1      Background

1.1               Situational Analysis

The integral functioning of Lesotho’s mountainous ecosystems is vital not only to the livelihoods and welfare of its people, but for the delivery of ecosystem services and global environmental benefits to a large part of Southern Africa.

This GEF-UNDP project is nationally implemented by the Ministry of Forestry and Land Reclamation (MFLR). Among other Outcomes, the project envisages piloting SLM techniques in the mountains of Maseru district. The pilots will draw on the grazing management systems developed by MFLR over the last 20 years. The challenge now is to adjust this concept to the new institutional framework, broaden it so that it embraces the sustainable management of all natural elements of the range resource complex so that it is ready for application throughout the country. The premise is that Sustainable Land Management (SLM) provides a strong base for sustainable development in Lesotho while providing a range of global benefits to the region.

2. Objective of the assignment

The objective of this consultancy is to undertake a baseline study on the socio-economic indicators at household level in the mountain area of Maseru district covering the community councils of Likalaneng, Nyakosoba, Makheka (Rapoleboea), Semonkong, Telle, Makolopetsane and Ribaneng and surrounding cattle posts. The consultant is expected to assess the current livelihood strategies, identify existing sources and levels of income, so as to measure progress towards improved and diversified livelihoods. The consultant is also expected to collect other general household demographic data; i.e. number of people per household, levels of education & literacy, employment, type and age of head of household, gender etc.

2      Description of Responsibilities

2.1               Deliverables

·         Inception report with survey instruments upon 2 weeks of signing contract

·         1st draft baseline survey report and data sets by 31-Dec-10

·         Final report, data sets and tools for continuous monitoring by 15-Jan-11

2.2               Mandatory Conditions

·         The consultant is expected to commit fully to this task and respect the attached rules and regulations governing UN consultants.

·     Payment to the Consultant will be made at 30% of the consultancy amount upon receipt of the first draft report and final payment upon satisfactory completion of assignment.

3      Skills and Competencies

• At least a Masters Degree in a field related to sustainable rural development, or sub-contractees with a minimum of a masters degree;
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in developing M&E frameworks in community-based natural resource management projects;
• Proven experience with the logical frameworks and other strategic planning approaches, M&E methods and approaches (including quantitative, qualitative and participatory);
• The consultant should have expertise in designing M&E solutions that address institutions, livestock productivity, biodiversity and socio-economics. Familiarity with Socio-economic M&E measures is an advantage;
• Familiarity with and a supportive attitude towards strengthening local organisations and building local capacities for self-management;

This consultancy is open to Lesotho nationals only. Please see http://jobs.undp.org/ for Full Terms of Reference for this consultancy and to apply.

Closing date is 29 October, 2010

Regrettably only shortlisted candidates can be contacted.