Join the Fight Against Malnutrition: Specialist Role in Vegetable Variety Scaling at GIZ

Join the Fight Against Malnutrition: Specialist Role in Vegetable Variety Scaling at

Specialist – Vegetable Variety Scaling (WorldVeg, Benin)

As Integrated Expert

Your Opportunity:
The World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg), an international nonprofit research and development institute, is dedicated to alleviating poverty and malnutrition in developing countries by increasing the production and consumption of nutritious and health-promoting vegetables. Established in 1971, WorldVeg has been at the forefront of scientific innovation, research, and development efforts aimed at improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and enhancing food security and nutrition across the globe. WorldVeg works in collaboration with a range of partners including governments, research institutions, private sector companies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities to achieve its mission.

In recent years, WorldVeg has intensified its focus on Africa, recognizing the continent’s potential for significant agricultural transformation. Africa’s diverse agro-ecological zones and rich biodiversity present unique opportunities for vegetable breeding and cultivation. However, challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, limited access to quality seeds, and inadequate agricultural practices hinder productivity and sustainability. WorldVeg aims to address these challenges by promoting improved vegetable varieties that are resilient, high-yielding, and nutritious.

This role supports WorldVeg in spreading improved vegetable varieties across Africa, enhancing smallholder farming through these varieties. The Africa Vegetable Breeding Consortium (AVBC) aims to bring together national breeding firms to utilize improved vegetable varieties and explore new market segments. The initiative focuses on empowering women in vegetable research and developing the capacity of national seed companies. The AVBC serves as a platform for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among stakeholders in the vegetable breeding sector. It fosters partnerships between public and private sector entities, encourages the adoption of modern breeding techniques, and supports the development of new vegetable varieties that meet the specific needs of African farmers and consumers.

Your Tasks:

1. Promote Vegetable Breeding in Africa: Drive the efforts of the Africa Vegetable Breeding Consortium (AVBC) and other channels to enhance vegetable breeding across Africa. This includes coordinating with national breeding firms, research institutions, and other stakeholders to identify and prioritize breeding objectives, develop breeding strategies, and implement breeding programs. You will also be responsible for facilitating the exchange of germplasm, breeding materials, and knowledge among consortium members to accelerate the development and dissemination of improved vegetable varieties.
2. Develop Internship Programs: Create new internship programs to promote women in vegetable research in Africa and conduct workshops to develop the capacity of vegetable seed companies. This involves designing and implementing training programs, mentorship initiatives, and career development opportunities for young female scientists and professionals in the field of vegetable breeding and seed systems. You will work closely with educational institutions, research organizations, and industry partners to provide hands-on training, practical experience, and networking opportunities for interns.
3. Market Analysis and Research: Prepare a market analysis report on vegetable crops and a research report on constraints and opportunities in the vegetable seed sector in sub-Saharan Africa. This includes conducting comprehensive market studies, analyzing supply and demand trends, assessing the competitive landscape, and identifying market gaps and growth opportunities. You will also be responsible for evaluating the socio-economic impact of improved vegetable varieties on smallholder farmers, rural communities, and local economies.
4. Innovation and Scaling: Collaborate with other GIZ team members and partners to develop approaches to innovation and scaling. This involves identifying and promoting innovative technologies, practices, and business models that can enhance the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of vegetable farming systems in Africa. You will work with stakeholders to design and implement pilot projects, scale up successful interventions, and disseminate best practices and lessons learned to a wider audience.

Your Profile:Specialist – Vegetable Variety Scaling

• Educational Background: Master’s or Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Economics, Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, Sociology, or a related field. A strong academic background in plant breeding, genetics, agronomy, or related disciplines is essential for understanding the scientific principles and methodologies involved in vegetable breeding and seed systems.
• Professional Experience: Minimum of 5 years of work experience in African agriculture, focusing on vegetables and seed systems, including managing agricultural projects. Experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives, managing research and development programs, and implementing capacity-building activities is highly desirable. Familiarity with the agricultural policies, regulations, and institutions in sub-Saharan Africa is an advantage.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: At least 5 years of active collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector, and non-governmental organizations. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective partnerships, facilitate dialogue and cooperation, and negotiate and manage conflicts is crucial for the success of this role. Experience in working with international development organizations, donors, and funding agencies is also beneficial.
• Market Analysis Skills: Experience in conducting market analyses and developing tailored marketing strategies. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in statistical tools and software, and the ability to interpret and present complex data and information are required. Knowledge of market research methodologies, value chain analysis, and business development principles is essential for identifying market opportunities and designing effective marketing strategies.
• Communication and Leadership: Proven experience in communication and leadership in diverse African settings, with an understanding of socio-economic dynamics. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write reports, prepare presentations, and engage with diverse audiences. Strong leadership and team management skills, including the ability to motivate and inspire team members, delegate tasks, and provide constructive feedback.
• Language Proficiency: Excellent English and French language skills. Proficiency in additional African languages is an asset and can enhance your ability to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and communities.

What We Offer:Specialist – Vegetable Variety Scaling

• Varied Responsibilities: Engaging tasks with individual responsibility in an international environment. You will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of activities, from scientific research and project management to capacity building and stakeholder engagement. Each day will bring new challenges and opportunities for learning and growth.
• Collaboration: Work with other development cooperation organizations. You will collaborate with experts from GIZ, other international development agencies, research institutions, and private sector partners to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks. This collaborative approach will enhance the impact and sustainability of your work.
• Professional Preparation: Comprehensive preparation for overseas deployment. You will receive professional training and orientation to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence needed for successful deployment in Africa. This includes language training, technical courses, and briefings on the local context and working environment.
• Local Placement: Initial placement with a local employer as an Integrated Expert for two years, with possible extension. You will be embedded within a local organization, working closely with national counterparts and stakeholders to achieve common goals. This placement will provide you with a deep understanding of the local context, challenges, and opportunities, and enable you to make a meaningful and lasting impact.
• Attractive Benefits: Competitive monthly allowances in addition to local salary and social benefits. You will receive a competitive compensation package that includes a base salary, housing allowance, health insurance, and other benefits. This package is designed to ensure your well-being and enable you to focus on your work without financial concerns.

About Us:Specialist – Vegetable Variety Scaling
The Center for International Migration and Development (CIM) is your ideal partner for finding a responsible and developmentally relevant role. We place highly qualified personnel with employers in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Europe. You can apply your knowledge and skills where they are most needed. In cooperation with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH – www.giz.de – CIM has combined development and labor market policy expertise since 1980.

CIM is committed to promoting sustainable development, social equity, and economic growth in developing countries. We believe that access to high-quality seeds and improved vegetable varieties is essential for achieving food security, nutrition, and poverty reduction in Africa. Our work is guided by principles of innovation, partnership, and inclusivity. We strive to create an enabling environment where smallholder farmers, women, and marginalized communities can thrive and realize their full potential.

By joining CIM as an Integrated Expert, you will become part of a dynamic and dedicated team that is passionate about making a difference. You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with leading experts, and contribute to transformative change in the agricultural sector. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an emerging talent, we welcome you to apply and be part of our mission to create a better future for all.

Specialist – Vegetable Variety Scaling

Contact:
HR Service Center
hrsc@giz.de

Keywords: Vegetable Variety Scaling, WorldVeg, Benin, Africa Vegetable Breeding Consortium, AVBC, Smallholder Farming, Women Empowerment, Vegetable Research, National Seed Companies, Market Analysis, Agricultural Projects, Socio-Economic Dynamics, Development Cooperation, GIZ, CIM.

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