We are reaching out to invite expressions of interest from qualified consultants for an important consultancy work focused on analyzing the potential impacts of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement on seed sovereignty and the transition to agroecology in Africa. This initiative is aimed at empowering African Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to advocate effectively for seed sovereignty and sustainable agricultural practices, in the context of the AfCFTA’s provisions on seeds and intellectual property rights (IPR).
The purpose of this consultancy is to develop a comprehensive understanding of how the AfCFTA’s seed provisions could affect agricultural practices, particularly those related to Farmer Managed Seed Systems (FMSS), and to outline the potential opportunities and threats this agreement poses to African agriculture.
The consultant will be expected to deliver a full study report that includes a SWOT analysis of the AfCFTA in relation to agroecology, an analysis of the relationship between the AfCFTA IPR protocol on genetic resources and UPOV, and recommendations for advocacy strategies to promote seed sovereignty within the AfCFTA framework. This consultancy is a critical step towards ensuring that the AfCFTA supports sustainable agricultural practices and the rights of small-scale farmers across the continent.
The ideal candidate for this consultancy should have a background in environmental law or related fields, with proven experience in biodiversity conservation, seed rights, and a deep understanding of the agroecology and food sovereignty movements in Africa. Excellent writing and communication skills in French and/or English are essential.
For those interested in applying, we encourage you to review the full Terms of Reference (TOR) available on our website, which provides detailed information about the scope of work, qualifications required, and the application process.
Eligible consultants are invited to submit a financial proposal and a technical proposal for the execution of the services to afsa@afsafrica.org, before 5th March 2024 at 12 noon GMT.
We look forward to receiving your expressions of interest and to potentially working together towards a more sustainable and equitable agricultural future in Africa.
