International Consultancy for Operationalisation of Green Taxonomy in Eswatini

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and climate change, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The position involves a consultancy role focused on the operationalization of the Eswatini Green Finance Taxonomy (EGFT). The consultant will be responsible for developing clear application guidelines, verification approaches, and practical tools that will enable financial institutions, regulators, and policymakers to classify, assess, and report on green economic activities in a transparent and auditable manner. The role emphasizes the development of activity-level criteria, evidence requirements, reporting templates, and supervisory guidance to ensure consistent interpretation and application of the taxonomy. The consultant will work closely with key stakeholders, including the Central Bank of Eswatini and various ministries, to strengthen institutional capacity and readiness for the effective application of the EGFT. The ultimate goal is to deliver a comprehensive operational package that supports the Government of Eswatini in rolling out the taxonomy as a credible instrument for guiding sustainable finance and facilitating access to green finance opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a structured assignment organized into four components: 1) Inception and Technical Review - conducting a comprehensive review of the EGFT package to assess its operational readiness, identifying gaps, and proposing a structured approach for addressing these gaps. 2) Development of Operational Guidelines and Tools - creating a comprehensive set of operational guidelines, tools, and supporting materials for the practical application of the EGFT, including developing frameworks for Do No Significant Harm (DNSH) and Minimum Social Safeguards (MSS). 3) Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening - designing and delivering targeted capacity-building activities for key institutions to enhance understanding and application of the EGFT framework. 4) Validation and Finalisation - facilitating a technical validation workshop with stakeholders to review and validate the developed operational tools and guidance materials, incorporating feedback into the final deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in environmental finance, sustainable development, or a related field. They should have experience in developing and implementing financial frameworks, particularly in the context of green finance and taxonomy. Knowledge of international best practices in sustainable finance and familiarity with the regulatory landscape in Eswatini is essential. The candidate should also demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, and experience in capacity building and training.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or higher in environmental science, finance, economics, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in sustainable finance or taxonomy development would be advantageous.

Experience:
The consultant should have at least 5-7 years of relevant experience in environmental finance, sustainable development, or related consultancy roles. Experience working with governmental institutions, financial regulators, and stakeholders in the context of green finance is highly desirable. Proven track record in developing operational guidelines and tools for financial institutions is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages in Eswatini would be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a total of 70 days spread over a period of 4 months. The position is part-time and the consultant will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The role may involve international collaboration, and the consultant should be prepared to engage with various stakeholders across different sectors.