TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)
TOR Title
Terms of Reference (TOR) – Consultancy for Commissioning In-Depth Milk Value Chain Study in Somaliland
Project
Somaliland Milk Value Chain Development Project
Start Date
To be determined soon.
Duration
6 Weeks (from contract signing)
Location
Hargeisa, Somaliland
1. JUSTIFICATION
Somaliland’s economy heavily relies on pastoralism, where milk production forms a vital pillar for food security, nutrition, and economic resilience. However, systemic challenges in production, processing, and marketing undermine the sector’s potential.
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) invites competent consultancy firms or individuals to submit their proposals for conducting an in-depth milk value chain study. This initiative aims to map out inefficiencies, identify opportunities, and recommend strategic interventions for a stronger, more sustainable dairy industry in Somaliland.
2. OBJECTIVE
The primary objective is to commission a thorough sectoral study to:
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Map the entire milk value chain from production to consumption.
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Identify major bottlenecks limiting production, processing, and marketing.
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Propose actionable solutions to strengthen the chain’s efficiency, productivity, and market access.
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Advise on policy and institutional frameworks to enable sector growth.
3. SCOPE OF WORK
The selected consultant/firm shall be responsible for:
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Conducting a literature review on Somaliland’s dairy sector.
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Carrying out field assessments at production points, processing centers, and markets.
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Interviewing stakeholders across the value chain: producers, traders, processors, retailers, and regulators.
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Collecting both qualitative and quantitative data.
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Performing SWOT and Gap Analyses.
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Drafting a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations.
4. METHODOLOGY
The consultant is expected to:
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Use participatory research methods.
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Ensure gender and inclusivity sensitivity.
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Validate findings through stakeholder workshops.
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Submit an inception report, draft report, and final validated report.
5. DELIVERABLES
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Inception Report (within 1 week of contract start).
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Field Survey Report and Raw Data Sets.
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Draft Comprehensive Report (after 4 weeks).
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Validation Workshop with Stakeholders.
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Final Report (incorporating workshop feedback).
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Executive Summary Presentation to NRC Management.
6. EXPERIENCES AND QUALIFICATIONS
Mandatory:
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Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Dairy Technology, or related fields.
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Minimum 7-10 years of professional experience in dairy or livestock value chain studies.
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Proven experience conducting similar consultancy assignments with INGOs, UN agencies, or donor-funded programs.
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Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
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Familiarity with Somaliland’s local context and livestock sector dynamics.
7. PROPOSAL EVALUATION CRITERIA
Mandatory Requirements:
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Certified Company Registration (Ministry of Trade & Tourism, Somaliland)
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Valid Tax Compliance Certificate (Ministry of Finance, Somaliland)
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Copy of National Tender Board Registration (if applicable)
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At least two references from similar completed projects
Technical Evaluation:
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Methodology and understanding of assignment – 20 points
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Relevant Experience – 20 points
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Team Qualifications – 20 points
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Work Plan and Timelines – 10 points
Financial Evaluation:
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Competitive and reasonable cost structure – 30 points
8. HOW TO APPLY
Interested and qualified consultants/firms are encouraged to submit their proposals via email to so.procurement@nrc.no by 5th May 2025, 11:59 PM (Hargeisa local time).
Submissions must include three separate documents:
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Mandatory Requirements
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Technical Proposal
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Financial Proposal
NB: Bidders combining all documents in one attachment will be disqualified.
Email Subject Line:
Terms of Reference – Consultancy for Commissioning In-Depth Milk Value Chain Study in Somaliland
Note: NRC reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal without obligation to disclose reasons.
For inquiries and clarifications, contact: so.procurement@nrc.no before 1st May 2025.
