Technical Support for Apiculture Activities

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. Its mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO collaborates with various organizations, including UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, to implement programs that enhance nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, climate resilience, and livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, youth, and smallholder farmers.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Support for Apiculture Activities is designed to provide essential technical and operational support for the implementation of apiculture-related activities within the framework of the Joint United Nations Nutrition Programme (UNN). This role is crucial in enhancing food security and improving livelihoods through honey production, which is a key component of the FAO's strategy in Sierra Leone. The incumbent will work closely with FAO technical teams and government counterparts to ensure that the apiculture initiatives are effectively executed, contributing to improved household incomes, nutrition-sensitive livelihoods, and climate-resilient production systems. The position requires a collaborative approach, as the incumbent will coordinate with various stakeholders, including implementing partners and field teams, to deliver training and support to beneficiaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a range of duties that include providing technical support under close supervision, preparing technical training materials, and assisting in the delivery of training activities related to beekeeping. Specific responsibilities include supporting the preparation of training modules on beekeeping techniques, hive construction, honey harvesting, and hygiene practices. The incumbent will also assist in field-level implementation of beekeeping activities, support monitoring of established beekeeping units, and document field observations. Additionally, the role involves compiling information related to the apiculture value chain, supporting data collection and organization of technical field data, and preparing technical reports and summaries. The incumbent will not independently represent FAO or make institutional decisions but will work under the guidance of FAO technical teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Apiculture, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Rural Development, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in apiculture and/or livestock value chain development is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English at Level C and must be nationals of Sierra Leone. The role demands strong expertise in beekeeping systems, honey processing, quality control, and value chain development, as well as experience in community-based livelihood programs and developing business models and market linkages.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as Apiculture, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Rural Development, or other related disciplines. This advanced degree is essential to ensure that the incumbent has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively support the apiculture initiatives and contribute to the overall goals of the FAO in Sierra Leone.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the field of apiculture and/or livestock value chain development. This experience should include practical involvement in community-based livelihood programs and a demonstrated ability to develop business models and market linkages. Candidates should also have experience in training and capacity building, which is critical for the successful implementation of the technical support activities outlined in the job description.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at Level C is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders, as well as for the preparation of technical documents and reports. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context and communities served by the FAO in Sierra Leone.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, and while specific details regarding contract duration and compensation are not provided, candidates should be aware that the role involves working closely with various stakeholders in the field. The incumbent will be expected to engage in hands-on activities and support the implementation of beekeeping initiatives in target communities, contributing to the overall objectives of the Joint United Nations Nutrition Programme.