The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (United Nations Economic Commission for Africa) has announced the recruitment of five national consultants to support a major regional initiative focused on digital innovation in agriculture and trade. This opportunity targets professionals from Comoros, Congo Brazzaville, Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, and Uganda, and aims to strengthen food security through the use of modern digital technologies under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
This consultancy is part of a broader development agenda designed to improve agricultural productivity, enhance food distribution systems, and reduce food insecurity across Africa. The assignment is highly relevant for experts in digital economy, agriculture, and development policy who are interested in contributing to sustainable food systems.
The application deadline for this opportunity is 12 April 2026, and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Background of the Consultancy Program
This initiative is implemented under the guidance of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa as part of its commitment to supporting sustainable development and regional integration in Africa.
The project focuses on addressing persistent challenges in African food systems, including:
- High levels of food insecurity
- Inefficient agricultural value chains
- Limited access to digital trade systems
- Weak market connectivity between surplus and deficit regions
- Post-harvest losses and supply chain inefficiencies
Agriculture remains a critical sector in Africa, employing a large portion of the population and contributing significantly to national economies. However, structural challenges continue to limit productivity and food availability in many countries.
To address these issues, the program promotes the use of digital technologies such as e-commerce platforms, artificial intelligence, mobile-based market systems, digital payment solutions, and data-driven agricultural tools.
Purpose of the Assignment
The primary objective of this consultancy is to support selected African countries in leveraging digital innovation to improve agricultural production and trade systems.
The consultants will contribute to:
- Strengthening digital agricultural systems
- Enhancing regional food trade under AfCFTA
- Improving market access for farmers and traders
- Supporting policy development on digital agriculture
- Reducing information gaps in food markets
The assignment also seeks to evaluate how digital tools influence productivity, food distribution efficiency, and access to markets.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Consultants
The selected national consultants will work closely with international experts and project coordinators to implement key activities in their respective countries.
1. Research and Analytical Work
Consultants will be responsible for conducting detailed assessments of digital agriculture systems, including:
- Reviewing existing digital tools used in agricultural production and trade
- Analyzing national agricultural value chains
- Identifying gaps in digital infrastructure and market access
- Assessing the impact of digital innovations on food systems
- Preparing technical reports and research documents
These studies will form the basis for regional policy recommendations and development strategies.
2. Policy Development and Technical Reporting
The consultants will contribute to the preparation of policy-oriented documents aimed at improving agricultural systems. This includes:
- Drafting national policy briefs on digital agriculture
- Recommending strategies for improving digital trade systems
- Supporting integration of technology in agricultural policies
- Providing technical input for regional studies
These documents are expected to guide government institutions and development partners in decision-making processes.
3. Capacity Building and Training Support
A key component of the consultancy involves strengthening institutional and stakeholder capacity. Consultants will:
- Review existing training materials on digital agriculture
- Support the development of new training content
- Facilitate workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions
- Assist in improving digital skills among stakeholders
The goal is to ensure that governments, farmers, and private sector actors can effectively use digital tools in agricultural production and trade.
4. Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination
Consultants will also support stakeholder engagement activities, including:
- Collaborating with government ministries and agencies
- Engaging private sector actors involved in agriculture and trade
- Coordinating with international development organizations
- Supporting regional and national workshops
These engagements aim to ensure strong collaboration and effective implementation of project activities.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Applicants for this consultancy must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A Master’s degree in economics, agronomy, statistics, sustainable development, or related fields
- A strong background in digital economy, agricultural value chains, or food security analysis
- At least 3 to 5 years of professional experience in relevant sectors
- Experience working on agricultural development projects in Africa is highly desirable
- Knowledge of statistical or econometric analysis is an advantage
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently under minimal supervision
- Experience working with government institutions or international organizations
Fluency in English or French is required depending on the target country.
Work Location and Duration
The consultancy is expected to be home-based with occasional travel depending on project requirements. Selected consultants will work within their respective countries:
- Comoros
- Congo Brazzaville
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Malawi
- Uganda
The duration of the assignment is approximately three months, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is:
12 April 2026
Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications early to avoid technical or administrative delays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should carefully follow the official application process provided by United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
To apply, visit the official job page using the link below:
Before applying, candidates should carefully read all instructions, eligibility criteria, and required documentation.
Typical application documents include:
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates
- Cover letter explaining suitability for the role
- Evidence of relevant experience
- Supporting documents such as reports or publications (if available)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of selection.
Importance of This Opportunity
This consultancy represents a significant opportunity for professionals interested in contributing to Africa’s development agenda. By supporting digital transformation in agriculture, consultants will directly contribute to improving food security, enhancing trade efficiency, and strengthening regional integration under AfCFTA.
The work of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in this area is part of a larger strategy to modernize African economies and ensure sustainable food systems for the future.