National Aquaculture Policy Expert

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Position Title: National Aquaculture Policy Expert
Location: Gaborone
Country: Botswana
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was established in October 194

• Its primary mission is to eliminate hunger, improve nutrition, and enhance living standards by increasing agricultural productivity. FAO plays a crucial role in achieving the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, which supports the transformation towards more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The organization operates globally, with over 180 member countries and offices worldwide, including a significant presence in Botswana. FAO collaborates with various governments and technical agencies to develop programs that enhance agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and land and water resources. It also engages in research, provides technical assistance, and conducts educational programs, maintaining vital information services related to agricultural commodities.

Job Overview:
The National Aquaculture Policy Expert will be responsible for developing a gender-sensitive national aquaculture policy for Botswana. This role involves working closely with an international consultant and various stakeholders to address the existing gaps in aquaculture policy. The expert will conduct a comprehensive review of current aquaculture activities and regulatory frameworks in Botswana, identifying challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. The position requires collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture and other relevant entities to ensure that the policy aligns with national and regional priorities. The expert will also provide technical support during stakeholder consultations and contribute to the drafting of the policy and its implementation plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Aquaculture Policy Expert will have several key responsibilities, including: conducting a thorough review of existing aquaculture activities and policies in Botswana; identifying challenges and opportunities for sustainable aquaculture development; examining the capacity of the Aquaculture Division and providing recommendations; offering technical support during stakeholder consultations and workshops; contributing to the development of the draft national aquaculture policy; collaborating with FAO Botswana and international consultants to ensure smooth project implementation; preparing a structured roadmap for policy formulation; and developing a policy implementation plan. Additionally, the expert may be required to carry out other relevant tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as fisheries, natural resources management, biodiversity management, or environmental sciences. A minimum of five years of work experience in fisheries management, agriculture, or aquaculture development is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English and must be nationals of Botswana or residents with a valid work permit. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant area such as fisheries, natural resources management, biodiversity management, environmental sciences, or closely related fields. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of aquaculture policy development and implementation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in fisheries management, agriculture, or aquaculture development. Candidates with experience in organizing participatory processes and engaging a wide range of stakeholders from various sectors will be preferred. Experience with policy development, strategies, and environment-based projects is also essential, along with familiarity with projects in Botswana and UN projects being a desirable asset.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other languages used in Botswana is considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and contributing to effective policy development.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be full-time, and candidates will be assessed against the specified minimum requirements. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate consultations and workshops. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO standards, and the position may involve international collaboration.