National Consultant for the Realization of a Market Study on Menstrual Hygiene

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, making it a desirable workplace for those dedicated to serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for the Realization of a Market Study on Menstrual Hygiene will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive market study that includes mapping key market players, analyzing supply chains, understanding user practices, and identifying barriers to access menstrual products. The consultant will also assess the cost structure and price levels of menstrual products, evaluate affordability for different population groups, and provide actionable insights for market development. This role requires a deep understanding of the WASH and menstrual health sectors in Cameroon, as well as the socio-economic and cultural context, particularly in vulnerable areas. The consultant will engage with multiple stakeholders, including public institutions, NGOs, and the private sector, to facilitate dialogue and gather necessary data for the study.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive mapping of key market players, including producers, importers, distributors, and NGOs involved in menstrual hygiene products.
• Analyze the supply chain and distribution channels for menstrual products.
• Gather in-depth knowledge of user practices, preferences, and behaviors regarding menstrual hygiene.
• Identify and analyze the main barriers to access menstrual products, including economic, social, geographical, and cultural factors.
• Review policies, regulations, and tax frameworks applicable to menstrual products in Cameroon.
• Identify existing regulatory constraints and propose opportunities to improve the legal and policy framework.
• Understand the cost structure of menstrual products and analyze price levels in the market.
• Assess the affordability of menstrual products for different population groups.
• Identify development opportunities within the menstrual hygiene segment. 1
• Create a reliable database from field surveys and provide actionable quantitative and qualitative analytics. 1
• Suggest avenues for market development and guidelines for private sector engagement. 1
• Provide a technical basis for policy advocacy and dialogue with partners.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, WASH, Public Health, Development Economics, Business, Marketing, Social Sciences, or a relevant field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in WASH, Environmental Engineering, Development Economics, or Social Sciences, with at least 5 years of proven experience in conducting market research or value chain analysis in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Proven experience in implementing field studies, including quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis, ideally in WASH, health, or consumer essentials.
• Strong knowledge of the WASH and/or menstrual health sector in Cameroon, including market dynamics and socio-economic context.
• Experience in engaging with multiple stakeholders and organizing consultation workshops.
• Excellent analytical, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and structured reports.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Environmental Engineering, WASH, Public Health, Development Economics, Business, Marketing, or Social Sciences. This educational background is essential to ensure the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to conduct the market study effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience, with at least 5 years specifically focused on conducting market research, value chain analysis, or similar studies in developing countries. Experience in the WASH sector and familiarity with the socio-economic and cultural context of Cameroon are crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in French is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in Cameroon. A working knowledge of English is also required, as it may be necessary for engaging with international stakeholders and accessing relevant literature. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they enhance communication with local communities or stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is 6 months, and the working arrangement is home-based with travel required for field studies and stakeholder engagement. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. Candidates are required to submit a detailed technical proposal, financial proposal, and an up-to-date CV through the online recruitment portal.