The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. As part of its mission, UNEP is a key partner of the United Nations Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (UN-REDD Programme), which includes the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The objective of this consultancy is to provide technical backstopping to deliver UNEP’s safeguards activities in Africa based on UN-REDD annual workplans for the remainder of 2024 and 2025. The consultant will work under the supervision of UNEP UN-REDD Programme Coordinator for the Africa region and the Safeguards Programme Officer. The consultant will perform the following tasks:

1. Provide technical advice to guide the implementation of in-country safeguards activities for the Africa region in the supported countries (namely Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Uganda, Zambia, and other if determined), in line with the UN- REDD annual workplan agreed with the respective Governments.

2. Provide advice to strengthen the implementation of policies and actions defined for addressing and respecting REDD+ safeguards in supported countries.

3. Develop tools and guide their application to encourage efficient and transparent safeguards reporting, linked to countries’ national Safeguards Information Systems.

4. Identify safeguards-related strategic opportunities, needs and gaps to contribute to the planning process in line with the UN-REDD Results Framework for the 2021-2025 period.

5. Develop terms of reference and provide technical backstopping on the deliverables of the consultants working on safeguards, hired by the Programme.

6. Provide input on safeguards to UNEP and UN-REDD semi-annual and annual reporting. 7. Identify actions and recommendations for strengthening the application of safeguards at the national, subnational and local level in supported countries of the Africa region.

8. Plan the development of capacity building efforts in supported countries related to safeguards related topics, in close coordination with the country focal points.

9. Support the UN-REDD Africa focal point and the communications and knowledge management team, by developing materials to enhance the visibility of the Programme, internally at UNEP and externally, with partners.

10. Help organize and develop safeguards content of knowledge exchange events.

11. Organize and participate in country missions to liaise with and support national counterparts and other partners involved in REDD+.

An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental science, social science, forest policy, forest management, natural resources management, international development, environmental economics or related field is required. A first-level university degree in the above-mentioned fields, in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.

– A minimum of five years REDD+, forestry and climate mitigation, forest policy, forest management, climate change, ecosystem management or related fields is required.

– Experience in project design is also required – Previous experience working in the African region is desired, including advising governments, engaging with stakeholders at the local level and partnering with diverse public and civil society stakeholders.

– Experience in understanding social issues associated with forest and natural resources management is desirable. – Understanding of laws and national policies associated with the forestry sector and human rights is desirable.

– Track record in social/environmental safeguards (e.g. to build capacity, ensure compliance, implement safeguards measures, etc.), more specifically related to the REDD+ mechanism would be an advantage.

– Prior work experience with an international organization is an advantage Skills:

– Strong practical background on risk assessment and /or environmental impact assessment,

– Knowledge of report writing and editing,

– Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office,

– Good communication, adaptability and time management skills,

– Ability to identify priorities and to work under tight deadlines is desirable,

– Excellent sense of teamwork,

– Knowledge of conflict resolution and grievance redress mechanisms is an asset.