Food Security Monitoring and Digital Agriculture Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to defeating hunger and improving nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with governments and partners to develop policies, programs, and projects that promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security. The FAO office in Zimbabwe focuses on supporting the government through the Country Programme Framework (CPF) for the period 2022-2026, which emphasizes inclusive agrifood systems, resilience to climate change, and sustainable management of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Food Security Monitoring and Digital Agriculture Specialist will play a crucial role in implementing food security monitoring and digital agriculture initiatives in Zimbabwe. This position requires a strategic approach to enhance food security through innovative digital solutions and effective monitoring systems. The specialist will coordinate project activities, ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and defined objectives. The role involves providing technical support, fostering partnerships, and facilitating the implementation of the Digital Village Initiative (DVI) across the agricultural sector. The specialist will also engage with stakeholders to promote digital agriculture advisory services and contribute to the development of knowledge products that support digital transformation in agriculture.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specialist will lead the design and implementation of digital agriculture initiatives, including developing and scaling agricultural digitalization efforts. Responsibilities include nurturing partnerships with the private sector, government, and development agencies, providing technical support for the DVI, and collaborating on the dissemination of digital agriculture advisory services. The specialist will also support the adoption of digital tools for e-extension and e-commerce, coordinate stakeholder engagement activities, and document success stories related to digital agriculture. Additionally, the specialist will oversee food security and livelihoods monitoring, coordinating national stakeholders involved in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security analysis, participating in training workshops, and providing technical inputs for decision-making in the aftermath of agricultural hazards. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of data collection methodologies and the ability to coordinate impact assessments effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Agriculture, Social Sciences, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project management and operations is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be nationals of Zimbabwe. The role demands strong analytical and writing skills, good communication and advocacy abilities, and a solid understanding of local socio-economic conditions in rural Zimbabwe. Familiarity with FAO tools and procedures for project implementation is an asset, as is experience in food security monitoring and digital agriculture.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Agriculture, or Social Sciences is essential for this position. Candidates should have their qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to ensure compliance with FAO's educational standards.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in project management and operations. Candidates should have a proven track record in food security monitoring and digital agriculture, with experience in implementing projects that enhance food security and agricultural productivity. Familiarity with FAO's operational procedures and tools is highly advantageous.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and further details regarding compensation and benefits will be provided during the recruitment process. FAO emphasizes compliance with its standards and guidelines throughout the recruitment and employment process.