Consultant for Developing Step-by-Step Guide for Trading in Goods under AfCFTA

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), which was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. ECA plays a crucial role in supporting African countries in their efforts to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement, which aims to enhance intra-African trade and economic integration. The organization operates across multiple countries in Africa, working closely with various stakeholders, including governments, private sectors, and regional organizations. ECA's mission is to foster economic growth and sustainable development in Africa by providing policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity-building support to member states. The organization has a significant number of employees and collaborates with various international partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The position involves developing a comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide for Trading in Goods specifically tailored for the Zambian private sector. This guide aims to enhance access to trade information for Zambian businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women, and youth traders. The consultant will work closely with the Zambian government and other stakeholders to ensure that the guide effectively addresses the regulatory and procedural requirements for engaging in trade under the AfCFTA. The overarching goal is to support the effective and inclusive implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement at the national level, thereby contributing to Zambia's economic growth and integration into the continental market. The consultant will utilize a triangulated methodology that includes desk research, primary data collection, and illustrative case studies to ensure the guide's accuracy and usability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including engaging with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry (MCTI), the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI), and other stakeholders to assess the current state of Zambia's trade policy and its engagement in the AfCFTA. The consultant will conduct research guided by the established methodology, analyze Zambia's national trade policy and legal frameworks, and collect information from selected businesses regarding their experiences in exporting and importing goods. The consultant will develop a comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide, present it at a stakeholder validation workshop, incorporate feedback, and submit the final approved version of the guide. Additionally, the consultant may assist with other related tasks as assigned by ECA, MCTI, or ZACCI.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or above) in economics, international trade law, political economy, or related fields. A Ph.D. is considered an advantage. A minimum of seven years of experience in trade-related research and/or analysis is required, along with expert knowledge of the AfCFTA and Zambia's trade and economic policies. Demonstrated experience working in Zambia and familiarity with its institutional context are essential. Candidates should also have experience in conducting and publishing interdisciplinary research in policy, economics, and legal aspects of trade-led integration in Africa, which is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or higher, in fields such as economics, international trade law, political economy, or related disciplines. A Ph.D. is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in trade-related research and analysis. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the AfCFTA and Zambia's trade and economic policies, as well as demonstrated experience working within Zambia's institutional framework. Experience in conducting interdisciplinary research related to trade-led integration in Africa is also highly desirable, indicating a need for a well-rounded background in both practical and theoretical aspects of trade.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the organization. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of six months and will be conducted in a hybrid work environment. The position does not specify additional information regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring procedure.