Senior Technical Advisor Development of a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for Jubbaland State

TERMS OF REFERENCE

State-level Senior Technical Advisor

Development of a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for Jubbaland State

1. BACKGROUND

The European Union – Somalia Technical Assistance and Partnership Facility (TAPF) is a three-year initiative designed to support the European Union Delegation (EUD) to Somalia’s engagement in and cooperation with the Federal Republic of Somalia, and to expedite progress towards achievement of the 2030 global Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The project is being implemented through a service contract, signed between the EUD and DAI Global Belgium, and operates from DAIs offices in Mogadishu and Nairobi.

The project duration runs for an initial total term of 36 months, from 1^st January 2024, through to 31^st December 2026.

It is resourced and implemented by a full-time Key Expert 1 / Team Leader and a full-time Key Expert 2: Partnership Advisor, complemented by seven full-time State-level Coordinators (six of whom have been in place and operational for a period of almost a year, including a Jubbaland State Level Coordinator (SLC), based in Kismayo).

In addition, the project has an allocation of short-term, non-key expert days divided into three categories, which are (respectively): State Level Senior Technical Advisors (1,500 working days in total), Senior Non-key Experts (850 working days) and Junior Non-key Experts (1,000 working days), to fulfil demand-driven tasks in accordance with the project’s overall Terms of Reference and in line with its “facility” modus.

Key experts are supported by in-country administrative staff in Mogadishu (and in Nairobi, if required), responsible for local administration, operational logistics and financial management, while overall project delivery is underpinned and supervised by DAI’s backstopping team and support service, based in Europe.

2.  OBJECTIVES

2.1 TAPF Project Objectives

The TAPF has three main result areas:

1. Strengthening the capacity of the Government of Somalia, at both Federal and State levels, and in particular the Federal Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development (MoPIED), to deliver on its mandate, with respect to the National Transformation Plan (NTP), and the wider development agenda.
2. Strengthening identification, formulation, implementation and monitoring of European Union funded programmes in Somalia, covering renewable energy, the environment, climate change adaptation and natural resources management, amongst other topics.
3. Enhancing partnerships and the facilitation of policy dialogue on key topics for EU-Somalia cooperation.

The project is expected to deliver a range of technical support activities structured around these result areas, in relation to both Federal (FGS) and Federal Member State (FMS) institutions, selected non-state actors, and the EUD itself. Deliverables may include multi-stakeholder engagement activities, including community consultations, planning, project and programme design, technical studies and analyses, policy formulation and advisory support, cross-cutting thematic analyses, and monitoring and evaluation activities.

2.2 General Assignment Objectives

Jubbaland State, located in the south of Somalia, is one of the Federal Member States (FMS) established under Somalia’s federal system of governance. It comprises the regions of Gedo, Lower Jubba and Middle Jubba, with Kismayo as its administrative capital.

The state is strategically located, sharing international borders with Kenya to the west and Ethiopia to the north, and has access to the Indian Ocean through its port city of Kismayo. This unique geographical location provides economic opportunities with respect to trade, agriculture, livestock production, fisheries, and other forms of cross-border commerce.

Unfortunately, despite these several advantages, Jubbaland currently operates in a complex development context, characterised by serious post-conflict recovery challenges, fragile governance institutions and underdeveloped infrastructure, resulting in limited access to basic services for its population, further exacerbated by climate-related shocks. In addition, the region continues to experience insecurity due to the presence of the al-Shabaab (aS) terror group (though recent progress in security stabilisation and state-building has created a more “enabling environment” for constructive development planning and implementation).

In this context, the Jubbaland State Development Plan (SDP) 2025–2029 (which is currently being compiled, and which will be the third SDP in the sequence) will provide a framework by which to guide the state’s development trajectory over the next five years. In doing so, it will articulate Jubbaland’s strategic vision and priorities, in alignment with Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (NTP) 2025-2029, Centennial Vision 2060 (CV2060), and the broader national agenda.

Where feasible, the SDP will provide a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable development, state-building and promotion and enhancement of resilience, ensuring inclusive economic growth, improved service delivery, environmental sustainability, and the consolidation of peace.

As part of the state-level planning process, the Jubbaland State Ministry of Planning, Investment and International Cooperation (MoPIIC) has developed a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) policy and recognises the urgent need for a comprehensive M&E Framework, to enhance evidence-based decision-making; to track the progress of development priorities, and to strengthen accountability and transparency, in both public sector and NGO (non-governmental organisation) development performance; as an effective mechanism for measuring, reporting, and evaluating progress remains somewhat elusive.

As proposed, the M&E Framework will provide a unified system by which to monitor the implementation of state priorities, assess development results, and ensure alignment with the National M&E Framework, National Transformation Plan (NTP) and global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To support this process, two Non-key Experts (NKEs) will be recruited to design, articulate and formulate a comprehensive M&E Framework, that is expected to:

• Enhance institutional capacity for evidence-based policy and planning development.
• Improve coordination and reporting mechanisms across ministries.
• Strengthen accountability and transparency in public sector performance.
• Align M&E practices with the upcoming State Development Plan III, federal NTP and global SDGs.

2.3 Specific Assignment Objectives

The overall objective of the assignment for development of a monitoring and evaluation framework for Jubbaland State is:

• To develop a comprehensive and participatory M&E Framework that strengthens the planning, implementation, and performance tracking of Jubbaland’s development programmes and projects.

The specific objectives of the assignment are to:

• Devise, design and establish a results-based M&E system, that is consistent and compliant with national and international standards.
• Define clear indicators, baselines, and targets for state-level monitoring, aligned with SDP III and NTP indicators.
• Strengthen institutional capacity within MoPIIC, and other Jubbaland line ministries, for M&E implementation.
• Ensure effective stakeholder participation, inclusive government institutions, community representatives, NGOs and other partners.
• Validate and institutionalise the M&E Framework through inclusive consultations and stakeholder training.

On completion, expected outputs will comprise:

• A comprehensive and actionable M&E Framework for use by Jubbaland State.
• A validated set of performance indicators and a results matrix.
• A set of practical and workable M&E data collection and reporting tools.
• A capacity development plan to enhance and promote M&E implementation in the state.
• Training for MoPIIC and line ministry staffs.

The above deliverables will be achieved through a consultative and participatory process that actively involves all the relevant stakeholders (in which process the Non-key Expert (NKE) will work closely with the TAPF State Level Coordinator (SLC) and the Jubbaland State MoPIIC senior management (DG, departmental Directors, etc.) to review existing documents and data; collect and review new data; formulate templates, and construct a comprehensive, practical M&E Framework, to complement and support the existing M&E Policy).

Where they exist and where required, the NKE will collaborate with relevant Ministerial Working Groups to ensure that the M&E Framework is aligned with the third Jubbaland State Development Plan, 2025–2029.

3.  SCOPE

3.1 General

Working closely with appropriate authorities at state level (MoPIIC senior management and ministerial working groups, where they exist), and with TAPF Key Experts (KE1 and KE2) and Non-key Experts (the Jubbaland State Level Coordinator – SLC), and coordinating between the State Ministry of Planning, Investment and International Cooperation and other ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), the NKE will assist in the design, preparation (through data analysis), draft formulation and subsequent validation of the Jubbaland State M&E Framework, thus helping to create a comprehensive, inclusive, fully formed and effective state monitoring and evaluation mechanism.

Formulation of the Jubbaland M&E Framework will pass through a number of data collection and review, and drafting phases, including organisation of a number of content-specific consultation / data collection workshops, which will be convened and conducted in both Kismayo (Lower Jubba) and Dolow (Gedo), and a final validation workshop (to be conducted in Kismayo), where all relevant stakeholders will contribute their ideas to development of the final M&E Framework, to enhance inclusivity and to promote a sense of common ownership.

The sectoral Non-key Expert will incorporate feedback gathered during these various consultation and validation workshops into the evolving draft document, identifying pillar-specific gaps and challenges hindering the effective operation of M&E systems.

3.2 Target Groups

The work of the TAPF benefits Somali citizens through increasing the effectiveness of EU cooperation with Somalia, including (in this case) support for the project development planning and implementation process.

The M&E Framework Development NKE will work with and be based in the Ministry of Planning, Investment and International Cooperation in Kismayo, but will liaise and coordinate with other relevant FMS institutions. The NKE will also interact with non-state actors, such as civil society organisations and other interest groups, facilitating their participation in dialogue and Framework development activities, e.g. sectoral analysis, consultations and validation events.

3.3 Specific Activities

The Expert is expected to undertake and complete the following tasks:

• Desk Review: Analysis of existing documents (policies, and M&E systems) at both state and national levels.

o   Conduct a detailed review of the M&E Framework Concept Note, existing Jubbaland State policies, legal frameworks, sector-specific performance data, research, studies, etc.

o   Formulate and propose a suitable M&E Framework format and design.

Expected duration: 4 working days (for inception meetings and desk review of documents).

• Stakeholder Consultations: Discussion workshops at central and regional levels, to gather inputs and design the framework structure. Activities will include stakeholder mapping, design of consultation tools and instruments and conducting consultation workshops.

o   Develop data collection tools to capture inputs from diverse stakeholders (MDAs, CSOs, the private sector, elders, etc.) during consultation events.

o   Conduct a series of three (3) 2-day stakeholder consultation meetings (two (2) in Kismayo (Lower Jubba) and one (1) in Dolow (Gedo Region)), with a specific focus on collecting information relevant to the local context.

Expected duration: 12 working days (excluding travel days, etc.).

• Data Collection: Focus group discussions and interviews, etc.

o   Conduct a stakeholder mapping exercise among development practitioners and partners, to capture diverse stakeholder perspectives from government ministries, departments and agencies and, separately, with development partners.

Expected duration: combined with and made up of the 12 working days noted above.

• Framework Drafting: Development of a results-based M&E Framework, including log frame, indicators, reporting templates, and defined institutional roles.

o   Develop an initial draft of the M&E Framework, extracting and adapting content from the State M&E Policy and outlining strategic objectives, implementation mechanisms and monitoring indicators.

o   Liaise with relevant MDAs and research institutions, to harmonise the objectives of the M&E Framework with development sector goals and accepted best practice.

o   Revise the draft based on stakeholder feedback, working group discussions, and technical reviews.

o   Produce a final, comprehensive M&E Framework that aligns with State Development Plan, the national vision and international standards.

Expected duration: 6 working days (for preparation of first, complete draft).

• Validation and Finalisation: Preparation of and conducting a Stakeholder Validation Workshop, to finalise and endorse the draft framework.

o   Organise and conduct / facilitate a State M&E Framework “validation” workshop in Kismayo, involving key stakeholders from state and civil society MDAs.

Expected duration: 3 working days (one day for preparation and two to conduct the workshop).

• Capacity Building: Train MoPIIC staff and line ministries on M&E implementation and reporting.

o   Build staff capacity in the monitoring / evaluation sphere, by conducting an MDA staff orientation session in the use of M&E methodologies and tools (and provide mentoring to MDA staff and junior professionals during the entirety of the assignment / Framework formulation process).

Expected duration: 5 working days (for preparation of training materials and introduction of M&E Framework to government ministry staff).

4.   DELIVERABLES AND REPORTING

The following deliverables will contribute to and result in successful implementation of the M&E technical assistance assignment:

• Preparation of an assignment methodology road map, in the form of an “inception report” summarising the Framework development strategy.
• Conducting a detailed desk review of existing policies, legal frameworks, programme evaluations, research papers and studies, and performance data (working with public institutions and / or other stakeholders, to ensure that data is credible and actionable.
• Convening and facilitating three (3) distinct stakeholder consultations, in Kismayo (2) and Dolow, each engaging with government and community leaders, civil society organisations, and non-state actors, thus ensuring a productive dialogue between technical experts, policymakers and key stakeholders.
• Provision of workshop facilitation or co-facilitation services, in relation to targeted stakeholder consultations (and validation events).
• Developing and compiling an initial draft of the M&E Framework, outlining strategic objectives, policy priorities, implementation frameworks and monitoring indicators.
• Organising and conducting / facilitating a final “Framework validation workshop”, involving key stakeholders from state institutions and civil society organisations.
• Revising the draft document, based on stakeholder feedback, working group discussions, and technical reviews.
• Producing a final, comprehensive M&E Framework that aligns with the State Development Plan and the national vision, SDGs, etc.
• Preparing and submitting an end-of-mission narrative report.
• Timely handover of the Framework document, and other relevant materials, for uploading to the TAPF internal SharePoint platform, and timely handover of financial and administrative records to administrative support staff, in line with DAI and EUD regulations.

5.   SUPERVISION

The M&E Framework Development NKE will be answerable to the Director General (DG) of the Jubbaland State Ministry of Planning, Investment and International Cooperation (MoPIIC), working in collaboration with the TAPF State Level Coordinator (SLC), and will be supervised by the TAPF Team Leader, in close collaboration with the TAPF KE2 / Partnership Advisor.

Time sheets will be approved by the TAPF Team Leader and the EU Delegation (EUD).

6.   LOGISTICS

The assignment will be implemented from the MoPIIC office in Kismayo, Jubbaland State.

Travel to selected districts within Jubbaland State will be required, to conduct consultations and other data collection activities, subject to relevant project and EU rules and regulations, including security protocols and the outcome of contemporary security assessments.

The TAPF Office Manager, based in Mogadishu, and the DAI Project Manager, based in Brussels, will support the M&E Framework Development NKE with operational and administrative issues, as required.

The working language of the assignment and contract will be English, and all communication and reports will be submitted in English.

7.   EXPERT QUALIFICATIONS / SELECTION CRITERIA

The M&E Framework Development Non-key Expert (NKE) should possess:

• A university degree (preferably a Master’s) in one of the following fields: Public Administration, Business Administration, International Development, Public Policy Development, Political Science, Project Monitoring, or a related field.
• Eight (8) or more years of practical work experience in a senior advisory capacity with an international organisation, private sector company, non-governmental organisation or government institution, including at least three (3) previous assignments as a monitoring officer monitoring organisational or company-level implementation plans.
• Previous work experience as a TA or CTA (technical assistant / chief technical advisor), embedded within a host government department, inclusive mentoring and capacity development experience, leading the development, implementation and / or monitoring of policies, strategies and operational plans.
• Previous experience (in at least three (3) work assignments) of workshop organisation and facilitation, inclusive in-depth knowledge of and familiarity with focus group discussions, key informant interviews and other interactive data collection methodologies, and moderating workshop plenaries.
• Clear and demonstrable understanding and in-depth knowledge of Results Based Management (RBM), Participatory Planning and Monitoring (PPM) or other management and monitoring techniques.
• Strong communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and spoken / verbal communication skills in both English and Somali.
• Strong organisational and analytical skills.
• Extensive knowledge of the local (Somali) development context.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities effectively.

Only shortlisted candidate will be contacted.