Consultant for Organic Agriculture Development

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is a branch of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to support the implementation of OSCE commitments in the region. The office focuses on various areas including economic and environmental affairs, human rights, and security. The mission of the POiB is to promote stability and security in Kyrgyzstan through dialogue and cooperation among various stakeholders. The office has been operational since the early 2000s and employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to fostering sustainable development and peace in the region. The POiB operates in multiple sectors and collaborates with local and international partners to address pressing issues in Kyrgyzstan, including agricultural development, environmental protection, and governance. It aims to enhance the capacity of local institutions and communities to manage their resources effectively and sustainably.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for Organic Agriculture Development will play a crucial role in supporting the Department for Processing Industry and Organic Farming under the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry in Kyrgyzstan. This position is integral to the implementation of the 2025–2029 Organic Production Development Programme, which aims to enhance organic farming practices, improve food security, and promote sustainable agricultural methods. The consultant will be responsible for developing and delivering training programs, conducting seminars, and providing technical guidance on organic farming systems. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, local administrations, and farmers, to ensure the successful execution of the programme's objectives. The consultant will also be involved in establishing demonstration plots to showcase organic farming techniques and will be expected to conduct research and analysis to inform best practices in organic agriculture. This position is designed for someone who is passionate about sustainable agriculture and has a strong understanding of the local context in Kyrgyzstan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Collaborating with the Department for Processing Industry and Organic Farming and local administrations to develop strategies for implementing the Organic Production Development Programme.
• Conducting consultative meetings with key stakeholders to gather insights and foster collaboration.
• Supporting pilot organic ‘aymaks’ by organizing both online and in-person meetings with local administrations and relevant departments.
• Preparing interim and final reports in accordance with OSCE reporting templates.
• Developing a training programme and materials for training sessions focused on organic production methods, biological protection of plants, and certification processes.
• Conducting desk reviews and research on organic agriculture, bio-safety, and certification systems.
• Organizing one-day training sessions in various districts, benefiting over 440 farmers and local officials.
• Providing technical guidance for establishing demonstration plots, including crop selection and agroforestry components.
• Preparing technical specifications for necessary equipment and materials for demonstration plots. 1
• Submitting monthly progress reports and ensuring all documentation is completed accurately and timely.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in environmental economics, agronomy, agricultural sciences, environmental management, sustainable development, or related fields. A minimum of five years of relevant working experience in organic agriculture, sustainable development, or environmental protection is required. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the socio-economic and political landscape in Kyrgyzstan, along with demonstrated knowledge of national agricultural policies. Excellent analytical and writing skills are essential, as well as experience in conducting training and facilitating stakeholder engagement. Previous experience working with smallholder farmers and cooperatives is highly desirable, as is familiarity with research methodologies and data analysis. Candidates should also demonstrate digital literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in a relevant field such as environmental economics, agronomy, agricultural sciences, environmental management, or sustainable development. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of organic agriculture and the environmental challenges faced in Kyrgyzstan. A strong academic foundation will enable the consultant to effectively contribute to the development and implementation of training programs and strategies for organic farming.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of professional experience in organic agriculture, sustainable development, or environmental protection. This experience should include direct involvement in capacity-building initiatives, training delivery, and stakeholder engagement. Familiarity with the agricultural landscape in Kyrgyzstan, including the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, is essential. Previous roles that involved collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations will be advantageous, as they demonstrate the candidate's ability to navigate complex institutional frameworks and foster partnerships.

Languages:
Professional fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of English is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders. The ability to communicate effectively in the local languages is crucial for engaging with farmers and local administrations, ensuring that training materials and sessions are accessible and relevant to the target audience.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, and it is classified as a consultant role with no specific grade. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek is looking for one consultant to fill this position. The target start date is as soon as possible, and the closing date for applications is April 12, 202

• The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the role. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. It is important to note that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.