National Consultant for Namibia

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), which plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established to promote sustainable development globally, UN DESA provides substantive support and capacity-building for the SDGs and their related thematic issues. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, working with various stakeholders to enhance local and national government capacities for effective SDG localization. UN DESA is committed to fostering partnerships and collaboration among governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve sustainable development objectives.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Namibia will be responsible for implementing the project titled 'Strengthening local and national government capacities for SDG localization in Africa.' This consultancy aims to enhance the capacities of local and national governments in Namibia to accelerate the implementation and localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The consultant will work closely with relevant government officials and stakeholders, particularly the National Planning Commission and the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator. The role involves preparing an inception report, supporting the development of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) by selected local governments, providing logistical and substantive support for the finalization of these reviews, and preparing a synthesis report that captures the main messages and findings from the VLR processes. The consultant will play a vital role in ensuring that local authorities effectively conduct VLRs and strengthen the capacity of the National Planning Commission as the coordinating agency for SDG implementation and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Consultant include: (a) Preparing an inception report that includes an introductory state of play on SDG localization in participating localities, an overview of existing data and gaps, and an initial mapping of relevant institutional coordination mechanisms for SDG implementation and local development plans in each participating local government. The report should also contain a detailed and inclusive workplan for conducting the reviews by local authorities, in line with DESA Global Guiding Elements for Voluntary Local Reviews. (b) Supporting the development of Voluntary Local Reviews by up to five selected local governments, ensuring that the process is inclusive and participatory. (c) Providing substantive and logistical support, as well as continuous coordination support, to finalize the Voluntary Local Reviews, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards and requirements. (d) Preparing a synthesis report that summarizes the main messages, findings, and key conclusions from the VLR processes, which may serve as input for the Voluntary National Review process. This role requires strong analytical skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in development policy, economics, social sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must have at least five years of relevant professional experience in national development planning, local development research, sustainable development and localization analysis, data visualization, and principles of effective governance for sustainable development. Experience in training local government authorities on sustainable development is also essential. Knowledge of the development challenges facing Namibia and familiarity with the relevant actors in the field is desirable. Previous experience with the United Nations or its agencies, funds, and programs is an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to professionalism, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in development policy, economics, social sciences, or a related field. In cases where a candidate has a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to meet the educational requirements for the position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of sustainable development and the localization of the SDGs.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience in areas such as national development planning, local development research, sustainable development, and localization analysis. Candidates should have experience in data visualization and a solid understanding of effective governance principles for sustainable development. Additionally, experience in training local government authorities on sustainable development practices is essential. Familiarity with the processes of Voluntary National Reviews and Voluntary Local Reviews is also important, as is knowledge of the development challenges specific to Namibia.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the context of international development work.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for 50 working days, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and performance. The position is not associated with any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for application, interview, or training processes. This ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.