International Consultant for Digital Innovations in Agriculture

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in African countries. UNECA was founded in 1958 and has since been instrumental in supporting regional integration and sustainable development across the continent. The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on various sectors including trade, agriculture, and technology. UNECA aims to foster economic growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the quality of life for the people of Africa through policy advocacy, research, and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Digital Innovations in Agriculture is crucial for advancing the project aimed at reducing food insecurity in Africa. The consultant will leverage digital technologies to enhance agricultural production, processing, and trade. This role involves evaluating the impact of digital innovations on food systems and supporting the integration of these technologies into agricultural practices. The consultant will work closely with national consultants in both francophone and anglophone countries, conducting assessments of digital trade and food access, identifying gaps, and proposing solutions to improve agricultural value chains. The consultant will also engage with stakeholders to foster collaboration and share best practices in digital supply chain management, ultimately contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2, 'Zero Hunger' by 2030.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International Consultant include leading the implementation of the project, coordinating with national consultants, and conducting a comprehensive assessment of digital trade and agricultural value chains. Specific tasks include reviewing existing documents on digital tools and AI in agriculture, producing national background studies, developing policy briefs for policymakers, and strengthening member states' capacity to leverage digital solutions. The consultant will engage with key stakeholders, assist in organizing workshops, and address market challenges related to digital supply chains. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through digital innovations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in agro-economics, agronomy, sustainable development studies, statistics, or a related field. A PhD in related fields is preferred. Additionally, a minimum of 7 years of experience in the Digital Economy, digitization of agricultural value chains, or analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security analysis is required, with a proven track record of successful agri-tech and food security projects in developing countries, particularly in Africa. Familiarity with statistical and econometric analysis, experience with national institutions, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are also essential qualifications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as agro-economics, agronomy, sustainable development studies, or statistics. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the relevant areas.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in the Digital Economy, digitization of agricultural value chains, or food security analysis. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on agri-tech and food security projects in developing countries, with a preference for experience in Africa. Familiarity with the agricultural sector and digital trade is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills in both languages to effectively engage with stakeholders and produce high-quality outputs.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based with travel expected, and the duration of the consultancy is 3 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process. Candidates should be aware that the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.