administrators to ensure consistency, share best practices, improve processes and develop system knowledge
• You will lead process improvement efforts, in the areas of workflow, system enhancements.
• You will develop and write quality assurance tests and participate in their execution
• Manage daily operations and special projects.
• You will consult with the HR and IT leaders, with an approach to future release functionality
• Have deep system knowledge to make the process and system changes, including configuration, permissions.
• Ensure processes across solutions
• Manage implementation of new products, new processes, and requirements
• Manage release updates and work with leadership to determine enablement plan
• Manage to test system changes in Test and Production environments
• Coordinate’s delivery of training for end-users (Documentation/Training materials)
• You will monitor and triages interface issues with 3rd party vendor solutions.

CAREER GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You’ll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You’ll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

QUALIFICATIONS

Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:

• 3+ years professional experience in IT with a focus on HR systems management
• Success Factors Expert Accredited in Employee Central and Onboarding, with system implementation experience plus one other SuccessFactors module such as: Performance, Goals, Compensation, Recruiting, or Recruiting Marketing
• Advanced administrator skills with SuccessFactors Employee Central and Onboarding
• Knowledge of HRIS system integrations
• Experience in the development of functional design specifications for business application
• Complex scenarios and the ability to identify the causes, and recommend corrective and preventative actions
• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Engineering, or equivalent computer-related discipline from an accredited college or university
• Language: English

PREFERRED START DATE

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, start dates can vary significantly by role. We are adapting rapidly to Covid-19 and most of our team is now working remotely. Given the changing environment, we will appreciate your flexibility in confirming a start date.

JOB LOCATION

Kigali, Rwanda

BENEFITS

Health insurance, paid time off

ELIGIBILITY

This role is only open to citizens or permanent residents of Rwanda.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11 October 2021

One Acre Fund never asks candidates to pay any money or pay for tests at any stage of the interview process. Official One Acre Fund emails will always arrive from an @oneacrefund.org address. Please report any suspicious communication here (globalhotline@oneacrefund.org), but do not send applications or application materials to this email address.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), and anti-racism are deeply connected to our organization’s mission and purpose. One Acre Fund aspires to build a culture where all staff feel consistently valued, represented, and connected – so that our team can thrive as professionals, and achieve exceptional impact for the farmers we serve.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace

Click here to read more & apply

1. (ToR) for the Provision of Consultancy Services to Develop a Five Years Strategic Plan for AfriYAN Rwanda

2. (ToR) for the Provision of Consultancy Services to train youth and Adolescents on gender policy analysis and youth-led advocacy through Generation G Programme

1. (EoI)-Consultancy for Photography and video production for Make-IT in Africa

Expression of Interest (EoI) Consultancy for Photography and video production for Make-IT in Africa

Contract identification number: 83386399

Introduction  

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a federally owned international cooperation enterprise for sustainable development with worldwide operations. GIZ has worked in Rwanda for over 30 years. The primary objectives between the Government of Rwanda and the Federal Republic of Germany are poverty reduction and promotion of sustainable development. To achieve these objectives, GIZ Rwanda is active in the sectors of Decentralization and Good Governance, Economic Development and Employment Promotion, Energy and ICT (Information and Communications Technology).

0.Brief information on the project

GIZ is implementing the ‘Make-IT in Africa’ project on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) in the pan-African region. “Make-IT in Africa” is currently in its second project phase (2020-2023).

Make-IT in Africa believes in African innovation and digital technologies for a green and sustainable development. In close collaboration with start-ups, local innovation enablers and political partners, we empower entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems. Together we aim to strengthen an environment in which the full potential of digital innovation can unfold.

To this end, Make-IT in Africa works on three levels:

i. Micro-level – Start-upsThe start-up level is about aligning the business models of start-ups with market realities and making them fit for the future. Our approach is to strengthen the technical and market-oriented capacities and competences within the start-ups. In addition, the start-ups are empowered to strategically and tactically seek and shape partnerships with other – especially international – players.

ii. Meso level – Intermediaries: The intermediary level is about supporting intermediaries (e.g. business networks, innovation hubs) to provide a high-quality service to start-ups and other ecosystem actors that is financially sustainable and independent of donor funding. Our approach is to support the development of networks (e.g. investor networks) and connect national actors with pan-African partners. We also work closely with the African European Digital Innovation Bridge (AEDIB) – a project initiated by the European Commission, several EU member states and a network of partners to promote intercontinental innovation partnerships. AEDIB is establishing three African Digital Innovation Hubs (ADIHs) and linking them to the European Innovation Hub network.

iii.    Macro level – Policy frameworks: In terms of policy frameworks, the aim is to support the development of methodologies and tools to make national, pan-African and Africa-European approaches to digital innovation applicable across borders. At the same time, African policymakers are encouraged to create an enabling environment in their digital business and innovation ecosystem. To achieve this goal, we are developing target group-specific dialogue formats and instruments on, for example, start-up policy and funding instruments.

1.    Context

To address our different target groups on the different levels we are currently working out a new communication strategy for our second project phase. But we´ve already created relevant communication products which we can build on and communicate via several channels (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Website, see links below). For various communication purposes, high-quality, professional image material is needed again and again – for both digital and analogue communication products. This applies to both photographic and moving image material.

The links below give further information and insights in our communication channels. Our website is currently being revised and will soon (August 2021) appear in a new design and with new content.

Website: www.make-it-in-africa.org

Publications: Publications – Make-IT in Africa (make-it-initiative.org)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/make-it-in-africa

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Make_IT_Africa

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/make.it.in.africa.giz

2.Tasks to be performed by the contractor

In the long term, the contractor compiles creative image material (photo and video material) suitable for the target groups for Make-IT in Africa, so that a photo pool is created, which can be used under creative commons guidelines (according to CC0 or CC BY). For this purpose, the contractor can be booked regularly by Make-IT in Africa, for example, for events, campaigns, photo shoots and other situations and environments in which suitable footage can be captured. Furthermore, the service provider knows the visual needs of Make-IT in Africa and offers suitable image material for the transfer of rights. Furthermore, the editing of image and video material is part of the contract.

The contractor is responsible for providing the required professional equipment. The image material is made available to Make-IT in Africa in various formats (.jpg, .png, .ai, .indd, .psd, .mp4, .mov, .avi etc.), including the raw materials.

The produced material can be used under creative commons guidelines (according to CC0 or CC BY).

The contractor is responsible for providing the following services:

a.    Service package  I (Comprehensive service package, includes the other packages): Photo- and Video Pool

• The contractor produces a long-term image pool, which can be used under creative commons guidelines. This refers to photo and video material.
• The topics depicted relate primarily but not exclusively to the entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem in Africa and political contexts. Topics could be i.e.: Innovation Hubs/Incubators/Innovation Spaces, Entrepreneur portraits, Digital for Agriculture (related to Climate Change), Smart cities, Female founders, COVID-19, eHealth, FinTech, Clean Tech, Open Innovation, Technologies (i.e. Artificial Intelligence, Big data, Platforms, drones/satellite imagery), Ecosystem Events (including Partner events), Political events, Tech related events, Symbolic pictures (i.e. arrangements, flags etc.).
• The visual material captures the pan-African ecosystem approach. If specific images are required in certain countries, the service provider may also subcontract a local service provider after consultation with the client.
• The contract also includes the recording of image and video material in cooperation and with the client’s partners, e.g. in the form of a visit to an innovation hub or at partner events.

b.    Service package II: Events (25 Expert Days, of which 10 Expert Days are for the team leader)

• The contractor can be booked regularly by Make-IT in Africa to capture footage at events in different contexts (e.g. political contexts, tech events) and several African countries. Hours are provided for this in the contract.
• The contractor has the necessary authorisations to attend official and political events (e.g. press card).
• The contractor shall take into account the legal framework for taking pictures according GDPR. He is responsible for obtaining the legally required declarations of consent from the persons depicted and handing them over to Make-IT in Africa (European law applies).

c.    Service package III:  Photo- and Video shootings (25 Expert Days, of which 10 Expert Days for the team leader)

• The contractor can be booked regularly by Make-IT in Africa for Photo- and Video shootings in different contexts and as well as capture activities/moments from several African countries. Hours are provided for this in the contract.
• The contractor shall take into account the legal framework for taking pictures according GDPR. He or she is responsible for obtaining the legally required declarations of consent from the persons depicted and handing them over to Make-IT in Africa (European law applies).

d.    Service package IV: Offer and research of suitable visual material (10 Expert Days, of which 2 Expert Days for the team leader)

• The contractor knows the visual needs of Make-IT in Africa. Appropriately, he or she offers Make-IT in Africa suitable visual material (photo and video material) for legal adoption. A quota for this is provided for in the contract.
• If specific pictures are needed, for example regarding to specific topics, the contractor also does a search in its own database and offers the client a selection of images to take over. This is also implemented for requests at short notice.
• The contractor shall take into account the legal framework for taking pictures according GDPR. He or she is responsible for obtaining the legally required declarations of consent from the persons depicted and handing them over to Make-IT in Africa (European law applies).
• The material can be used under creative commons guidelines (according to CC0 or CC BY).

e.    Service package V: Photo and Video editing (40 Expert Days, of which 10 Expert Days for the team leader)

• If necessary, the contractor shall edit the photos taken after consultation with the client. He or she takes into account the corporate design of Make-IT in Africa, GIZ and BMZ.
• The contractor edits video material into finished (short) videos. In consultation with the Make-IT in Africa project team, he/she creates a storyline and, if necessary, a storyboard. He/she includes subtitles into the video if necessary. Care is taken to use licence-free music and melodies. When editing the video material, he/she takes into account the corporate design of Make-IT in Africa, GIZ and BMZ. He/she includes predefined opening and closing credits.

Certain milestones, as laid out in the table below, are to be achieved by certain dates during the contract term, and at particular locations in Kigali/Rwanda:

Period of assignment: From 9^th August 2021 until 31^st July 2022.

• Data protection

Any personal data included in this agreement shall be processed pursuant to the Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation/GDPR) to the extend this law is applicable. Such data shall be processed solely for the purposes of the performance, management and monitoring of this agreement.

§  Obligation of Data Confidentiality

In particular, the Parties acknowledge that – when establishing any joint works, personal data from the other Party might be disclosed, such as for instance address lists. In the case of any such disclosure of personal data, the Parties undertake to maintain data confidentiality according to Art. 5 General Data Protection Regulation, against everyone. The Parties will extend these obligations also to their employees to the extent dictated by law. Parties will therefore ensure that their own employees do not forward any personal data to third parties or otherwise use them for purposes which are not in accordance with this agreement. The aforementioned principles also apply in the event that a Party subcontracts third parties with their task fulfillment.

The obligations to maintain data confidentiality and data protection are essential duties of this agreement; they continue to exist indefinitely after completion of any joint work.

§  Freedom from third-party data protection rights

The contractor warrants that any data transmitted to GIZ has been processed in accordance with the applying data protection laws, in particular the General Data Protection Regulation and are free from any third-party rights that would prejudice the use of this data within the purpose of this agreement. The contractor ensures a valid legal basis for the processing of personal data transmitted to GIZ including but not limited to collecting data subjects’ consents. The contractor indemnifies GIZ against all claims arising from the violation of data protection laws or fines imposed by governmental agencies and shall reimburse GIZ for all costs incurred in connection with its corresponding legal defense.

3.Concept

In the bid, the bidder is required to show how the objectives defined in Chapter 3 are to be achieved, if applicable under consideration of further specific method-related requirements (technical-methodological concept). In addition, the bidder must describe the project management system for service provision.

Technical-methodological concept

Strategy: The bidder is required to consider the tasks to be performed with reference to the objectives of the services put out to tender (see Chapter 3.). Following this, the bidder presents and justifies the strategy with which it intends to provide the services for which it is responsible (see Chapter 3).

The bidder is required to present the actors relevant for the services for which it is responsible and describe the cooperation with them.

The bidder is required to present and explain its approach to steering the measures with the project partners and its contribution to the results-based monitoring system.

The bidder is required to describe the key processes for the services for which it is responsible and create a schedule that describes how the services according to Chapter 3 are to be provided. In particular, the bidder is required to describe the necessary work steps and, if applicable, take account of the milestones and contributions of other actors in accordance with Chapter 3.

The bidder is required to describe its contribution to knowledge management for the partner and GIZ and promote scaling-up effects (learning and innovation).

Other specific requirements

The bidder is requested to submit the following work samples:

• Presentation of three results of photo shootings in the tech and/or innovation environment (with and without people depicted)
• Presentation of two results of portrait photo shootings (preferably in the start-up scene)
• Presentation of two results of event photography in the tech and/or innovation environment
• Presentation of two results of event photography in the political environment
• Presentation of up to ten further photos which fit to the requested topics and sectors (see Chapter 3.a)
• Presentation of two videos which were captured and edited by the consultant and fit to the requested topics and sectors (see Chapter 3.a)

Project management of the contractor

The bidder is required to explain its approach for coordination with the GIZ project.

• The contractor is responsible for selecting, preparing, training and steering the experts (international and national, short and long term) assigned to perform the advisory tasks.
• The contractor makes available equipment and supplies (consumables) and assumes the associated operating and administrative costs.
• The contractor manages costs and expenditures, accounting processes and invoicing in line with the requirements of GIZ.

The contractor reports regularly to GIZ in accordance with the AVB of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH from 2018

The bidder is required to describe its backstopping concept. The following services are part of the standard backstopping package, which (like ancillary personnel costs) must be factored into the fee schedules of the staff listed in the bid in accordance with section 5.4 of the AVB:

• Service-delivery control
• Managing adaptations to changing conditions
• Ensuring the flow of information between GIZ and field staff
• Contractor’s responsibility for seconded personnel
• Process-oriented technical-conceptual steering of the consultancy inputs
• Securing the administrative conclusion of the project

4. Personnel concept

The bidder is required to provide personnel who are suited to filling the positions described, on the basis of their CVs (see Chapter 8), the range of tasks involved and the required qualifications.

The below specified qualifications represent the requirements to reach the maximum number of points.

Team leader

Tasks of the team leader

• Overall responsibility for the advisory packages of the contractor (quality and deadlines)
• Coordinating and ensuring communication with GIZ, partners and others involved in the project
• Personnel management, in particular identifying the need for short-term assignments within the available budget, as well as planning and steering assignments and supporting local and international short-term experts
• Regular reporting in accordance with deadlines

Qualifications of the team leader

• Education/training (2.1.1): University qualification (‘Diplom’/Master) in communication, graphic design, journalism, marketing, photography, video production, public relations, media or related fields
• Language (2.1.2): Good business language skills in English
• General professional experience (2.1.3): 5 years of professional experience in photography, video production and/or graphic design
• Specific professional experience (2.1.4): 2 years in photography, video production and/or graphic design regarding tech and innovation topics
• Leadership/management experience (2.1.5): 5 years of management/leadership experience as project team leader or manager in a company
• Regional experience (2.1.6): 5 years of experience in projects in pan-African region, of which 2 years in projects in Rwanda (country)

Short-term expert pool with minimum 2, maximum 4 members

Tasks of the short-term expert pool

• e. photography, creation of moving image material
• editing of photos and moving image material
• Editing raw material into finished videos
• Research of own database of suitable images and offer of these images to the client

Qualifications of the short-term expert pool

• Education/training (2.6.1): 2 experts with university qualification (‘Diplom’/Master) in communication, graphic design, journalism, marketing, photography, video production, public relations, media or related fields
• Language (2.6.2): 2 experts with very good language skills in English
• General professional experience (2.6.3): 2 experts with at least 4 years of experience in photography, video production and/or graphic design
• Specific professional experience (2.6.4): 2 experts with at least 2 years in photography, video production and/or graphic design regarding tech and innovation topics
• Regional experience (2.6.5): 2 experts with at least 4 years of experience in pan-African region

The bidder must provide a clear overview of all proposed short-term experts and their individual qualifications.

5.Costing requirements

Assignment of personnel

Other costs

• Amount of budget for the legal adoption of offered photo and video material from already existing image material

6. Submission and evaluation of your EoI

Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386399

EoI will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Company or individual profile,
• Relevant experience,
• Company strategies to assure agility, flexibility and responsiveness,
• Personnel and,
• Financial offer.

The EoI should contain the following:

For Technical Proposal:

The structure of the bid must correspond to the structure of the ToRs. In particular, the detailed structure of the concept (Chapter 4) is to be organised in accordance with the positively weighted criteria in the assessment grid (not with zero). It must be legible (font size 11 or larger) and clearly formulated. The bid is drawn up in English.

The complete bid shall not exceed 10 pages (including the CVs, excluding the working samples).

The CVs of the personnel proposed in accordance with Chapter 5 of the ToRs must be submitted using the format specified in the terms and conditions for application. The CVs shall not exceed 2 pages. The CVs must clearly show the position and job the proposed person held in the reference project and for how long. The CVs needs to be submitted in English.

If one of the maximum page lengths is exceeded, the content appearing after the cut-off point will not be included in the assessment.

For the Financial Proposal:

The Financial Proposal indicates the contract price, supported by a breakdown of consultancy fee per day + all other costs such us (if needed) daily allowance, accommodation expenses and other travel expenses. The cost must be in RWF and VAT excluded.  Follow the below table for finance offer.

Please submit electronically your EoI (technical & Financial offer)  in 2 separated PDF files  to this email: RW_Quotation@giz.de until latest Friday 30 July 2021 at 4:00 pm,

Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386399

Hard copies are not allowed this time

GIZ reserves all rights

2. (EoI)-Recruitment of a Consultancy Firm to develop a Digital Health White Paper as a drive for digital transformation and to boost socio-economic development in Africa during and beyond COVID-19

Expression of Interest (EoI) Recruitment of a Consultancy Firm to develop a Digital Health White Paper as a drive for digital transformation and to boost socio-economic development in Africa during and beyond COVID-19.

 Contract identification number: 83386398

 Introduction 

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a federally owned international cooperation enterprise for sustainable development with worldwide operations. GIZ has worked in Rwanda for over 30 years. The primary objectives between the Government of Rwanda and the Federal Republic of Germany are poverty reduction and promotion of sustainable development. To achieve these objectives, GIZ Rwanda is active in the sectors of Decentralization and Good Governance, Economic Development and Employment Promotion, Energy and ICT (Information and Communications Technology).

0.Context

Digitalization and technological change have contributed significantly to driving economic growth and raising living standards across the globe. However, digitalization has created challenges and its benefits have not been shared widely enough. In response, in 2019, the German government published its Digital Technologies for Development strategy, acknowledging that the Agenda 2030 with its sustainable development goals can only be achieved with the help and utilization of digital technologies.

In the same year, the Smart Africa Secretariat (SAS, based in Kigali) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) realized that in the rapidly changing, highly interconnected and digitalized world creating positive social, economic and environmental change requires the cooperation of a wide range of stakeholders from the digital society and economy. Both parties, SAS and BMZ, have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to address the challenges of the digital age as a basis for sustainable development and stability.

SAS and BMZ agreed to work together in a multi-stakeholder framework on the implementation of digital solutions for Africa’s social and economic challenges. The initial work plan details seven areas where German Cooperation and SAS collectively work towards developing Africa into a single digital market. Currently, more than half a dozen technical cooperation, as well as one financial cooperation projects, are involved in the implementation of the partnership.

Building upon the JDoI, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) is offering support for the elaboration of Smart Africa’s White Paper initiative on Digital Health through the Smart Africa Secretariat.  In December 2019, the Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) leading to severe acute respiratory syndrome was first identified in China and spread to become a global pandemic.  This has caused stoppage of movement, curfews, lockdowns and adoption of measures to prevent the spread of the virus.  The Covid-19 pandemic has caused massive losses globally with Africa taking a hard hit on its tourism dependent economies, oil-exporting economies and other resource-intensive economies.

As the world moves to a post Covid-19 recovery, The Digital Health White Paper Initiative seeks to bring awareness that digital health technologies can contribute to Africa post Covid-19 recovery journey. Africa needs to stimulate intra-African travel to ensure a quicker recovery as trade and tourism moves to picking back up in Africa through domestic and regional trade and tourism. The pandemic has amplified calls for digital health initiatives. This requires all the actors in the digital health value chain from governments to start-ups/private sector to civil society to work together to ensure safe trade and travel and re-open African economies.

The objective therefore, is to inform, raise interest, and propose solutions as a demonstration of what is possible in digital health in Africa.

1.Tasks to be performed by the contractor

The overall objective for the consultancy is to to prepare a white paper that will assist governments to be informed, interested and ready to accelerate the use and adoption of digital health technologies in Africa, providing information on milestones achieved, initial results and expected impacts, focused mainly on the technology in Africa.

The contractor is responsible for providing the following services:

Output 1: Conduct a desktop study on the overall landscape of digital health in Africa. Specifically:

• Identify the challenges facing health systems in African countries and how they have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Highlight the role of digital health in managing Covid-19 and other pandemics.
• Identify the major challenges faced by countries and other stakeholders in implementing digital health in relation to digital transformation and boosting socio-economic development.
• Benchmark other approaches (as seen in Europe, Asia, America, etc.) to Digital Health, outlining key lessons learnt.
• Showcase a list of existing Digital Health related national/country strategies, projects, digital solutions and best practices on the continent.

Output 2: Propose strategic actions, relevant policies and regulations, projects/programs around digital health and recommendations for African governments during and beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.

• Map out comprehensive Africa-wide digital health goals, objectives and indicators to achieve them. Draw up any linkages with the Smart Africa vision and mission towards digital transformation and boosting socio-economic development
• The Consultant shall formulate strategic actions for Smart Africa’s member states interventions in digital health in line with the Single Digital Market objective.  This could potentially include, but not limited to, continent/regional level strategies, projects, programs on digital health.
• The consultant shall make a strong case for digital health policies and programs and identify short-, mid- and long-term projects/initiatives that could be implemented on the continent. Potential quick wins should also be identified to assess the possibility for immediate implementation especially in light of the current Covid-19 pandemic.

The following deliverables should be submitted: 

1. Preliminary report including the methodology adopted by the Consultant and the proposed work plan for the execution of the assignment with the dates of the deliverables;
2. Landscape assessment report for the digital health landscape in Africa which includes challenges, best practices, digital health and the Covid-19 pandemic.
3. In depth report on the strategic actions and recommendations for African governments during and beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.
4. Validation meetings (Seminars and workshops) for the digital health whitepaper;
5. Final Digital Health White paper and dissemination of the White paper to stakeholders.

The Consultant shall submit each final report in fifteen (15) paper copies and all working documents in soft copies, editable files (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), in both French and English.

Certain milestones, as laid out in the table below, are to be achieved by certain dates during the contract term, and at particular locations:

The selected Consulting Firm must carry out the project within three (3) months from the project start date.

Period of assignment: From 15.08.2021 until 15.11.2021.

2.Concept

In the offer, the contractor  is required to show how the objectives defined in Chapter 2 are to be achieved, if applicable under consideration of further specific method-related requirements (technical-methodological concept). In addition, the contractor  must describe the project management system for service provision.

Technical-methodological concept

Strategy: The contractor  is required to consider the tasks to be performed with reference to the objectives of the services put out to compete (see Chapter 1). Following this, the contractor  presents and justifies the strategy with which it intends to provide the services for which it is responsible (see Chapter 2).

The contractor  is required to present the actors relevant for the services for which it is responsible and describe the cooperation with them.

The contractor  is required to present and explain its approach to steering the measures with the project partners and its contribution to the results-based monitoring system.

The contractor  is required to describe the key processes for the services for which it is responsible and create a schedule that describes how the services according to Chapter 2 are to be provided. In particular, the contractor  is required to describe the necessary work steps and, if applicable, take account of the milestones and contributions of other actors in accordance with Chapter 2.

The contractor  is required to describe its contribution to knowledge management for the partner and GIZ and promote scaling-up effects (learning and innovation).

Other specific requirements

The mission will be carried out by the Consultant in collaboration with the Smart Africa Secretariat and two (2) multisectoral teams composed of senior government officials to be made available by the Ministry in charge of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) or the Government Agency in charge of the Development of Smart Cities of each selected member country.

Also, the Consultant’s methodological approach will consist of:

• Conduct a literature/desktop review to gain a good understanding of Africa’s digital health landscape .
• Write an interim report for each planned report;
• Collect comments on each draft report and make consequential revisions in the final version;
• Assume primary responsibility for drafting the strategy and work with the designated staff by each Ministry or the Government Agency in charge ICT and Health
• Support from Smart Africa Secretariat for exchanges with countries and the collection of documents for the analysis of the existing situation;
• The Consulting Firm will do a final document that will provide strategic actions/recommendations and implementation plans on digital health strategies/policies/plans in Africa.  The white paper based on this study will also make a strong case for a digital health flagship for Smart Africa.  The recommendations will be done for African governments, including policy and decision makers.

Project management of the contractor

The contractor  is required to explain its approach for coordination with the GIZ project.

• The contractor is responsible for selecting, preparing, training and steering the experts (international and national, short and long term) assigned to perform the advisory tasks.
• The contractor makes available equipment and supplies (consumables) and assumes the associated operating and administrative costs.
• The contractor manages costs and expenditures, accounting processes and invoicing in line with the requirements of GIZ.

The contractor reports regularly to GIZ in accordance with the AVB of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH from 2018

The contractor  is required to draw up a personnel assignment plan with explanatory notes that lists all the experts proposed in the offer; the plan includes information on assignment dates (duration and expert days) and locations of the individual members of the team complete with the allocation of work steps as set out in the schedule.

The contractor  is required to explain its approach for coordination with the GIZ project.

3.Personnel concept

The contractor  is required to provide personnel who are suited to filling the positions described, on the basis of their CVs, the range of tasks involved and the required qualifications.

The below specified qualifications represent the requirements to reach the maximum number of points.

Team leader

Tasks of the team leader

• Overall responsibility for the advisory packages of the contractor (quality and deadlines)
• Coordinating and ensuring communication with GIZ, partners and others involved in the project
• Personnel management, in particular identifying the need for short-term assignments within the available budget, as well as planning and steering assignments and supporting local and international short-term experts
• Regular reporting in accordance with deadlines

Qualifications of the team leader

• Education/training (2.1.1): A minimum of a master’s degree in computer engineering, ICT, development economics or studies or related fields or relevant experience in lieu of an advanced degree; with a minimum of 15 years’ experience in project management of global, large and senior teams with a focus on technology and user centric demand delivery in a public context;
• Language (2.1.2): Must be fluent in both written and spoken English Language. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage
• General professional experience (2.1.3): 10 years of professional experience as a Project Manager of global, large and senior teams with a focus on technology and user centric demand delivery in a public context.
• Specific professional experience (2.1.4): 10 years of proven experience in the digital health, public digital programs/projects in government. Experience with Africa governments is an added advantage.
• Leadership/management experience (2.1.5): 6 years of management/leadership experience as project team leader or manager in a company
• Regional experience (2.1.6): 5 years of experience in projects in Africa.
• Development Cooperation (DC) experience (2.1.7): 10 years of experience in DC projects
• Other (2.1.8): Participated in at least three similar projects

Expert 1: IT expert with a focus on Digital Health

Tasks of expert 1

• Responsible of the digital health aspects of the white paper.
• Responsible for tasks and providing inputs and recommendations regarding digital health
• Responsible and attend to any other procedure, legal or regulatory tasks that may come up in the course of this assignment.

Qualifications of expert 1

• Education/training (2.2.1): University qualification (bachelor’s degree) in Science or Engineering, specialized in Urban Planning or equivalent with 5 years of successful experience in urban planning, particularly for sustainable and smart cities;
• Language (2.2.2): Must be fluent in both written and spoken English Language. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage
• General professional experience (2.2.3): 5 years of successful experience in urban planning
• Specific professional experience (2.2.4): Experience in projects regarding sustainability and smart cities
• Leadership/management experience (2.2.5): n/a
• Regional experience (2.2.6): n/a
• Development Cooperation (DC) experience (2.2.7): n/a
• Other (2.2.8): Participated in at least three similar projects.

Expert 2: Socio-economist expert

Tasks of expert 2

• Responsible for the digital transformation aspect of the white paper including elaboration of digital health goals/objectives/indicators of the white paper
• Responsible for the elaboration of the digital health strategic actions, relevant policies and programs that will lead to digital transformation in the health sector.
• Responsible and attend to any other assignment activity, procedure, legal or regulatory tasks that may come up in the course of this assignment.

Qualifications of expert 2

• Education/training (2.3.1): University qualification of a Master’s degree in public policy and administration, development economics/ studies, sociology or any equivalent discipline with focus on digital innovation, digital transformation and digital policy.
• Language (2.3.2): Must be fluent in both written and spoken English Language. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage
• General professional experience (2.3.3): 5 years of proven experience in the implementation of information systems in public and private administrations as well as
• Specific professional experience (2.3.4): 5 year’s experience in implementing digital policy and programs in the public sector especially in the African countries
• Leadership/management experience (2.3.5): n/a
• Regional experience (2.3.6): n/a
• Development Cooperation (DC) experience (2.3.7): n/a
• Other (2.3.8): Participated in at least three similar projects.

Soft skills of team members

In addition to their specialist qualifications, the following qualifications are required of team members:

• Team skills
• Initiative
• Communication skills
• Sociocultural competence
• Efficient, partner- and client-focused working methods
• Interdisciplinary thinking

4.Costing requirements

Assignment of personnel

Team leader:  Assignment in country of consultants’ residence for 25 expert days

Expert 1:         Assignment in country of consultants’ residence for 25 expert days

Expert 2:         Assignment in country of consultants’ residence for 10 expert days

Travel

The assignment is based in Kigali. Due to the ongoing global pandemic and the established modus operandi of mobile working, the assignment does not require travelling to Kigali and/or abroad. Should the contractor  deem travel necessary, s/he is required to calculate the travel by the specified experts and the experts it has proposed based on the places of performance stipulated in point 2 and 4 and lists the expenses separately by daily allowance, accommodation expenses, flight costs and other travel expenses.

5.Inputs of GIZ or other actors

GIZ and Smart Africa Secretariat are expected to make the following available:

• Transportation on site with own project vehicle – should travel occur
• Smart Africa will make a Project Manager available to co-steer the project overview and serve as a focal point to reach out to during the assignment.
• Introductions to relevant stakeholders and the working group.

6.Submission and evaluation of EoI

Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386398

EoI will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Company or individual profile,
• Relevant experience,
• Company strategies to assure agility, flexibility and responsiveness,
• Personnel and,
• Financial offer.

 The EoI should contain the following:

For Technical Proposal:

The structure of the offer must correspond to the structure of the ToRs. In particular, the detailed structure of the concept (Chapter 2) is to be organised in accordance with the positively weighted criteria in the assessment grid (not with zero). It must be legible (font size 11 or larger) and clearly formulated. The offer is drawn up in English (language).

The complete offer shall not exceed 10 pages (excluding CVs).

The CVs of the personnel proposed in accordance with Chapter 4 of the ToRs must be submitted using the format specified in the terms and conditions for application. The CVs shall not exceed 4 pages. The CVs must clearly show the position and job the proposed person held in the reference project and for how long.

If one of the maximum page lengths is exceeded, the content appearing after the cut-off point will not be included in the assessment.

• Company or business registration certificate
• References and recommendations of similar works executed by the company in Rwanda or elsewhere outside of Rwanda.
• VAT registration certificate if available
• Latest tax clearance certificate

For the Financial Proposal:

The Financial Proposal indicates the contract price, supported by a breakdown of consultancy fee per day + all other costs such us (if needed) daily allowance, accommodation expenses. The cost must be in RWF and VAT excluded.

Please submit electronically your EoI (technical & Financial offer)  in 2 separated PDF files  to this email: RW_Quotation@giz.de until latest Friday 30 July 2021 at 4:00 pm,

 Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386398

Hard copies are not allowed this time

GIZ reserves all rights

3. (EoI)-Empowering Tech Start-ups to Rollout & Scale Digital Solutions in Rwanda

EXPRESSION of INTEREST (EoI) Empowering Tech Start-ups to Rollout & Scale Digital Solutions in Rwanda

 Contract identification number: 83386393

Introduction

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a federally owned international cooperation enterprise for sustainable development with worldwide operations. GIZ has worked in Rwanda for over 30 years. The primary objectives between the Government of Rwanda and the Federal Republic of Germany are poverty reduction and promotion of sustainable development. To achieve these objectives, GIZ Rwanda is active in the sectors of Decentralization and Good Governance, Economic Development and Employment Promotion, Energy and ICT (Information and Communications Technology).

1.    Background information and brief description of the project
1.1     Digital Entrepreneurship

Digital entrepreneurship is the driver of digital change in Africa. Entrepreneurs have the potential to modernise the economies and societies of their countries, to find innovative solutions to development problems, and to create new perspectives and employment opportunities. Open Innovation approaches support start-ups to tap into a wide range of opportunities for learning and growth.

Nevertheless, many young technology start-ups from Sub-Saharan Africa are still unable to make the leap to international market maturity. There is a lack of access to capital, customers, suitable personnel, and digital infrastructure. To be successful, entrepreneurs need a functioning “entrepreneurial ecosystem” consisting of reference customers, investors, funding agencies and training partners. However, many ecosystems are fragmentary, and tech start-ups lack important contacts, access to (additional) financing and opportunities for further development.

1.2  Make-IT in Africa

GIZ implements the project Make-IT in Africa on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) in Ghana and Rwanda. It is part of the BMZ initiative “Digital Africa” and aims to improve the entrepreneurial ecosystems in Africa’s the digital economy. www.make-it-initiative.org

Therefore, Make-IT systemically supports the tech entrepreneurship ecosystem on three levels:

i.  Micro level – start-ups: the goal is to align the business models of start-ups with market conditions and to make them ready for the future by strengthening the specialised and market-oriented capacities and competences within the start-ups.

ii.  Meso level – Intermediaries: Make-IT in Africa supports intermediaries in providing start-ups and other ecosystem actors a high-quality service that is financially sustainable and independent of donor funding. This is done by promoting the development of networks (e.g., investor networks) and to link national actors with pan-African counterparts.

iii. Macro level – Political framework conditions: the aim is to support the development of methods and instrument

1.3. Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development (DSSD)

On behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, implemented by GIZ, the “Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development (DSSD)” project advises Rwandan institutions on the implementation of the Smart Rwanda Master Plan (2016-2020) and its priority projects. By building on digital skills in the sector ministries as well as developing and implementing ICT sector strategies (for the implementation of the Smart Rwanda Master Plan), the project contributes to the establishment of digital transformation in other sectors.

1.4. The Open Innovation Programme

The Open Innovation Program (OIP) is a joint activity from the Make-IT in Africa and the DSSD project. Through a close collaboration with start-ups and other stakeholders, Make-IT Rwanda and DSSD align their core activities (promoting entrepreneurship and solutions for digital transformation respectively) to empower and accelerate start-ups to scale their solutions across the country and to regional or international markets. Make-IT Rwanda and DSSD plan to implement the OIP to support 15 start-ups to get their innovations to the market by promoting a collaborative approach between start-ups and their key partners — focusing on numerous marketplace challenges and solving them together. The Open Innovation Programme will target the three main sectors: smart cities, agriculture, and education. The programme will be implemented in six months.

1.5 Approach of the OIP

The Open Innovation Programme embraces a problem-centric approach whereby innovations are challenged to respond to the painful needs of the clients. In return, not only they gain a product market fit but also, they get ready to scale their markets. At the heart of OIP, there is collaboration; this is built on “the customer has the answers” philosophy – whereby innovators are encouraged to meet potential clients with the painful need of the solution, and they build based on the multiple feedbacks they received. To do that, innovators also need a close collaboration with their key suppliers as well as the distribution channel owners. The innovations get validated by the market and are ready to scale.

This is done in four dimensions process.

1. The problem definition: defining the key economic challenges that start-ups could realistically solve. This is at the heart of the Open Innovation Programme. Inputs, processes, and outputs must be geared towards solving some specific problems in the society.
2. Entrepreneurial readiness: to support innovator acquire an entrepreneurial mindset, attitude, and character.
3. Business model validation: assessing the core value proposition, supply chain and revenue structure while identifying the right target customers & investors.
4. Technical support: To provide the hands-on market-oriented technical support related to their product, markets, administrative assistance, and investments.

The Open Innovation approach seeks to create more collaboration across various players in the innovation ecosystem in Rwanda. By adopting agile practices including building, seeking market feedback, and measuring progress at the early stage, the innovations have higher chances to get to the market successfully. The entire process objects to transforming the innovations into market-ready and scalable products and services. Throughout the OIP process, the programme defines, identifies, engages, and collaborates with the key stakeholders. They are selected based on relevance to getting innovations to the marketplace successfully; the main ones are the clients, suppliers, and distribution channels.

2.    Objective of services to be provided.

This consultancy assignment seeks to design and implement the Open Innovation Program to support tech-innovators to upgrade their entrepreneurial acumen, get their business model validated and their products to the markets, by following an open innovation approach. It will engage multiple stakeholders, the start-ups but also their potential clients, suppliers, and distribution channel partners. Through rolling out the products/services & gaining visibility, the goal is to scale the start-ups’ market base.

3.    Scope of the contract (deliverables)

The contractor is required to provide the following services in close collaboration with Make-IT in Africa:

Design of the programme

• Ideate and design the programme.
• Define the biggest problems start-ups could tackle in the areas of Smart Cities, Agritech and EdTech.
• Design the engagement processes of participants into the program including potential clients, suppliers, and distribution channels. The engagement activities will be based on the inputs from GIZ.
• Design the recruitment of 15 high-potential start-ups with promising products or services.
• Design the transformation process following the best lean / agile practices.
• Design an assessment framework (e.g., business intelligence and KPIs that takes stock of each participant’s progress and gaps, and according to which progress can be measured. The assessment must adopt a holistic framework.

Implementation of the programme

 1.    Problem Setting and recruitment.

The consultant will define the main problem the start-ups will tackle. The problem must be cross cutting the fields of smart cities, agriculture, and education, important, urgent to handle and clear to both the start-ups and potential clients (who bear the pain).

Recruitment

• Through a collaboration between Make-IT and DSSD, the contractor will recruit participating start-ups through an open call for applications. This involves creating an online call for applications, shortlisting and selecting the final candidates. Start-ups must at least own a tech or tech-enabled minimum viable product. The product or service must present a positive social or environmental impact.
• Through various networks, the consultant will recruit various stakeholders willing to engage with start-ups products and/or services. Those include potential clients, potential suppliers, and partners with distribution channels. This will be implemented in a non-linear and agile process. Start-ups and interested stakeholders must belong in the fields of Smart Cities, Agritech and EdTech.

 2.    Entrepreneurial readiness 

Support start-ups to upgrade their entrepreneurial acumen focusing on soft skills: leadership, teamwork, communication, problem solving and time management.

• Design and implement a mentorship programme building personal and long-term business relationships with the start-ups and mentors. Each start-up will receive at least 16 hours of mentorship throughout the programme.
• Setup various bi-weekly public inspirational talks and/or speaker series to motivate, educate and inspire start-ups to strive to excel. A total of 8 talks will be delivered.
• Organise monthly industry-focused group case studies focusing on the common problems and key solutions available. A total of 4 case studies will be carried out.

 3.    The business model validation

Support start-ups to identify the best customer segments to target by formulating an excellent value proposition, establishing supply chain structures, and developing a revenue strategy. This will follow the Open Innovation approach whereby innovators are strongly encouraged to interact with their potential clients and other potential stakeholders regularly and repetitively.

• Identify and design the learning needs – content structure and methodology to use.
• Identify extra support needs of start-ups – details, strategies and tactics to fill the gaps.
• Based on the Open Innovation approach, develop a learning curriculum incorporating all the identified learning needs – content and methodology.
• Based on the curriculum, run series of experiential-learning workshops focusing on business model validation, marketing & sales and finance & investments. A total budget of 80hours will be allocated to all the beneficiary participants.
• Align the workshops with a highly customised one-on-one business coaching that focuses on business strategy (refining their mission and vision and performance measurement referring on the venture development plans). Each start-up will receive at least 6 hours of coaching throughout the programme.
• Design customized venture development plans for each participating team. The goal is to get the products or services rollout successfully on the market and get visibility.

4.    Technical support

Support the start-ups to get additional technical services building their capabilities to successfully rollout the products or services to the market.

• Support the start-ups to improve the product. Using key measurements, move the product(s) or service(s) from a minimum viable market to at least a minimum marketable product. This will be done through providing technical mentorship, supporting start-ups to get subsidised technical services through the DTC and connect the start-ups to the relevant technical networks. This will be implemented by closely following the Open Innovation best practices, interacting with all the relevant stakeholders throughout the process. This activity will consume a budget of 45 hours for all the products supported by OIP.
• Provision of administrative services to the qualifying start-ups including the legal and accounting services. A total budget of 40 hours will be allocated to all start-up qualifying for the services.
• Link start-ups with relevant investors through customised meetings and introductions and a demo day. At least 7 investor-start-up meetups will take place before the end of the programme.
• Support start-ups to get their products to the market. This could be done through sponsorship to trade fairs, networking sessions and access to offline or online marketplaces. At least 7 start-ups will get opportunities to get their products to the market.

Monitoring 

1.    Monitoring of activities & start-ups progress

• Track the start-ups and stakeholders’ participations in the defined activities.
• Based on the designed assessment framework, monitor each start-up’s progress and update the database on a weekly basis.
• Track the progress of the stakeholders towards getting the desired products.
• Provide the progress report every month and check-in.
• Conduct the baseline and an end-line surveys at the beginning and closure (6 months later) of the project based on Make-IT M&E framework.

2.    Monitoring of impact for activities 

Provide a detailed report on the project impact, key monitoring material will be shared by GIZ. The report must also include a blueprint for implementing future Open Innovation Programmes based on the approach used and learnings acquired.

 Logistics

• All logistics regarding the conduct of workshops and one-on-one meetings are handled and paid for by GIZ.
• All catering costs are handled and covered by GIZ.
• All travel expenses and arrangements caused for consultancy or participants must be covered by the consultancy.

Communications

The consulting firm will oversee various communications tasks including but not limited to:

• Developing the corporate branding for the Open Innovation Programme.
• Develop and implement an awareness campaign for the Call for Applications, including but not limited to a communications plan and kit, a social media campaign (including an ad campaign if required), direct messaging, online banners, organisation of online webinars (i.e. with Q&As), newsletter texts, press work, etc.
• Communicative accompaniment of the programme (Developing of Social Media Templates i.e., introduction of the start-ups, press work, newsletter texts)
• Organise and promote the demo day.
• Organise seminars and promoting the best practices around Open Innovation approaches, context, tools, and benefits.
• Produce and publish a publicly accessible final report documenting cases and success stories around Open Innovation Programme.

4.    Specification of inputs

Assignment of personnel

5.    Provisional schedule 

The programme is scheduled to be implemented from August 2021 to February 2022.

Contract Start                                                                         02. August 2021

 Programme preparation

Design of the programme                                                     13. August 2021

Call for applications                                                                27. August 2021

Recruitment of participants                                                  03. September 2021

 Implementation

Entrepreneurial readiness activities                                    14. January 2022

Business model validation activities                                    14. January 2022

Technical support activities                                                   11. February 2022

 Monitoring mentoring relationship

Weekly monitoring                                                                 06. September 2021

Interim report                                                                         21. November 2021

Overall monitoring and evaluation                                      18. February 2022

Final report                                                                              25. February 2022

Contract ends                                                              28. February 2022

6.    Technical assessment 

The application of the contractor will be assessed on the following criteria:

Concept and work plan:

• Interpretation of objectives
• Strategy (technical concept/alternative concepts)
• A proposed action-oriented curriculum design.
• Strategy to provide technical support to startups.
• Strategy to engage the stakeholders.
• Strategy to harvest the key learnings and dissemination.
• Implementation methods: Management of processes, Cooperation
• Proven experience in implementing business incubation programs in Rwanda.
• Proven experience in supporting entrepreneurs to scale their markets.
• Work schedule and time schedule
• Monitoring and evaluation concept

Qualification of proposed staff:

Project Manager (1 staff)

• General qualification: Private sector development, entrepreneurship.
• Education: Master’s degree in business administration, entrepreneurship or other related fields.
• Specific qualification: Minimum 5 years of experience in business consulting services and a proven project management experience.
• Good English writing skills
• Experience: Minimum 5 years in delivering business coaching to startups in Rwanda. Experience with Strategy consulting is preferred.
• Other: Good English writing skills.

Assistant Project Manager (1 staff)

• General qualification: Private sector development, entrepreneurship
• Specific qualification: Minimum 5 years of experience in business support programmes in Rwanda.

• Good English writing skills
• Experience: Minimum 5 years in delivering business coaching to startups. Experience with finance and marketing consulting is preferred.
• Other: Good English writing skills.

Expert pool 1 (3 staffs)

• General qualification: Private sector development, entrepreneurship, or general business consulting.
• Specific qualification: Minimum 5 years’ experience in mentoring or coaching startups in Rwanda. Minimum 3 years’ experience in the fields of smart cities, AgriTech or EdTech.
• Good English writing skills.
• Additional experience: owning a startup or having worked in a startup environment for 5 years or more.

Expert pool 2 (1 staff)

• General qualification: Private sector development, entrepreneurship, or general business consulting.
• Specific qualification: Minimum 5 years’ experience working with private sector on legal and accounting activities in Rwanda. Minimum 1 year experience in working with startups or small and medium businesses.
• Good English writing skills.

7.    Submission and evaluation of EoI

Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386393

EoI will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Company or individual profile,
• Relevant experience,
• Company strategies to assure agility, flexibility and responsiveness,
• Personnel and,
• Financial offer.

 The EoI should contain the following:

For Technical Proposal:

• A Cover letter expressing interest in this assignment.
• The structure of the proposal must correspond to the structure of the EoI. In particular, the detailed structure of the concept.
• The complete technical proposal shall not exceed 10 pages (excluding CVs).

If the maximum page lengths is exceeded, the content appearing after the cut-off point will not be included in the assessment

• It should be formatted; font type ARIAL, fond size 11, the offer should be drawn up in English language.
• The CVs shall not exceed 4 pages.
• Company or business registration certificate
• References and recommendations of similar works executed by the company in Rwanda or elsewhere outside of Rwanda.
• VAT registration certificate if available
• Latest tax clearance certificate

For the Financial Proposal:

The Financial Proposal indicates the contract price, supported by a breakdown of consultancy fee per day + all other costs such us (if needed) daily allowance, accommodation expenses. The cost must be in RWF and VAT excluded.

Please submit electronically your EoI (technical & Financial offer)  in 2 separated PDF files  to this email: RW_Quotation@giz.de until latest Friday 30 July 2021 at 4:00 pm,

 Please indicate this assignment number in your submission email: 83386393

Hard copies are not allowed this time

GIZ reserves all rights

ABOUT THE COMPANY (EXCRAFT):

ExCraft is a pioneer brand in the export field in Egypt. It was founded in 2017 for distributing and marketing several kinds of high-quality FMCG products (Food, Beverage, Cosmetics, etc.) targeting hotels, modern trade and wholesale sectors.

ExCraft services cover companies in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Not only we export high quality products, but we also produce our own products to meet the needs of the wholesale, retail, and catering markets all over the world.

ExCraft is hiring Business Development manager!!!

Location: M. Peace Plaza -KN4 AV10-11th floor, Tower B Kigali, Rwanda.

Responsibilities:

• Achieving the Monthly target.
• Placing New Product in each Three Months.
• Managing the key account.
• Handling the Business Relation with the Exclusive Distributor.
• Handling all Business Relations tasks and making long term relationships with customers.
• Making weekly market research.
• Analyzing the market in term of products and compare them to the competitors.
• Following up the implementation of company sales plans.
• Expanding customer database in order to increase the sales revenue.
• Increasing the company profitability ratio.
• Preparing reports of Sales department timely and accurately to meet company and department requirements, policies and standards.
• Implementing approved departmental policies, processes, procedures so that work is carried out in a controlled manner.
• Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of systems, processes and practices.
• Handling all Department files.
• Executing all the required tasks according to the business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor Degree.
• More than 10 years of related experience especially in the FMCG field.
• Sales diploma or certificate is a must.
• Excellent English Language is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Ability to create effective plans and innovative reports.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Talented in closing deals.

How to apply

For applying, Please send your CV and other documents at “info@excraft.rw “ & CC “ careers@excraft.com.eg ” with subject “BDM-6JR” and mention the job title or inbox your updated resume.

The deadline: 15th August 2021

ABOUT THE COMPANY (EXCRAFT):

ExCraft is a pioneer brand in the export field in Egypt. It was founded in 2017 for distributing and marketing several kinds of high-quality FMCG products (Food, Beverage, Cosmetics, etc.) targeting hotels, modern trade and wholesale sectors.

ExCraft services cover companies in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Not only we export high quality products, but we also produce our own products to meet the needs of the wholesale, retail, and catering markets all over the world.

ExCraft is hiring Deputy Sales Manager!!!

Location: M. Peace Plaza -KN4 AV10-11th floor, Tower B Kigali, Rwanda.

Responsibilities:

• Achieving growth and hitting sales targets by successfully managing the sales team.
• Generating leads, creating Exclusive importers of Food products, and handling the exclusive distributors.
• Increasing the company profitability ratios.
• Discussing and developing promotional strategy and marketing activities with the top management.
• Drawing up clients contracts and developing the business relation with all customers.
• Making market visits to increase the clients’ database in order to increase the sales revenue.
• Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of systems, processes and practices.
• Having a good understanding of the businesses’ products or services and be able to advise others about them.
• Designing and implementing a strategic sales plan that expands the company’s customer base and ensures its strong presence.
• Continually assess current business distribution channels, develop and evaluate their performance, and managing conflict to ensure alignment with territory plans.
• Managing and supporting sales team to achieve sales targets by following up, coaching and training.
• Analyzing the market in terms of products and compare them to the competitors.
• Managing sales by developing a business plan that covers sales, revenue projections and expense controls
• Preparing reports of sales department timely and accurately; to meet company and department requirements, policies, and standards.
• Handling all sales files.
• Executing all the required tasks according to the business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor Degree.
• More than 8 years of related experience especially in the FMCG field.
• Sales diploma or certificate is a must.
• Excellent English Language is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Ability to create effective plans and innovative reports.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Talented in closing deals.

How to apply

For applying, Please send your CV and other documents at “info@excraft.rw “ & CC “ careers@excraft.com.eg ” with subject “DSM-5JR” and mention the job title or inbox your updated resume.

The deadline: 15th August 2021

1. Sales Executive

ABOUT THE COMPANY (EXCRAFT):

ExCraft is a pioneer brand in the export field in Egypt. It was founded in 2017 for distributing and marketing several kinds of high-quality FMCG products (Food, Beverage, Cosmetics, etc.) targeting hotels, modern trade and wholesale sectors.

ExCraft services cover companies in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Not only we export high quality products, but we also produce our own products to meet the needs of the wholesale, retail, and catering markets all over the world.

ExCraft is hiring Sales Executive!!!

Location: M. Peace Plaza -KN4 AV10-11th floor, Tower B Kigali, Rwanda.

Responsibilities:

• Opens new sales accounts.
• Achieving sales targets by establishing contacts and developing relationships with customers.
• Visits customers regularly.
• Completing the new customer registration form and deliver it to the accounting department.
• Creating sales order forms for new deals.
• Confirming the sales order with the sales manager.
• Coordinating with the accounting department to finalize all sales orders forms.
• Receiving and using the EBM Machine to complete all sales orders outside Kigali.
• Supporting accounting department in collection cycle.
• Preparing reports by collecting sales information and statistics and submitting it to direct Manager.
• Having a strong knowledge of the market, the solutions & services that the company can provide, and of the company’s competitors.
• Handling all Business Relations tasks with customers.
• Handling all sales files.
• Executing all the required tasks according to the business needs.

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor Degree.
• 2 – 4 years of related experience especially in the FMCG field.
• Sales diploma or certificate is a plus.
• Excellent English Language is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Talented in closing deals.

How to apply

 For applying, Please send your CV and other documents at “info@excraft.rw “ & CC “ careers@excraft.com.eg ” with subject “SE-3JR” and mention the job title or inbox your updated resume.

The deadline:15th August 2021

2. Deputy Sales Manager

ABOUT THE COMPANY (EXCRAFT):

ExCraft is a pioneer brand in the export field in Egypt. It was founded in 2017 for distributing and marketing several kinds of high-quality FMCG products (Food, Beverage, Cosmetics, etc.) targeting hotels, modern trade and wholesale sectors.

ExCraft services cover companies in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Not only we export high quality products, but we also produce our own products to meet the needs of the wholesale, retail, and catering markets all over the world.

ExCraft is hiring Deputy Sales Manager!!!

Location: M. Peace Plaza -KN4 AV10-11th floor, Tower B Kigali, Rwanda.

Responsibilities:

• Achieving growth and hitting sales targets by successfully managing the sales team.
• Generating leads, creating Exclusive importers of Food products, and handling the exclusive distributors.
• Increasing the company profitability ratios.
• Discussing and developing promotional strategy and marketing activities with the top management.
• Drawing up clients contracts and developing the business relation with all customers.
• Making market visits to increase the clients’ database in order to increase the sales revenue.
• Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of systems, processes and practices.
• Having a good understanding of the businesses’ products or services and be able to advise others about them.
• Designing and implementing a strategic sales plan that expands the company’s customer base and ensures its strong presence.
• Continually assess current business distribution channels, develop and evaluate their performance, and managing conflict to ensure alignment with territory plans.
• Managing and supporting sales team to achieve sales targets by following up, coaching and training.
• Analyzing the market in terms of products and compare them to the competitors.
• Managing sales by developing a business plan that covers sales, revenue projections and expense controls
• Preparing reports of sales department timely and accurately; to meet company and department requirements, policies, and standards.
• Handling all sales files.
• Executing all the required tasks according to the business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor Degree.
• More than 8 years of related experience especially in the FMCG field.
• Sales diploma or certificate is a must.
• Excellent English Language is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Ability to create effective plans and innovative reports.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Talented in closing deals.

How to apply

For applying, Please send your CV and other documents at “info@excraft.rw “ & CC “ careers@excraft.com.eg ” with subject “DSM-5JR” and mention the job title or inbox your updated resume.

The deadline: 15th August 2021

3. Business Development Manager

ABOUT THE COMPANY (EXCRAFT):

ExCraft is a pioneer brand in the export field in Egypt. It was founded in 2017 for distributing and marketing several kinds of high-quality FMCG products (Food, Beverage, Cosmetics, etc.) targeting hotels, modern trade and wholesale sectors.

ExCraft services cover companies in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. Not only we export high quality products, but we also produce our own products to meet the needs of the wholesale, retail, and catering markets all over the world.

ExCraft is hiring Business Development manager!!!

Location: M. Peace Plaza -KN4 AV10-11th floor, Tower B Kigali, Rwanda.

Responsibilities:

• Achieving the Monthly target.
• Placing New Product in each Three Months.
• Managing the key account.
• Handling the Business Relation with the Exclusive Distributor.
• Handling all Business Relations tasks and making long term relationships with customers.
• Making weekly market research.
• Analyzing the market in term of products and compare them to the competitors.
• Following up the implementation of company sales plans.
• Expanding customer database in order to increase the sales revenue.
• Increasing the company profitability ratio.
• Preparing reports of Sales department timely and accurately to meet company and department requirements, policies and standards.
• Implementing approved departmental policies, processes, procedures so that work is carried out in a controlled manner.
• Identifying opportunities for continuous improvement of systems, processes and practices.
• Handling all Department files.
• Executing all the required tasks according to the business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor Degree.
• More than 10 years of related experience especially in the FMCG field.
• Sales diploma or certificate is a must.
• Excellent English Language is a must.
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Ability to create effective plans and innovative reports.
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Talented in closing deals.

How to apply

For applying, Please send your CV and other documents at “info@excraft.rw “ & CC “ careers@excraft.com.eg ” with subject “BDM-6JR” and mention the job title or inbox your updated resume.

The deadline: 15th August 2021

1. OSC General Manager at Agriterra 

Vacancy for ambitious and knowledgeable professionalswith a passion for rural development
Project: Out-grower Service Company model for maize and soybean in Rwanda

We are Agriterra, a Dutch agri-agency that provides business development services to ambitious cooperatives and farmer organizations in developing and emerging economies. We assist them with advice and training by locally based business advisors and by deploying practitioners from the Dutch and international farmer organizations and (cooperative) companies. the so-called Agripool experts. We apply a three-track approach: we make cooperatives bankable and create real farmer-led companies, we improve extension services to farmer members, and we enhance farmer-government dialogues. Our advisory practice covers the full range of services on Management & Organization, Financial Management, Governance, Business Development and Lobby & Advocacy.

Agriterra works from local offices in a large number of countries. We work with self-steering teams, so our employees are challenged to use every bit of determination, creativity and strategy to achieve our compelling goals. Being a self-steering organization makes Agriterra an inspiring and challenging environment for professional growth and development.

Agriterra has an annual turnover of approximately 15 million euros, is ISO certified and has over 160 employees, both in the Netherlands and abroad. For more information, visit our website www.agriterra.org.

For a new and innovative initiative in the Rwandan maize and soybean value chains, specifically in Ngoma district, Agriterra Rwanda is looking for a general manager.

I.    Introduction of the project 

 The Out-grower Services Company (OSC) model for maize and soybean in Rwanda is a pilot project that seeks to increase the soybean and maize productivity and supplies of raw materials for animal feed production. Several factories have been set-up in Rwanda to process animal feeds, but they all lack sufficient availability of domestically produced, quality maize and soybean, forcing them to import their raw materials. Most maize and soybean producers have organized themselves into cooperatives, but the efficiency of the cooperatives often requires further professionalization and upscaling. Having seen the situation, ENABEL initiated the Out-grower Service Company model to provide solutions to challenges faced by both smallholder farmers and animal feed processors. In November 2020 Agriterra received a grant from Enabel to implement this project for a period of 3 years. The targeted number of direct beneficiaries is 3,000 maize and soybean farmers, located in the eastern province, Ngoma district. Experiences of the pilot in Ngoma will be shared with cooperatives in Gisagara and Kirehe districts in year 2 of the project.

II.    Background of the assignment

 The animal feeds industry is a critical component of the livestock sector in Rwanda. However, over the years the sector faced significant challenges in producing sufficient animal feed to support the development of its livestock sector. These challenges include:

i.  Low productivity of the livestock sector with farmers utilizing grasses, maize and legumes in feeding their animals which in many cases affects their productivity.
ii.  Poor quality (high aflatoxin levels) and limited availability of maize (energy source).
iii.  Lack of reliable domestic supply of Soya (plant protein) or alternatives.
iv.  High cost of imported animal feed ingredients which positions the price of feeds above farmers’ purchasing power.
v.  The limited availability of alternative sources of calcium.

To this end, Enabel funded the implementation of the Out-grower Service Company Model to be piloted by Agriterra in the maize and soybean sectors to increase the local supply of animal feeds ingredients, increase the production levels of animal feeds and improve the productivity in the livestock sector.

 Position: OSC General Manager

Location: Ngoma district, Eastern province

The General Manager (GM) will assist in the development and establishment of the Out-grower Services Company (OSC). Through the OSC, farmers will access patient finance, agronomic extension, production logistics, and block management services. The goal of the GM will be to ensure the OSC provides these services effectively, such that smallholder yields and quality are maximized while costs to the farmer are minimized through efficiencies and economies of scale.

Once underway, the GM will directly manage and oversee all day-to-day technical, financial, and administrative operations of the OSC. This includes direct oversight of all functional units including agronomic extension, finance and admin, management, and production logistics. In addition to developing and retaining a senior management and operational team, the GM will champion public relations efforts on the ground, and ensure farmers as well as local stakeholders understand the benefits of maize and soybeans, the specific offer of the OSC, their role as a member of the OSC. Rather than “manage from a desk,” it is expected that the GM will have a significant presence in the field, with daily engagement of both farmers and staff.

To ensure that the project objectives are achieved in full, the job holder will be required to establish a great cooperation and communication with OSC leadership and employees, liaise directly with project partners (i.e. Agriterra, Enabel, RAB and local government) and other key maize and soybean value chain partners (i.e. farm inputs suppliers, financial institutions, crop insurance companies, off takers and other services providers).

The GM will report to and collaborate with Agriterra, however will ultimately be held accountable to the OSC Board of Directors regarding performance and achievement of results. The recruited person will work under a consultancy contract while based in Ngoma District.

Duties

• Carry out day to day management of all operational, financial, and administrative matters of the OSC.
• Arrange professional input distribution, credit management, liquidity management, extension services, aggregation, post-harvest handling, sales and marketing of maize and soybean.
• Identify, develop, and build an effective field team, and manage the team according to a common vision for the smallholder development with clear performance KPIs.
• Engage with key stakeholders on the project including local government, farmers, and the animal feed companies, among others.
• Assist in the establishment of company policies and procedures and ensure statutory compliance and fiduciary control within all company matters.
• Participate in the development of annual workplans and budgets and manage against these to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of results.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annually reports to the board of the OSC explaining them in an understandable manner including Quantity of goods sold. Turnover realized, and Activities done.
• Engage with Agriterra and the Board of Directors as required.
• Facilitate the drafting of the reports to Enabel and to the district.
• Carry out other relevant tasks as assigned by Agriterra Rwanda.

 Your profile

The GM will possess a firm understanding of business management through significant private sector experience in an agriculture-based related industry (preferably maize and soybeans). He/she will be a dynamic and energetic individual that is able to work in a team environment while maintaining a strategic, yet commercial outlook and managing for results.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree required. MBA or advanced degree preferred, particularly in the areas of economics, agribusiness, finance, or a business-related field.
• Strong demonstrated management experience including personnel and financial management. Ability to lead, work independently, and oversee a portfolio of activities at the executive level with professionalism and integrity to ensure tasks are completed and the needs of the organization are met.
• At least 5 years senior management experience
• Proven capabilities in engaging and working with farmer cooperatives.
• Ability to gain the trust and confidence of all project stakeholders.
• Ability to think strategically, be open-minded and innovative, but with a strong commercial and practical focus.
• A very high level of integrity and honesty and a sense of responsibility. Ability to work effectively as part of a team. and
• A respectful and motivated attitude towards farmers and their organizations
• Good computer skills
• Able to work under pressure, live and travel in the countryside and provide outstanding results in limited time.
• Able to work in an innovative business model, with loyalty to farmers, cooperatives.
• A robust personality combined with the ability to work independently.
• Previous work experience in Rwanda, as well as fluency in English and Kinyarwanda is required.
• Knowledge of the OSC model is an advantage.

 Are you interested?

Are you interested in this position and do you fit the profile? Apply before the 31st of July 2021 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae and academic certificate in one PDF file, by sending an e-mail to rwanda@agriterra.org to the attention of Mr. Jasper Spikker, Agriterra Rwanda Country representative, with reference code ATRW-8706MG. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

2. OSC Accountant

Vacancy for ambitious and knowledgeable professionals  with a passion for rural development 

Project: Out-grower Service Company model for maize and soybean in Rwanda

We are Agriterra, a Dutch agri-agency that provides business development services to ambitious cooperatives and farmer organizations in developing and emerging economies. We assist them with advice and training by locally based business advisors and by deploying practitioners from the Dutch and international farmer organizations and (cooperative) companies; the so-called Agripool experts. We apply a three-track approach: we make cooperatives bankable and create real farmer-led companies, we improve extension services to farmer members, and we enhance farmer-government dialogues. Our advisory practice covers the full range of services on Management & Organization, Financial Management, Governance, Business Development and Lobby & Advocacy.

Agriterra works from local offices in a large number of countries. We work with self-steering teams, so our employees are challenged to use every bit of determination, creativity and strategy to achieve our compelling goals. Being a self-steering organization makes Agriterra an inspiring and challenging environment for professional growth and development.

Agriterra has an annual turnover of approximately 15 million euros, is ISO certified and has over 160 employees, both in the Netherlands and abroad. For more information, visit our website www.agriterra.org.
For a new and innovative initiative in the Rwandan maize and soybean value chains, specifically in Ngoma district, Agriterra Rwanda is looking for an accountant.

I. Introduction of the project 

 The Out-grower Service Company (OSC) model for maize and soybean in Rwanda is a pilot project that seeks to increase the soybean and maize productivity and supplies of raw materials for animal feed production. Several factories have been set-up in Rwanda to process animal feeds, but they all lack sufficient availability of domestic quality maize and soybean, forcing them to import their raw materials. Most maize and soybean producers have organized themselves into cooperatives, but the efficiency of the cooperatives often requires further professionalization and upscaling. Having seen the situation, Enabel initiated the Out-grower Service Company model to provide solutions to challenges faced by both smallholder farmers and animal feed processors. In November 2020 Agriterra received a grant from Enabel to implement this project for a period of 3 years. The targeted number of direct beneficiaries is 3,000 maize and soybean farmers, located in the eastern province, Ngoma district. Experiences of the pilot in Ngoma will be shared with cooperatives in Gisagara and Kirehe districts in year 2 of the project.

II.    Background of the assignment

 The animal feeds industry is a critical component of the livestock sector in Rwanda. However, over the years the sector faced significant challenges in producing sufficient animal feed to support the development of its livestock sector. These challenges include:

i.  Low productivity of the livestock sector with farmers utilizing grasses, maize and legumes in feeding their animals which in many cases affects their productivity.
ii.  Poor quality (high aflatoxin levels) and limited availability of maize (energy source).
iii. Lack of reliable domestic supply of Soya (plant protein) or alternatives.
iv. High cost of imported animal feed ingredients which positions the price of feeds above farmers’ purchasing power.
v. The limited availability of alternative sources of calcium.

To this end, Enabel funded the implementation of the Out-grower Service Company Model to be piloted by Agriterra in the maize and soybean sectors to increase the local supply of animal feeds ingredients, increase the production levels of animal feeds and improve the productivity in the livestock sector.

Position: OSC Accountant

Location: Ngoma district, Eastern province

As an accountant, you will be based in the OSC office in Ngoma and will support the implementation of the Out-growers services company model in the maize and soybean value chains. The accountant position requires an experienced person with multi-annual experience in cooperative financial administration, especially in the maize/soy sector, with a high degree of independence, integrity and problem-solving skills. To ensure that the project objectives are achieved in full, the job holder will be required to establish a great cooperation and communication with OSC staff on the field, liaise directly with project partners (i.e.Enabel, RAB and local government) and other key maize and soybean value chain partners (farm inputs suppliers, financial institutions, crop insurance companies, off takers and other services providers).

 Duties

• Compile and analyze financial information prepare financial statements including monthly and annual accounts and ensure compliance with financial rules and regulations.
• Ensure financial records are maintained in compliance with accepted policies and procedures.
• Review entries and correct errors and inconsistencies in financial entries, documents and reports.
• Determine proper handling of financial transactions and approve transactions within designated limits.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and annually financial reports to the Manager and the board of the OSC and explain them in an understandable manner.
• Prepare and submit tax declarations.
• Engage in and facilitate annual financial and tax audits as required by law
• Review of accounts payables and weekly check runs.
• Arrange reconciliations.
• Report, analyze and ensure integrity of all financial information.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports along with any other reports that may be required by the Senior Management or Board.
• Facilitate the drafting of reports to the Board of Directors, Enabel and the district.
• Carry out other relevant tasks as assigned by Agriterra Rwanda or the OSC manager.

Your profile

• A0 in accounting with at least 2 years of working experience in a related field.
• Knowledge of quick books or similar accounting software.
• A respectful and motivated attitude towards farmers and their organizations.
• Good computer skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Good interpersonal and writing skills in Kinyarwanda, French and English.
• Organizational skills.
• Ability to work in an innovative business model, with loyalty to farmers, cooperatives.
• Ability to work in Ngoma District.
• Strongly developed analytical abilities and commercial insight.
• A robust personality combined with the ability to work independently.
• Good command of Microsoft office.
• Knowledge of the OSC model is an advantage.

Are you interested?

Are you interested in this position and do you fit the profile? Apply before the 31st of July 2021 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae and academic certificate in one PDF file, by sending an e-mail to rwanda@agriterra.org to the attention of Mr. Jasper Spikker, Agriterra Rwanda Country representative, with reference code ATRW-8706ACC. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Vacancy for ambitious and knowledgeable professionalswith a passion for rural development
Project: Out-grower Service Company model for maize and soybean in Rwanda

We are Agriterra, a Dutch agri-agency that provides business development services to ambitious cooperatives and farmer organizations in developing and emerging economies. We assist them with advice and training by locally based business advisors and by deploying practitioners from the Dutch and international farmer organizations and (cooperative) companies. the so-called Agripool experts. We apply a three-track approach: we make cooperatives bankable and create real farmer-led companies, we improve extension services to farmer members, and we enhance farmer-government dialogues. Our advisory practice covers the full range of services on Management & Organization, Financial Management, Governance, Business Development and Lobby & Advocacy.

Agriterra works from local offices in a large number of countries. We work with self-steering teams, so our employees are challenged to use every bit of determination, creativity and strategy to achieve our compelling goals. Being a self-steering organization makes Agriterra an inspiring and challenging environment for professional growth and development.

Agriterra has an annual turnover of approximately 15 million euros, is ISO certified and has over 160 employees, both in the Netherlands and abroad. For more information, visit our website www.agriterra.org.

For a new and innovative initiative in the Rwandan maize and soybean value chains, specifically in Ngoma district, Agriterra Rwanda is looking for a general manager.

I.    Introduction of the project 

 The Out-grower Services Company (OSC) model for maize and soybean in Rwanda is a pilot project that seeks to increase the soybean and maize productivity and supplies of raw materials for animal feed production. Several factories have been set-up in Rwanda to process animal feeds, but they all lack sufficient availability of domestically produced, quality maize and soybean, forcing them to import their raw materials. Most maize and soybean producers have organized themselves into cooperatives, but the efficiency of the cooperatives often requires further professionalization and upscaling. Having seen the situation, ENABEL initiated the Out-grower Service Company model to provide solutions to challenges faced by both smallholder farmers and animal feed processors. In November 2020 Agriterra received a grant from Enabel to implement this project for a period of 3 years. The targeted number of direct beneficiaries is 3,000 maize and soybean farmers, located in the eastern province, Ngoma district. Experiences of the pilot in Ngoma will be shared with cooperatives in Gisagara and Kirehe districts in year 2 of the project.

II.    Background of the assignment

 The animal feeds industry is a critical component of the livestock sector in Rwanda. However, over the years the sector faced significant challenges in producing sufficient animal feed to support the development of its livestock sector. These challenges include:

i.  Low productivity of the livestock sector with farmers utilizing grasses, maize and legumes in feeding their animals which in many cases affects their productivity.
ii.  Poor quality (high aflatoxin levels) and limited availability of maize (energy source).
iii.  Lack of reliable domestic supply of Soya (plant protein) or alternatives.
iv.  High cost of imported animal feed ingredients which positions the price of feeds above farmers’ purchasing power.
v.  The limited availability of alternative sources of calcium.

To this end, Enabel funded the implementation of the Out-grower Service Company Model to be piloted by Agriterra in the maize and soybean sectors to increase the local supply of animal feeds ingredients, increase the production levels of animal feeds and improve the productivity in the livestock sector.

 Position: OSC General Manager

Location: Ngoma district, Eastern province

The General Manager (GM) will assist in the development and establishment of the Out-grower Services Company (OSC). Through the OSC, farmers will access patient finance, agronomic extension, production logistics, and block management services. The goal of the GM will be to ensure the OSC provides these services effectively, such that smallholder yields and quality are maximized while costs to the farmer are minimized through efficiencies and economies of scale.

Once underway, the GM will directly manage and oversee all day-to-day technical, financial, and administrative operations of the OSC. This includes direct oversight of all functional units including agronomic extension, finance and admin, management, and production logistics. In addition to developing and retaining a senior management and operational team, the GM will champion public relations efforts on the ground, and ensure farmers as well as local stakeholders understand the benefits of maize and soybeans, the specific offer of the OSC, their role as a member of the OSC. Rather than “manage from a desk,” it is expected that the GM will have a significant presence in the field, with daily engagement of both farmers and staff.

To ensure that the project objectives are achieved in full, the job holder will be required to establish a great cooperation and communication with OSC leadership and employees, liaise directly with project partners (i.e. Agriterra, Enabel, RAB and local government) and other key maize and soybean value chain partners (i.e. farm inputs suppliers, financial institutions, crop insurance companies, off takers and other services providers).

The GM will report to and collaborate with Agriterra, however will ultimately be held accountable to the OSC Board of Directors regarding performance and achievement of results. The recruited person will work under a consultancy contract while based in Ngoma District.

Duties

• Carry out day to day management of all operational, financial, and administrative matters of the OSC.
• Arrange professional input distribution, credit management, liquidity management, extension services, aggregation, post-harvest handling, sales and marketing of maize and soybean.
• Identify, develop, and build an effective field team, and manage the team according to a common vision for the smallholder development with clear performance KPIs.
• Engage with key stakeholders on the project including local government, farmers, and the animal feed companies, among others.
• Assist in the establishment of company policies and procedures and ensure statutory compliance and fiduciary control within all company matters.
• Participate in the development of annual workplans and budgets and manage against these to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of results.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annually reports to the board of the OSC explaining them in an understandable manner including Quantity of goods sold. Turnover realized, and Activities done.
• Engage with Agriterra and the Board of Directors as required.
• Facilitate the drafting of the reports to Enabel and to the district.
• Carry out other relevant tasks as assigned by Agriterra Rwanda.

 Your profile

The GM will possess a firm understanding of business management through significant private sector experience in an agriculture-based related industry (preferably maize and soybeans). He/she will be a dynamic and energetic individual that is able to work in a team environment while maintaining a strategic, yet commercial outlook and managing for results.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree required. MBA or advanced degree preferred, particularly in the areas of economics, agribusiness, finance, or a business-related field.
• Strong demonstrated management experience including personnel and financial management. Ability to lead, work independently, and oversee a portfolio of activities at the executive level with professionalism and integrity to ensure tasks are completed and the needs of the organization are met.
• At least 5 years senior management experience
• Proven capabilities in engaging and working with farmer cooperatives.
• Ability to gain the trust and confidence of all project stakeholders.
• Ability to think strategically, be open-minded and innovative, but with a strong commercial and practical focus.
• A very high level of integrity and honesty and a sense of responsibility. Ability to work effectively as part of a team. and
• A respectful and motivated attitude towards farmers and their organizations
• Good computer skills
• Able to work under pressure, live and travel in the countryside and provide outstanding results in limited time.
• Able to work in an innovative business model, with loyalty to farmers, cooperatives.
• A robust personality combined with the ability to work independently.
• Previous work experience in Rwanda, as well as fluency in English and Kinyarwanda is required.
• Knowledge of the OSC model is an advantage.

 Are you interested?

Are you interested in this position and do you fit the profile? Apply before the 31st of July 2021 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae and academic certificate in one PDF file, by sending an e-mail to rwanda@agriterra.org to the attention of Mr. Jasper Spikker, Agriterra Rwanda Country representative, with reference code ATRW-8706MG. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Vacancy for ambitious and knowledgeable professionals 

with a passion for rural development 

Project: Out-grower Service Company model for maize and soybean in Rwanda

We are Agriterra, a Dutch agri-agency that provides business development services to ambitious cooperatives and farmer organizations in developing and emerging economies. We assist them with advice and training by locally based business advisors and by deploying practitioners from the Dutch and international farmer organizations and (cooperative) companies; the so-called Agripool experts. We apply a three-track approach: we make cooperatives bankable and create real farmer-led companies, we improve extension services to farmer members, and we enhance farmer-government dialogues. Our advisory practice covers the full range of services on Management & Organization, Financial Management, Governance, Business Development and Lobby & Advocacy.

Agriterra works from local offices in a large number of countries. We work with self-steering teams, so our employees are challenged to use every bit of determination, creativity and strategy to achieve our compelling goals. Being a self-steering organization makes Agriterra an inspiring and challenging environment for professional growth and development.

Agriterra has an annual turnover of approximately 15 million euros, is ISO certified and has over 160 employees, both in the Netherlands and abroad. For more information, visit our website www.agriterra.org.
For a new and innovative initiative in the Rwandan maize and soybean value chains, specifically in Ngoma district, Agriterra Rwanda is looking for an accountant.

I. Introduction of the project 

 The Out-grower Service Company (OSC) model for maize and soybean in Rwanda is a pilot project that seeks to increase the soybean and maize productivity and supplies of raw materials for animal feed production. Several factories have been set-up in Rwanda to process animal feeds, but they all lack sufficient availability of domestic quality maize and soybean, forcing them to import their raw materials. Most maize and soybean producers have organized themselves into cooperatives, but the efficiency of the cooperatives often requires further professionalization and upscaling. Having seen the situation, ENABEL initiated the Out-grower Service Company model to provide solutions to challenges faced by both smallholder farmers and animal feed processors. In November 2020 Agriterra received a grant from Enabel to implement this project for a period of 3 years. The targeted number of direct beneficiaries is 3,000 maize and soybean farmers, located in the eastern province, Ngoma district. Experiences of the pilot in Ngoma will be shared with cooperatives in Gisagara and Kirehe districts in year 2 of the project.

II.    Background of the assignment

 The animal feeds industry is a critical component of the livestock sector in Rwanda. However, over the years the sector faced significant challenges in producing sufficient animal feed to support the development of its livestock sector. These challenges include:

i.  Low productivity of the livestock sector with farmers utilizing grasses, maize and legumes in feeding their animals which in many cases affects their productivity.
ii.  Poor quality (high aflatoxin levels) and limited availability of maize (energy source).
iii. Lack of reliable domestic supply of Soya (plant protein) or alternatives.
iv. High cost of imported animal feed ingredients which positions the price of feeds above farmers’ purchasing power.
v. The limited availability of alternative sources of calcium.

To this end, ENABEL funded the implementation of the Out-grower Service Company Model to be piloted by Agriterra in the maize and soybean sectors to increase the local supply of animal feeds ingredients, increase the production levels of animal feeds and improve the productivity in the livestock sector.

Position: OSC Accountant

Location: Ngoma district, Eastern province

As an accountant, you will be based in the OSC office in Ngoma and will support the implementation of the Out-growers services company model in the maize and soybean value chains. The accountant position requires an experienced person with multi-annual experience in cooperative financial administration, especially in the maize/soy sector, with a high degree of independence, integrity and problem-solving skills. To ensure that the project objectives are achieved in full, the job holder will be required to establish a great cooperation and communication with OSC staff on the field, liaise directly with project partners (i.e. ENABEL, RAB and local government) and other key maize and soybean value chain partners (farm inputs suppliers, financial institutions, crop insurance companies, off takers and other services providers).

 Duties

• Compile and analyze financial information prepare financial statements including monthly and annual accounts and ensure compliance with financial rules and regulations.
• Ensure financial records are maintained in compliance with accepted policies and procedures.
• Review entries and correct errors and inconsistencies in financial entries, documents and reports.
• Determine proper handling of financial transactions and approve transactions within designated limits.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and annually financial reports to the Manager and the board of the OSC and explain them in an understandable manner.
• Prepare and submit tax declarations.
• Engage in and facilitate annual financial and tax audits as required by law
• Review of accounts payables and weekly check runs.
• Arrange reconciliations.
• Report, analyze and ensure integrity of all financial information.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports along with any other reports that may be required by the Senior Management or Board.
• Facilitate the drafting of reports to the Board of Directors, ENABEL and the district.
• Carry out other relevant tasks as assigned by Agriterra Rwanda or the OSC manager.

Your profile

• A0 in accounting with at least 2 years of working experience in a related field.
• Knowledge of quick books or similar accounting software.
• A respectful and motivated attitude towards farmers and their organizations.
• Good computer skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Good interpersonal and writing skills in Kinyarwanda, French and English.
• Organizational skills.
• Ability to work in an innovative business model, with loyalty to farmers, cooperatives.
• Ability to work in Ngoma District.
• Strongly developed analytical abilities and commercial insight.
• A robust personality combined with the ability to work independently.
• Good command of Microsoft office.
• Knowledge of the OSC model is an advantage.

Are you interested?

Are you interested in this position and do you fit the profile? Apply before the 31st of July 2021 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae and academic certificate in one PDF file, by sending an e-mail to rwanda@agriterra.org to the attention of Mr. Jasper Spikker, Agriterra Rwanda Country representative, with reference code ATRW-8706ACC. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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