IC-Market & Demand Assessment for Micro-Takaful and Bundled Loan Products

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting a comprehensive market and demand assessment for micro-Takaful and bundled loan products aimed at supporting youth-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Djibouti. The consultant will utilize a dual analytical approach, which includes both demand-side analysis—examining MSME profiles, financial needs, risk exposure, and willingness to pay—and supply-side assessment of the Islamic finance ecosystem. This includes evaluating microfinance institutions, Takaful operators, and the regulatory framework. The consultant will be responsible for field-based data collection through surveys, focus group discussions, and stakeholder consultations, ensuring representation from key sectors such as livestock, fisheries, and small trade, with a particular focus on women-led enterprises. The ultimate goal is to develop a robust feasibility study and business case that includes risk mapping, institutional partnership options, and the design of bundled financial products that integrate microcredit and Takaful, providing actionable recommendations to enhance financial inclusion and economic opportunities for youth entrepreneurs in Djibouti.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a thorough demand-side analysis to identify MSME profiles, financial needs, risk exposure, and willingness to pay for financial products.
• Perform a supply-side assessment of the Islamic finance ecosystem, including microfinance institutions and Takaful operators.
• Engage in field-based data collection through surveys, focus group discussions, and stakeholder consultations.
• Ensure representation across key sectors, particularly focusing on women-led enterprises.
• Review the legal, regulatory, and institutional landscape governing Islamic finance and Takaful in Djibouti.
• Develop a feasibility study and business case that includes risk mapping and institutional partnership options.
• Design 1–2 bundled financial products that integrate microcredit and Takaful.
• Provide actionable, data-driven recommendations to support the pilot implementation of innovative financial instruments.
• Submit proposals directly in the UNDP portal by the indicated deadline. 1
• Respond to any requests for clarification in writing via the messaging functionality in the portal.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in conducting market assessments, particularly in the financial services sector.
• Strong understanding of Islamic finance principles, particularly Takaful and microfinance.
• Experience working with MSMEs, especially youth-led enterprises.
• Familiarity with the regulatory framework governing Islamic finance in Djibouti.
• Excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field is required. Additional certifications in Islamic finance or microfinance would be an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in market assessment, financial services, or consulting, with a focus on Islamic finance and MSMEs. Experience in Djibouti or similar contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in French and/or Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and stakeholder engagement requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an individual contractor and is expected to be a full-time engagement. The contract duration will be specified upon selection, and the consultant will be expected to work closely with the UNDP team in Djibouti. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.