National Consultant for Climate Change Strategy Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and enhance the capacity of African countries to achieve sustainable development. UNECA operates in multiple countries across Africa, working with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address various challenges including climate change, economic growth, and social equity. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals and collaborates with various stakeholders to implement its initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Climate Change Strategy Development will play a crucial role in supporting the Government of Eritrea in developing a comprehensive National Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan. This position requires a deep understanding of Eritrea's climate environment, policy context, and institutional frameworks. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing existing climate policies, conducting stakeholder consultations, and ensuring that the strategy aligns with international climate commitments. The overarching goal is to integrate climate change considerations into national development planning, enhance institutional capacities, and promote resilience against climate impacts. The consultant will work closely with various government ministries and stakeholders to ensure inclusivity and ownership of the strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review and analyze existing climate policy, strategy, and frameworks, including Eritrea's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and other relevant documents.
• Conduct thorough consultations with key stakeholders, including government institutions, academia, and community organizations, to validate analyses and ensure stakeholder ownership.
• Map institutions and governance frameworks related to climate finance and assess the capacity of relevant ministries and agencies.
• Identify gender-specific climate vulnerabilities and integrate findings into the strategy to promote equitable climate resilience.
• Develop a comprehensive draft National Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan that outlines strategic goals, priorities, and implementation mechanisms.
• Propose a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) system to track progress and assess outcomes of the strategy.
• Convene a national validation workshop to discuss and refine the draft strategy with stakeholders.
• Submit the final strategy and action plan to the Government of Eritrea, including recommendations for implementation and capacity building.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess a Master’s degree in climate science, environmental policy, development studies, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of experience in climate policy, planning, or strategy development, particularly in the African context, is required. Proven experience in developing national or subnational climate strategies and frameworks such as NDCs or Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) is essential. The candidate should have a strong background in stakeholder engagement, multi-sectoral planning processes, and gender-responsive climate planning. Excellent analytical and report-writing skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in French is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as climate science, environmental policy, or development studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change and its implications for national development.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant experience in climate policy, planning, or strategy development, with a focus on African countries. Candidates should have a track record of developing climate strategies and engaging with various stakeholders in the climate discourse.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the working language of the United Nations. Proficiency in French is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 11 months, with progress monitored through regular reports and virtual meetings. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process. The consultant will be expected to provide monthly updates and participate in joint reviews led by UNECA to track achievements against established milestones.