National Consultant - Marine Environment Management Planning Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, working with various stakeholders to address global challenges. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP administers the Nairobi Convention for the Protection, Management, and Development of the Coastal and Marine Environment of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO), focusing on collaborative efforts to enhance marine and coastal ecosystems.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant - Marine Environment Management Planning Specialist involves the development of participatory and evidence-based marine spatial planning, as well as the creation of a comprehensive stakeholder-validated integrated environmental management plan for the communities of Mkoani district, Pemba Southeast, Tanzania. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of the Nairobi Convention Secretariat and closely coordinate with the project manager of the NC-SWIOFC PP

• The role requires engaging with various stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and NGOs, to ensure that the marine spatial plans are aligned with local priorities and scientific data. The consultant will be responsible for facilitating stakeholder meetings, obtaining necessary data, and ensuring that the management plans are effectively implemented and validated by all relevant parties.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Obtaining maps showing existing governance measures in Mkoani district, including multi-sector uses, existing management measures, and future needs.
• Engaging stakeholders in a participatory approach to incorporate community-based coastal and marine management aspects.
• Participating in stakeholder meetings facilitated by the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries of Zanzibar and contributing to discussions on cross-sectoral management processes.
• Developing a Management Plan for Mkoani district in consultation with stakeholders.
• Identifying appropriate interventions and finalizing collaborative management agreements with communities, private sector, and NGOs.
• Updating community-designated fishery closures and defining roles and responsibilities for the Stakeholder Management Committee.
• Working with stakeholders to include Management Plan activities in annual workplans and budgets.
• Facilitating the validation of the management plan through stakeholder consultations and incorporating feedback for approval and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in ecology, marine science, coastal ecosystems management, or a related discipline. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in developing and implementing programs related to coastal ecosystems conservation and natural resources management is required. The candidate must demonstrate knowledge and experience in obtaining ecological, social, and economic geospatial data, as well as a good understanding of adaptation science from a socioecological perspective. Experience working with coastal communities and various stakeholders at both strategic and technical levels is essential, along with a proven track record of quality and timely delivery of projects. Familiarity with the WIO region and experience working with government and intergovernmental programs is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as ecology, marine science, or coastal ecosystems management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of marine and coastal environments and for effectively engaging with stakeholders in the development of management plans.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the field of coastal ecosystems conservation and natural resources management. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing programs that involve community engagement and collaborative marine resource management. Experience working in multidisciplinary setups with government and non-government stakeholders, particularly in the WIO region, is highly desirable. The ability to travel to and work in project sites in Tanzania is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of spoken and written coastal dialects of Kiswahili will be considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 5 months and will be home-based. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or payments during their application.