Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in October 1945 with the objective of eliminating hunger, improving nutrition and standards of living by increasing agricultural productivity. FAO contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. Accordingly, FAO complements the efforts of governments and technical agencies in programs for developing agriculture, forestry, fisheries, land and water resources. It also carries out research; provides technical assistance on projects in individual countries; operates educational programs through seminars and training centres; maintains information and support services, including keeping statistics on world production, trade, and consumption of agricultural commodities; and publishes a number of periodicals, yearbooks, and research bulletins.

FAO headquarters are in Rome, Italy and the organization has more than 180 members with offices throughout the world. Through the Botswana Office, FAO is collaborating with the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, through Department of Apiculture and Aquaculture to formulate a national policy on aquaculture, which is expected to set out priorities and frameworks for this important sector. Although aquaculture is recognized among several food production sectors with significant potential to contribute to agricultural growth, a national policy to facilitate its strategic development is still lacking. Therefore, the National Aquaculture Policy Expert will work with an international consultant in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders to address the gap.

Reporting Lines

The National Aquaculture Policy Expert will work under the overall managerial and operational guidance of the FAO Representative in Botswana, with technical supervision of the relevant FAO services unit (LTO/LTU), and in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture– Aquaculture and Apiculture Department, and support from a Technical Officer based in FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy as well as guidance from the Project Coordinator.

Technical Focus

Development of a gender-sensitive national aquaculture policy for Botswana, based on issues and options prioritized by stakeholders.

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Conduct a comprehensive review of existing aquaculture activities, policies and regulatory frameworks in Botswana to inform policy development.
•    Identify key challenges, opportunities and suggest strategies for sustainable aquaculture development.
•    Examine the capacity of the Aquaculture Division in terms of extension service delivery and come up with recommendations.
•    Provide technical support during stakeholder consultations, workshops, and meetings to ensure inclusive policy development.
•    Contribute to development of draft policy.
•    Work closely with FAO Botswana, FAO Subregional Office, and FAO International consultants in providing technical support to ensure smooth project implementation.
•    Prepare a structured roadmap for policy formulation, ensuring alignment with government and SADC priorities.
•    Contribute to development of policy implementation plan.
•    Carry out any other tasks relevant to this assignment.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•    Master’s degree in a relevant area such as fisheries, natural resources management, biodiversity management, environmental sciences or other closely related fields
•    Five (5) years of work experience in fisheries management, agriculture or aquaculture development
•    Working knowledge of English
•    National of Botswana or resident of the country with valid work permit

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills 

•    Experience in organizing participatory processes and contribution to processes related to program development through engagement of a wide range of stakeholders from the government, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
•    Experience with development of policies, strategies and environment-based projects.
•    Experience with projects in Botswana is desired.
•    Experience with UN projects is desired.
•    Good analytical, presentation and training skills.
•    Leading, engaging, empowering and an excellent team player.
•    Demonstrated ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks, work under pressure and deliver assignments on time.
•    Knowledge of other language used in Botswana is considered an asset.