Consultant - Technical- ISFM – Soil Values – Office of Programs at International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC)

About Project/Program 

• Soil Values is funded by the Netherlands Directorate General for International Cooperation (D.G.I.S), this program addresses persistent soil fertility challenges in the Sahel region, namely Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, northern Nigeria, Ghana and Ivory Coast. Soil Values aim to strengthen agricultural resilience to climate change with a focus on regional connectivity and strategic interventions. The program aims to achieve lasting impact in the fight against desertification and land degradation, landscape management watersheds through participatory planning, effectively integrating soil, water and biodiversity. Efforts will be made to promote financial incentive instruments, encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable soil management practices. 

Scope of Services  

• Farmers Capacity Building and Community Engagement; 
• Field Technical Support; 
• Activities Implementation and Coordination. 

Requirements 

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agricultural Extension, Agronomy, crop science or a related field; 
• Strong knowledge of agricultural practices, crop management, and sustainable farming techniques; 
• Excellent in communication, technical writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills; 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; 
• Proficiency in using computer applications and digital tools for communication / data analysis and be comfortable in presentations; 
• Fluency in Hausa Language will be an added advantage. 

Key Deliverables 

• Conduct workshops, seminars, and field demonstrations to train extension agents and farmers on bundled technologies on ISFM and SWC to improve Soil health; 
• Support identified national partners in conducting trainings on identified bundled technologies; 
• Coordinate the delivery of extension services, including training, demonstrations, and field visits; 
• Build trust and strong relationships with farmers and community leaders;  
• Work with local extension agents and community-based organizations to reach target beneficiaries; 
• Offer on-site advice and support to farmers on issues such as pest control, integrated soil fertility management, soil and water conservation, crop selection, and irrigation practices; 
• Promote the adoption of innovative and sustainable soil health management practices; 
• Support the development of technical briefs, training materials, and field reports;       
• Provide technical support to the MELS Coordinator.