REPUBLIC OF KENYA
RE-ADVERTISEMENT
KENYA CEREAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME (KCEP)
RECRUITMENT OF PROGRAMME COORDINATION UNIT STAFF
BACKGROUND
The Kenya Cereal Enhancement Programme (KCEP) will be implemented by the Ministry of
Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (MoALF) with funding by the European Union (EU) and
supervision by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The Programme which
shall cover 8 counties has the objectives of contributing to national food security by increasing the
production of the targeted cereal staples (Maize, Sorghum and Millet and pulses), increasing
incomes of the smallholders in the production areas, and supporting smallholder farmers in
graduating from subsistence to commercial agriculture. The programme will run for a period of
seven (7) years.
The Programme Coordination Unit (PCU) for KCEP located in Nairobi shall be responsible for the
overall coordination and management of the programme. In addition, the programme will have two
sub-units of the PCU, one in Nakuru and the other in Siakago Town (Embu County).
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Programme Coordinator (PC) – Nairobi (Ref. PC01)
Reporting to the Principal Secretary (PS), State Department of Agriculture, MoALF, the PC will be
responsible for the overall management and coordination of KCEP activities. These include the
provision of strategic guidance on day-to-day implementation of KCEP activities, Secretary to the
Programme Steering Committee (PSC), which is chaired by the PS, State Department of Agriculture.
Responsibilities
(a) Provide effective leadership to the PCU
(b) Be responsible for the overall management of the programme and of the PCU staff
(c) Lead in the preparation of the annual work plan and budget (AWPB) and associated
Procurement Plan;
(d) Ensure the effective utilization of programme funds and other resources according to the
AWPB and Procurement Plan through supervision and monitoring;
(e) Ensure that progress, audit and other reports are produced and submitted to the
appropriate parties on a timely basis;
(f) Ensure the implementation of the programme Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)
Strategy and Action Plan;
(g) Ensure the timely dissemination of programme experience and results to relevant
stakeholders within the learning community;
(h) Ensure adequate liaison and networking with other agencies either working in the
programme area or potentially concerned with programme activities and with other relevant
interventions;
(i) Represent the programme at relevant functions and meetings;
(j) Implement the decisions of the PSC;
(k) Undertake programme completion and financing closing activities when due; and
(l) Perform any other duty relevant to the programme as may be assigned by the PS.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree or higher qualification in Agriculture, Economics, Business Studies, or other
relevant field;
(b) At least 10 years’ experience at senior level in management of national-wide programmes
with focus in agricultural production, marketing or business development;
(c) Demonstrated recent experience in implementing a programme aiming at increasing the
competitiveness and inclusiveness of value chains, including agricultural value chains;
(d) At least two recent professional experiences showing direct supervision of professional and
support staff, quality evaluation of staff performance and deliverables, and contract
management;
(e) At least two recent professional experiences indicating the candidate ability to liaise with a
wide range and levels of organizations (Government, Donors, private sector, NGOs, and
research institutions).
(f) Demonstrated creativity, willingness to innovate, think systemically and design catalytic
approaches to programme activities;
(g) Strong communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
Financial and Administrative Manager (FAM) – Nairobi (Ref. FAM02)
Reporting to the Programme Coordinator, the FAM shall lead the coordination of the overall
financial and administrative functions of KCEP.
Responsibilities
(a) Develop and put into operation the programme financial and procurement system;
(b) Manage programme funds effectively and efficiently , ensuring that programme accounts,
disbursements and replenishment procedures are executed in accordance with the
provisions of the Financing Agreement and the relevant financial guidelines of Government
of Kenya (GOK) and/or one of the multilateral development partner;
(c) Ensure that all procurement of goods and services are in compliance with the provisions of
the Financing Agreement;
(d) Ensure administrative management of service provider and other procurement contracts;
(e) Conduct training of partners’ and service providers’ staff to ensure that they carry out
financial reporting and procurement in accordance with multilateral donor guidelines;
(f) Ensure proper use and conservation of programme assets;
(g) Ensure accurate costing for the AWPB;
(h) Prepare regular financial and procurement progress reports;
(i) Prepare annual financial reports for external auditing in compliance with the provisions of
the Financing Agreement and any specific EU reporting requirements;
(j) Put in place system to supervise the day-to-day office administration including staff
performance , use of movable assets, inventory and ;disposal of assets
(k) Assist the PC in preparing the Completion Report and in conducting programme completion
and financing closing activities as per the Financing Agreement;
(l) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(a) Bachelor of Commerce (Accounts options), Finance or Business Administration degree from
a recognized university plus professional accounting qualification (CPA-K or equivalent);
(b) At least 8 years’ experience at management level in financial and administrative
management of government-donors funded development programmes;
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
Ensuring the compliance of programme management to guidelines
ii.
Leading the finance and administrative reporting
iii.
costing AWP
(d) Experience in financial management/accounting in a government ministry/department and
donor-funded projects.
(e) Computer literate, especially in specialized accounting packages;
(f) Good working knowledge of accounting, personnel and procurement policies and
procedures;
(g) Good working knowledge on banking, financial control, and procurement;
(h) Strong management and communication skills.
Value Chain Development Specialist (VCS) – Nairobi (Ref. VCS03)
Reporting to the PC, the VCS shall coordinate the KCEP activities for value chain support.
Responsibilities
(a) Guide service providers on the identification, planning, implementation, monitoring and
evaluation of value chain support activities, including the promotion of entrepreneurial skills
in farmers’ organisations;
(b) Facilitate linkages and contracts between business model stakeholders including
distributors, local promoters and farmers;
(c) Ensure adequate synergies between Components 2 and 3 of the programme, in
collaboration with the Financial Services Expert;
(d) Monitor the development of innovative business models and, in collaboration with the
Knowledge Management and Communication Officer and the Planning and Monitoring and
Evaluation Officer, ensure related knowledge management, including the identification of
policy lessons, and participate in developing the Programme Learning System;
(e) Guide the preparation and implementation of the various value chain related studies;
(f) Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reports;
(g) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Rural Development or a related discipline from
a recognized university.
(b) At least 8 years working experience in a similar field, 3 of which in senior management
position;
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
Identification and development of guidelines for specific value chains
ii.
Managing the consultative process during the identification of specific value chains
iii.
Developing specific analysis on bottlenecks affecting development of value chains
iv.
Conducting Training need assessment for the promotion of specific value chains
(d) Demonstrated experience in facilitating value chain development, value chain analysis and in
building capacity of value chain actors;
(e) Knowledge of technologies and issues for value chain development, business development,
and rural livelihoods;
(f) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
(g) Strong proposal and report writing skills.
Knowledge Management and Communication Officer (KMO) – Nairobi (Ref KMO04)
Reporting to the PC and working very closely with the VCS and the M&E Officer, the KMO will
coordinate the establishment and operation of an integrated Programme Learning and
Communication and Strategy System. The system will link five functions: learning and adaptation for
continuous improvement of performance; learning-oriented M&E; internal (PCU) and external
(stakeholders) communication; innovation and experimentation; and information management.
Responsibilities
(a) Oversee the development and implementation of the KCEP Programme Learning and
Communication System and Strategy;
(b) Develop and implement processes and guidelines for systematic capture of knowledge, good
practices and innovation, and the sharing and use of same to improve programme
implementation, including in the development of the AWPB;
(c) Support advocacy efforts through providing evidence of programme impact gathered
through the M&E system;
(d) Coordinate the development and implementation of capacity building programmes for PCU
staff, the counties and implementing partners, including coaching and mentoring;
(e) Provide assistance/guidance in implementing the Programme Learning System;
(f) Coordinate surveys and case studies to assess achievements and outcomes of KCEP
activities;
(g) Develop a multi-stakeholder communication strategy along the seasonal performance of the
programme including a portal for web-based feedback of beneficiaries, private sector
partners and county administrations
(h) Coordinate the dissemination of the findings from the impact assessment studies.
(i) Foster partnerships for broader knowledge-sharing and learning;
(j) Oversee communication support to awareness raising and sensitisation of programme
participants;
(k) Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reports;
(l) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Communications or other
relevant field.
(b) At least 8 years relevant work experience, in knowledge management and communication;
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
(i)
Developing and implementing comprehensive communication and visibility plans
(ii)
Developing website whose purpose is to document the project profile and the
periodic reporting to results and to provide a forum for stakeholders feedback
during the implementation period
(ii)
Writing reports, articles and or pamphlets depicting programme interventions and
results;
(d) Proficiency in the use of databases, modern information and communication technology
(ICT) in development, and other computer applications;
(e) Demonstrated skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis and data management;
(f) Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing successful communication and
knowledge management strategies for sustainable development, or in planning and
implementing strategies at management level;
(g) Experience in analysing complex programmes or policies;
(h) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
(i) Ability to communicate in Kiswahili and English.
Civil Engineer (CVE) – Nairobi (Ref. CVE05)
Reporting to the PC, the CVE will oversee the implementation of the civil works related the
construction and refurbishment of warehouses and road spot improvements.
Responsibilities
(a) Oversee the preparation of tender documents for the studies, supervision and
construction/refurbishment of warehouses and road spot improvements;
(b) Review and develop specific project guidelines for county staff on warehousing and spot
road repair (in association with KERRA)
(c) Supervise civil works activities under the programme and report on progress to the PC;
(d) Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reports;
(e) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from a recognized institution plus professional
registration; a relevant post graduate qualification will be an added advantage;
(b) At least 8 years relevant work experience in related field, presentation).
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Developing specific construction and management guidelines for rural road repairs
according to KERRA recommendations and along the Kenya Roads 2000 guiding
policies.
Developing standard designs and bill of quantities for agro-product warehousing in
respect of phytosanitary standards
Supervising (former district) county staff
Providing standard technical advice to private sector operators at local level
Financial Services Specialist (FSS) – Nairobi (Ref:FSS06)
Reporting to the PC, the FSS will in collaboration with the Programme for Rural Outreach of Financial
Innovations and Technologies (PROFIT), coordinate the implementation of Component 3 (Financial
Inclusion).
Responsibilities
(a) Liaise with the Value Chain Development Specialist and the Agri-business Officers of the two
sub-units to ensure adequate synergies between Components 2(Post Harvest Management)
and 3 (Financial Inclusion);
(b) Monitor the performance of the partners and service providers intervening in the
implementation of the Component;
(c) Monitor the performance of limited liability companies set up by the project;
(d) Develop a plan to broaden financial inclusion outreach for direct beneficiaries and
associated service providers.
(e) in collaboration with the KM and Communication Officer and partners/service providers of
Component 3, develop knowledge management on innovative financial instruments;
(f) Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reporting;
(g) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree in Finance, Agricultural Economics or related fields;
(b) At least 8 years’ experience working with the financial sector on financial sector
development, microfinance, rural finance or banking, 3years at management level and
preferably in an international development programme or with an established finance
institution;
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
Developing and implementing financial deepening strategies in rural areas including
instruments such as: weather based insurances; warehousing receipts; direct or
shadow equity funding; targeted subsidies to farmers operation; risk fund; loans;
and others.
ii.
Developing specific analysis on financial deepening potential and constraints
associated to value chain development
iii.
Developing specific communication systems to the above
(a) Demonstrated knowledge of the banking and financial regulations applicable to finance
institutions
(b) Experience in training and capacity building of rural clients on financial services ;
(c) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation).
Senior Accountant (SAC) – Nairobi (Ref. SAC07)
Responsibilities
Reporting to the FMA, the SAC will be responsible for:
(a) Preparation of programme accounts;
(b) Preparation and submission of periodical financial reports;
(c) Verification of supplier’s invoices for payment, including service providers’ requests for
funds, and timely implementation of payment procedures;
(d) Timely posting of all project accounting vouchers on the accounting software;
(e) Exercise proper custody of all posted vouchers and other accounting documents;
(f) Preparation of withdrawal applications;
(g) Replenishment of operational account with programme bank account.
(h) Facilitate financial audits and implementation support missions;
(i) Regular sharing of account printouts by components to the heads of component for analysis
and comments;
(j) Advice to management on accounting and administration matters;
(k) Any other duty assigned by the FMA.
Qualifications
(a) Bachelors’ degree in accounting and finance from a recognised institution plus a professional
accounting qualification (CPA(K), ACCA or equivalent).
(b) At least 5 years’ practical experience in a project financial management unit and acquainted
with accounting procedures in the public administration sector or with internationally
financed projects;
(c) Previous experience with Donor-funded procedures and financial regulations would be an
added advantage;
(d) Good knowledge of computer applications in accounting such as TOMPRO, PASTEL, SUN;
(e) ability to work under pressure and meet crucial deadlines;
(f) Fluency (reading, writing and speaking) in English and in Kiswahili.
Procurement Officer (PRO) – Nairobi (Ref. PRO08)
Responsibilities
Reporting to the FAM, the PRO will be responsible for:
(a) Coordination of procurement of programme works, goods and services at the central level
and assist/supervise decentralised procurement as appropriate;
(b) Ensuring proper use and conservation of programme assets;
(c) Preparation of annual programme procurement plans in collaboration with other members
of the PCU and implementing partners, and submitting same for approval by the PSC and
IFAD along with the AWPB;
(d) Ensuring the preparation and advertisement of TORs and tender and contract documents for
specific procurements according to GOK and Donor-funded procedures;
(e) Participation in relevant tender committee meetings at the Lead Agency and assisting with
the preparation of committee reports;
(f) Review and advise on tender evaluation reports prepared by the Counties and other
implementing agencies and making necessary follow-up;
(g) Maintaining high quality procurement files and contract registers for review by supervision
missions and auditors;
(h) Preparation of regular financial and procurement progress reports;
(i) Undertake any other duty assigned by the FAM.
Qualifications
(a) Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Purchasing and Supplies Management. A
post graduate qualification will be an added advantage; or
(b) Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Public Administration, Law, Accounting or any other related
field plus a post graduate diploma in Supply Chain Management, Purchasing and Supplies
Management.
(c) At least 8 years’ experience at senior management level with procurement of civil works,
goods and services for GOK/donor funded projects;
(d) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
Preparing procurement guidelines for donor funded project.
ii.
Chairing a tender committee for national and international competitive bidding
iii.
Preparing tender dossier for national and international competitive bidding
iv.
Preparing contracts
v.
Drafting and ensuring timely delivery of all administrative correspondence and
communication associated to the tender and contract process.
(e) Comprehensive knowledge of Public Procurement Regulations is a must
(f) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentational);
(g) Fluency in English.
Planning and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer (PME) – Nairobi (Ref. PME09)
Responsibilities
Reporting to the KMO, the PME is responsible for:
(a) Developing and running an M&E system and associated Management Information System
for managing data and information for overall monitoring, and for the collection and analysis
of data on programme achievements and impact, based on a set of gender disaggregated
indicators in line with the programme logical framework and stakeholders’ information
needs;
(b) Organization and supervision of focused baseline surveys at the beginning of the
programme;
(c) Coordinating the preparation and monitoring the implementation of the AWPB;
(d) Ensuring that all participating institutions keep records on their activities and feed this
information into the Programme Learning System;
(e) Developing a simple reporting system for the monitoring of programme activities and
preparing regular reports on implementation progress, performance and impact of
operations;
(f) Set up term of reference and conduct studies to assess the impact of the programme
(g) Organization of training on M&E for members of the PCU, implementing partners and
counties, and providing technical backstopping to implementing agencies for preparing the
AWPBs and for compliance with reporting requirements;
(h) Undertake any other duty assigned by the KMO.
Qualifications
(a) Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, or a related field from a recognized university. A
post graduate diploma/certificate in MIS or M&E will be an added advantage;
(b) At least 8 years’ working experience at management in M&E of donor-funded programmes
(c) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
i.
Identifying programme output and outcome indicators that are coherent with the
sector medium term plans and the local development plan (CIDPs)
ii.
Conducting a base line survey for selected indicators
iii.
Developing an M&E system for the programme
iv.
Organizing the communication on the result of the M&E
v.
Preparing terms of reference for the above.
(d) Ability to use advanced computer packages for quantitative and qualitative analysis and data
base storage;
(e) Good knowledge and experience on the project cycle related activities and developments in
the sector;
(f) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
Agribusiness Officers (ABO) – Nakuru and Siakago Town (Ref. ABO10N or ABO10S)
Reporting to the Value Chain Specialist (VCS), there will be one ABO each in Nakuru and Siakago
Town, focussing on the Maize and Sorghum/Millet value chain respectively.
Responsibilities
(h) Guide service providers on the identification, planning, implementation, monitoring and
evaluation of value chain support activities, including the promotion of entrepreneurial skills
in farmers’ organisations;
(i) Facilitate linkages and contracts between business model stakeholders including
distributors, local promoters and farmers;
(j) Ensure adequate synergies between post component 2 ( post harvest management &
market linkages) and component 3 (financial inclusion) of the programme, in collaboration
with the Financial Services Expert;
(k) Monitor the development of innovative business models and, in collaboration with the
Knowledge Management and Communication Officer and the Planning and Monitoring and
Evaluation Officer, ensure related knowledge management, including the identification of
policy lessons, and participate in developing the Programme Learning System;
(l) Preparing and implementing various value chain related studies;
(m) Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reports;
(n) Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.
Qualifications
(h) Masters degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Rural Development or a related discipline from
a recognized university.
(i) At least 6 years working experience in a similar field;
(j) Fluency in English and Kiswahili
Agronomists (AGR)–Nakuru or Siakago Town (Ref. AGR11N or AGR11S)
Reporting to the Value Chain Specialist, there will be one AGR each in Nakuru and Siakago Town,
focussing on the Maize and Sorghum/Millet value chain respectively.
Responsibilities
(a) Being the interface between KARI and KCEP in the adaptation of technologies for
smallholder application;
(b) Facilitating the technology dissemination activities undertaken by KARI, the country advisory
services and other partners;
(c) Facilitating the capacity building activities of agro-dealers by various partners on technical
issues.
Qualifications
(a) Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture with specialization in Agronomy. A relevant post graduate
qualification will be an advantage;
(b) 6 years’ experience as an Agronomist in a research station, public or private farm;
(c) Experience in providing advisory services in a public or private sector setting;
(d) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
(e) Fluency in English and Kiswahili.
M&E/KM Officers (MKM) - Nakuru or Siakago Town (Ref. MKM12N or MKM12S)
Reporting to the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, there will be one MKM each in Nakuru
and Siakago Town, focussing on the Maize and Sorghum/Millet value chain respectively.
Responsibilities
(i) Developing and running an M&E system and associated Management Information System
for managing data and information for overall monitoring, and for the collection and analysis
of data on programme achievements and impact, based on a set of gender disaggregated
indicators in line with the programme logical framework and stakeholders’ information
needs;
(j) Organization and supervision of focused baseline surveys at the beginning of the
programme;
(k) Coordinating the preparation and monitoring the implementation of the AWPB;
(l) Ensuring that all participating institutions keep records on their activities and feed this
information into the Programme Learning System;
(m) Developing a simple reporting system for the monitoring of programme activities and
preparing regular reports on implementation progress, performance and impact of
operations;
(n) Set up term of reference and conduct studies to assess the impact of the programme
(o) Organization of training on M&E for members of the PCU, implementing partners and
counties, and providing technical backstopping to implementing agencies for preparing the
AWPBs and for compliance with reporting requirements;
(p) Undertake any other duty assigned by the KMO.
Qualifications
(g) Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, or a related field from a recognized university. A
post graduate diploma/certificate in MIS or M&E will be an added advantage;
(h) At least 6 years’ working experience at management in M&E of donor-funded programmes
(i) At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly
responsible for:
iv.
v.
vi.
vii.
viii.
ix.
Identifying programme output and outcome indicators that are coherent with the
sector medium term plans and the local development plan (CIDPs)
Conducting a base line survey for selected indicators
Developing an M&E system for the programme
Organizing the communication on the result of the M&E
Preparing terms of reference for the above.
Fluency in English and Kiswahili
(j) Ability to use advanced computer packages for quantitative and qualitative analysis and data
base storage;
(k) Good knowledge and experience on the project cycle related activities and developments in
the sector;
(l) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
Accountants (ACC) – Nakuru or Siakago Town (Ref. ACC13N or ACC13S)
Reporting to the SAC, there will be one ACC each in Nakuru and Siakago Town.
Responsibilities
(l) Preparation of programme accounts;
(m) Preparation and submission of periodical financial reports;
(n) Vverification of supplier’s invoices for payment, including service providers’ requests for
funds, and timely implementation of payment procedures;
(o) Timely posting of all project accounting vouchers on the accounting software;
(p) Exercise proper custody of all posted vouchers and other accounting documents;
(q) Preparation of withdrawal applications;
(r) Replenishment of operational account with programme bank account.
(s) Facilitate financial audits and implementation support missions;
(t) Regular sharing of account printouts by components to the heads of component for analysis
and comments;
(u) Advice to management on accounting and administration matters;
(v) Any other duty assigned by the FMA.
Qualifications
(g) Bachelors’ degree in accounting and finance from a recognised institution plus a professional
accounting qualification (CPA(K), ACCA or equivalent).
(h) At least 5 years’ practical experience in a project financial management unit and acquainted
with accounting procedures in the public administration sector or with internationally
financed projects;
(i) Previous experience with Donor-funded procedures and financial regulations would be an
added advantage;
(j) Good knowledge of computer applications in accounting such as TOMPRO, PASTEL, SUN;
(k) Used to work under pressure and meet crucial deadlines;
(l) Fluency (reading, writing and speaking) in English and in Kiswahili.
APPLICATION PROCESS
1. Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the above positions. Female
candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
2. Each application should be accompanied by a CV and cover letter indicating the Reference
Number for the position. The prescribed format of the CV should be downloaded from the
ministry’s website: www.kilimo.go.ke/downloads/Resources Applicants for positions in the
Nakuru or Siakago Town sub-units should clearly indicate the preference (Nakuru or Siakago)
as in the reference numbers. Photocopies of Identity Card and relevant certificates and
credentials should be enclosed.
3. Those who had previously applied should re-apply if they meet the qualifications
4. Each application in a sealed envelope should be addressed to:
The Principal Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries
State Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 30028-00100,
Nairobi.
The applications should be received by Friday, 10th October 2014 at 10.00am. Only Shortlisted
candidates will be notified.