Introduction

The African Forest Forum (AFF), established in 2007, is a pan-African non-political, non-governmental, and not-for-profit organization committed to the sustainable management, wise use, and conservation of Africa’s forest and tree resources. AFF provides independent analysis and advice to national, regional, and international stakeholders on how forests and trees can contribute to livelihoods, economies, and environmental stability.

In partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), AFF is implementing the project: “Scaling Youth-Led Climate Innovations for a Greener Africa: Enhancing Compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) through Sustainable Land Management and Landscape Restoration.”

This study will assess how the EUDR affects youth and vulnerable forest-dependent communities in Ghana, Ethiopia, and Kenya, while identifying opportunities for capacity building and inclusive participation in sustainable, deforestation-free value chains.

Background

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) (EU 2023/1115) bans the import and export of commodities linked to deforestation and forest degradation. While it promotes deforestation-free supply chains, African countries face challenges due to limited preparation time, capacity gaps, and stringent traceability requirements.

Evidence shows that without urgent investment in compliance readiness, youth and vulnerable communities dependent on forest-related livelihoods risk exclusion from global markets. This includes smallholder farmers, youth entrepreneurs, charcoal and timber traders, cocoa and coffee producers, and those engaged in agroforestry and restoration.

To address this, AFF seeks to assess the impact of EUDR on youth livelihoods and vulnerable forest communities in Ghana, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and to identify opportunities for resilience, equitable participation, and sustainable value chains.

Objectives of the Consultancy

The consultant will:

  • Assess the level of understanding and perceived implications of EUDR among youth groups, smallholders, cooperatives, and forest-dependent communities.
  • Map the livelihood dependencies and economic activities most at risk.
  • Review existing youth engagement policies, traceability systems, PPP initiatives, and climate policies in relation to EUDR.
  • Examine socio-economic impacts of EUDR on youth entrepreneurship, employment, and market access.
  • Document approaches and strategies used to mitigate risks.
  • Identify opportunities for youth and communities in deforestation-free value chains.
  • Recommend interventions to strengthen resilience, safeguard livelihoods, and improve compliance.

Deliverables

  • Inception Report (detail methodology and work plan)
  • Three stand-alone EUDR Impact assessment draft reports focusing on youth livelihoods and employment for each country and regional synthesis report
  • Final EUDR country impact reports based on the ToRs for the three countries highlighting risks, opportunities and resilience strategies for youths and vulnerable communities and synthesized regional report with recommendations
  • EUDR response guideline and factsheet for stakeholders in each country and product types

Qualifications

  • Advanced degree in Natural Resource Economics, Forestry, Environmental Studies, Development Studies, Public Policy, or related field (PhD an advantage).
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in policy impact assessments and commodity supply chains (palm oil, cocoa, coffee, soy, timber, livestock, etc.).
  • Demonstrated expertise in forest policy, youth livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and socio-economic assessments in Africa.
  • Experience working on EUDR or similar sustainability standards.
  • Strong analytical and report writing skills in English.

Duration of the Assignment

The workload of this assignment is one and a half (1.5) man-months, commencing on September 15, 2025, and could spread over a maximum of two and half (2.5) months; the deliverables should be submitted no later than November 30, 2025. The expert will work from his/her own location but be in close consultation with relevant staff at the AFF Secretariat while keeping to an agreed delivery schedule.

Deadlines

Applications must be received by the AFF Secretariat on or before 8th of September 2025. Consultancy activities must begin no later than September 15, 2025.

How to apply

Please email, quoting the title and number of this consultancy on the subject line and attach a proposal containing:

  • Cover letter stating how you meet the above qualifications and experience requirements.
    • A methodological note (of 4 pages max) indicating for each key result area, corresponding    specific activities and methodology for executing them;
    • A data matrix listing information needs plotted against data sources;
    • A draft work plan (clear deliverables plotted against work weeks for each key result);
    • A tentative table of contents for the technical report with corresponding number of pages; and
    • An updated CV.

Please apply, with the subject line: “CONSULTANCY SERVICES “Assessment of the Impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on the livelihoods of Youths and Vulnerable Forest Communities in Africa” and submit your application to Tefera Belay Endalamaw at  t.endalamaw@cifor-icraf.org, Dr. Doris Mutta at d.mutta@cifor-icraf.org  with a copy to exec.sec@afforum.org

Application deadline is 10 September 2025. Only successful applicants will be contacted.

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