Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) UNDP Tajikistan
INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT PROCUREMENT NOTICE
Country: Tajikistan
Description of Assignment:
The Chief Technical Advisor will assert the position of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) as the lead mine action organization, maximize the potential of TMAC staff and their expertise, streamline TMAC activities, improve working relationships and collaboration with international actors, develop a plan for completing clearance of contaminated land as quickly as possible, and implement an exit strategy.
Project name: Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC)
Period of assignment/services:
Six months with possibility of extension (depends on funding availability)
Type: International Post
Instruction for submission of applications: Please fill out an Application form for IC positions posted on www.undp.tj by following the job vacancies link from this webpage. Please note that no other type of application form will be considered for such positions, other than the one found at the link specified above.
Financial proposal should be submitted by email to ic.tj@undp.org no later than 15 April 2012. Any request for clarification must be sent by standard electronic communication, indicating Post Title in subject Line, to the address ic.tj@undp.org. UNDP Tajikistan will respond by standard electronic mail and will send written copies of the response, including an explanation of the query without identifying the source of inquiry, to all consultants.
1. BACKGROUND
Mine/UXO problem: Tajikistan’s landmines and contamination from explosive remnants of war (ERW) still remains the legacy from various past conflicts and landmines, which are mostly found along the Tajik-Afghan Border (TAB), the Tajik-Uzbek Border (TUB) and the Central Region (CR) of the country. Since 2004, joint collaborative activities of the Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) and the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD), identified approximately 60 sq. km of contaminated land. Demining, technical survey and land release activities resulted in substantial reduction of contaminated land surfaces. However, more than 10 sq. km of the land still remains contaminated along the TAB and CR of Tajikistan. At the same time, the mine problem in TUB cannot be properly documented or surveyed due to security reasons. Only late 2010 the discussions have revived on the mine issues in TUB and there is a hope to start some survey activities in the border areas in 2011.
APMBC and Tajikistan Extension Request for Article 5: Tajikistan acceded to the Ottawa Convention, also called the Mine Ban Treaty (MBT), on 12.10.1999, becoming a State Party on 01.04.2000. Tajikistan complied with the MBT Article 4 obligations by destroying all AP mines stockpiles before April 2004. Tajikistan complied with the Article 7 obligations by providing annual implementation reports to the Disarmament Affairs Department of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG). Tajikistan has been very active in participating in the MBT States Parties Meetings, in the intersessional meetings of the Standing Committees of the Convention as well as in the annual meetings of the Mine Action National Directors and UN Advisors. According to Article 5 of the MBT, Tajikistan has the obligation to destroy all anti-personnel mines on its territory before April 2010. As this has not been considered possible, Tajikistan prepared a detailed request for extending the deadline for completion of the Article 5 obligations. A ten-year extension request has been approved by the State Parties to the Convention during the Cartagena Summit on a Mine-Free World held in Colombia on 29.11-04.12.2009. Tajikistan is also a State Party to the Amended Protocol II and Protocol V to the CCW. Tajikistan has not yet signed or ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
TMAC and Partners: The Tajikistan Mine Action Center (TMAC) was established in June 2003 by agreement between the Government of Tajikistan (GoTaj) and UNDP. TMAC represents the executive arm of the Governmental Commission on the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law, the body, which is able to plan, coordinate and implement all components of mine action programme and oversees all aspects of the mine action programme in Tajikistan in collaboration with the mine action operators, relevant ministries, local authorities/communities and in consultation with UNDP.
UNDP’s “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme” Project: Based on the Strategy vision and goals UNDP has developed its Project Document on “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme”, which aims at promoting the principles of the national ownership, institutional and technical capacity building as well as corresponds to key requirements of the International Mine Action Standards. This Project Document draws a comprehensive roadmap on building on the existing momentum and developing further existing capacity to ensure that Tajikistan complies with its obligations under Ottawa Convention and its protocols. The specific objectives of the project are articulated around the main components of the mine action programme: 1) Support the capacity of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) to coordinate, regulate, plan and monitor all mine action activities in the country; 2) Strengthening the demining operations of the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme; 2) Making change into the mine/ERW victims’ life; 4) Building safe environment for the communities through Mine Risk Education.
2. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary role of the CTA is to provide management, technical advice and liaison ability to UNDP and Tajikistan Mine Action Centre, that is, to guide the management of the project towards nationalization and to liaise with the project’s beneficiaries and stakeholders regarding practical, political, financial and diplomatic aspects of the project. The CTA will also be responsible for building the professional capacity of TMAC staff, as well as advising on technical issues and operational work plans.
It is anticipated that improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of TMAC, brought about by the CTA, will result in a more cost effective programme overall. The programme manager will also be responsible for resource mobilization and, after an initial employment period, will assume responsibility for generating funding for the position.
As well as the provision of technical expertise, this appointment will also imply a number of other responsibilities, as outlined below.
• Raise the profile of TMAC, particularly among non-mine action actors and international actors working in Tajikistan.
• Assert TMAC’s authority over mine action activities and act as the lead organization for developing strategies and work plans.
• Improve resource mobilization and access expertise and resources from national and international actors operating in Tajikistan.
• Review TMAC staffing levels and roles and responsibilities.
• Provide clear direction to staff and help staff to see how they can improve their work.
• Ensure that TMAC focuses on coordination and monitoring and is not involved in implementation.
• Explore ways of mainstreaming mine action into other initiatives.
• Develop an exit strategy which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity.
• Organize regular meetings at national and local levels with relevant actors. Identify new actors that may gain from or have something to offer TMAC and mine action activities.
• Ensure that staff capacity building and international travel are appropriate, benefit TMAC and help it to fulfil its objectives and do not detract from TMAC’s important daily activities
• In consultation with UNDP, GoT, TMAC staff and other key actors, develop and implement a plan to determine TMAC’s status.
3. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
I. Academic Qualifications:
? University degree in Social Science, International Relations, Development and Policy Studies, Political Science or other development related areas;
II. Years of experience:
? At least 10 years of working experience in the area of mine action programming and development;
? Solid understanding of all aspects of mine action and development concepts, and related practices, in both post-conflict and development settings and proven track record in mine action programming;
III. Professional Skills:
? Proven management skills, coupled with strong communication and leadership ability;
? Experience in developing capacities in post-conflict countries;
? Excellent English (both written and oral) and presentation skills; ability to speak clearly and effectively. The successful applicant will be able to adapt the tone, style, and format of communications to successfully interact with audiences at all levels, without prejudice or partiality.
? Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UN procedures is desirable;
? Knowledge of the Russian language would be an asset.
1. DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED WHEN SUBMITTING THE PROPOSALS.
Interested individual consultants must submit the following documents/information to demonstrate their
Qualifications:
• Proposal:
• Explaining why they are the most suitable for the work
• Provide a brief methodology on how they will approach and conduct the work
• Financial proposal
• Personal CV including past experience in similar projects and at least 3 references
4. FINANCIAL PROPOSAL
Lump sum contracts
The financial proposal shall specify a total lump sum amount, and payment terms around specific and measurable (qualitative and quantitative) deliverables (i.e. whether payments fall in installments or upon completion of the entire contract). Payments are based upon output, i.e. upon delivery of the services specified in the TOR. In order to assist the requesting unit in the comparison of financial proposals, the financial proposal will include a breakdown of this lump sum amount (including travel, per diems, and number of anticipated working days).
5. TRAVEL
All envisaged travel costs must be included in the financial proposal. This includes all travel to join duty station/repatriation travel. In general, UNDP shall not accept travel costs exceeding those of an economy class ticket. Should the IC wish to travel on a higher class he/she should do so using their own resources.
In the case of unforeseeable travel, payment of travel costs including tickets, lodging and terminal expenses shall be agreed upon, between UNDP Tajikistan and the contracted Individual Consultant, prior to travel and will be reimbursed.
6. EVALUATION
Individual consultants will be evaluated based on the cumulative analysis methodology. The award of the
Contract shall be made to the individual consultant whose offer has been evaluated and determined as:
a) responsive/compliant/acceptable, and
b) Having received the highest score out of the below set weighted technical and financial criteria.
* Technical Criteria weight – 70%;
* Financial Criteria weight – 30%.
Only candidates obtaining a minimum of 49 points would be considered for the Financial Evaluation.
ANNEX
ANNEX 1 – TERMS OF REFERENCES (TOR)
ANNEX 2 – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Vacancy Announcement
Project: Tajikistan Mine Action Centre
Job Title: Chief Technical Adviser (CTA)
Type of Contract: Individual Contract
Duration of the assignment: Six months with possibility of extension
(depends on funding availability)
Deadline for application: 30 April 2012
Instruction for submission of applications: Please fill out an Application form for IC positions posted on www.undp.tj by following the job vacancies link from this webpage. Please note that no other type of application form will be considered for such positions, other than the one found at the link specified above.
I. Background
Mine/UXO problem: Tajikistan’s landmines and contamination from explosive remnants of war (ERW) still remains the legacy from various past conflicts and landmines, which are mostly found along the Tajik-Afghan Border (TAB), the Tajik-Uzbek Border (TUB) and the Central Region (CR) of the country. Since 2004, joint collaborative activities of the Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) and the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD), identified approximately 60 sq. km of contaminated land. Demining, technical survey and land release activities resulted in substantial reduction of contaminated land surfaces. However, more than 10 sq. km of the land still remains contaminated along the TAB and CR of Tajikistan. At the same time, the mine problem in TUB cannot be properly documented or surveyed due to security reasons. Only late 2010 the discussions have revived on the mine issues in TUB and there is a hope to start some survey activities in the border areas in 2011.
APMBC and Tajikistan Extension Request for Article 5: Tajikistan acceded to the Ottawa Convention, also called the Mine Ban Treaty (MBT), on 12.10.1999, becoming a State Party on 01.04.2000. Tajikistan complied with the MBT Article 4 obligations by destroying all AP mines stockpiles before April 2004. Tajikistan complied with the Article 7 obligations by providing annual implementation reports to the Disarmament Affairs Department of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG). Tajikistan has been very active in participating in the MBT States Parties Meetings, in the intersessional meetings of the Standing Committees of the Convention as well as in the annual meetings of the Mine Action National Directors and UN Advisors. According to Article 5 of the MBT, Tajikistan has the obligation to destroy all anti-personnel mines on its territory before April 2010. As this has not been considered possible, Tajikistan prepared a detailed request for extending the deadline for completion of the Article 5 obligations. A ten-year extension request has been approved by the State Parties to the Convention during the Cartagena Summit on a Mine-Free World held in Colombia on 29.11-04.12.2009. Tajikistan is also a State Party to the Amended Protocol II and Protocol V to the CCW. Tajikistan has not yet signed or ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
TMAC and Partners: The Tajikistan Mine Action Center (TMAC) was established in June 2003 by agreement between the Government of Tajikistan (GoTaj) and UNDP. TMAC represents the executive arm of the Governmental Commission on the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law, the body, which is able to plan, coordinate and implement all components of mine action programme and oversees all aspects of the mine action programme in Tajikistan in collaboration with the mine action operators, relevant ministries, local authorities/communities and in consultation with UNDP. TMAC’s national partners include the Ministries of Defence, Labour and Social Protection, Health, Education, Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence, Main Department of Border Guards of the State Committee of National Security and National Guard, Committee of Women and Family Affairs, National Orthopaedic Centre, National Rehabilitation Centre, National Association of Disabled People, Society of the Disabled, the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan, Harmony of the World as well as the national mass media. Although TMAC operates under a national implementation (NIM) modality, UNDP closely monitors and controls finances, human resources, international travel and procurement related tasks of TMAC.
International cooperation is also recognized. Since 2003, Tajikistan has enjoyed a productive and dynamic cooperation with FSD that acted as the main demining operator in the country. TMAC established good cooperation with GICHD and particularly improved its information management capacity. The ICRC provides support and trainings to rehabilitate and improve the work conditions of the people with disabilities as well as actively participates in MRE activities. Late 2010 the Norwegian People Aid (NPA) Organization started its survey and demining operations in accordance with signed Agreement with the Tajikistan Government. The France Government enabled the Handicap International to undertake the KAP survey of mine risk awareness in priority districts of the country.
Tajikistan Mine Action Strategic Plan 2010 – 2015 ("Protecting Life & Promoting Development"): TMAC with UNDP support and active participation of all mine action stakeholders in Tajikistan developed a new Country Strategy for Mine Action for 2010-2015. This Strategy goes in line with priorities of the country and particularly follows the goals of the National Development Strategy and Poverty Reduction Strategy of the Government of Tajikistan. The vision of the Strategy corresponds to the priority of the country – being free of the landmines threat and ERWs, ensuring that (i) the Government of Tajikistan is in a position to comply with its international obligations related to landmines and Explosive Remnants of War, (ii) all priority areas will be cleared by the end of 2015, (iii) the national mine action programme efficiently supports the poverty reduction and socio-economic development strategy of the Government.
UNDP’s “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme” Project: Based on the Strategy vision and goals UNDP has developed its Project Document on “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme”, which aims at promoting the principles of the national ownership, institutional and technical capacity building as well as corresponds to key requirements of the International Mine Action Standards. This Project Document draws a comprehensive roadmap on building on the existing momentum and developing further existing capacity to ensure that Tajikistan complies with its obligations under Ottawa Convention and its protocols. The specific objectives of the project are articulated around the main components of the mine action programme: 1) Support the capacity of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) to coordinate, regulate, plan and monitor all mine action activities in the country; 2) Strengthening the demining operations of the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme; 2) Making change into the mine/ERW victims’ life; 4) Building safe environment for the communities through Mine Risk Education.
II. Objective
The CTA will assert TMAC’s position as the lead mine action organization, maximize the potential of TMAC staff and their expertise, streamline TMAC activities, improve working relationships and collaboration with international actors, develop a plan for completing clearance of contaminated land as quickly as possible, and implement an exit strategy.
III. Scope of work of the contractor
The primary role of the CTA is to provide management, technical advice and liaison ability to UNDP and Tajikistan Mine Action Centre, that is, to guide the management of the project towards nationalization and to liaise with the project’s beneficiaries and stakeholders regarding practical, political, financial and diplomatic aspects of the project. The CTA will also be responsible for building the professional capacity of TMAC staff, as well as advising on technical issues and operational work plans.
It is anticipated that improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of TMAC, brought about by the CTA, will result in a more cost effective programme overall. The programme manager will also be responsible for resource mobilization and, after an initial employment period, will assume responsibility for generating funding for the position.
As well as the provision of technical expertise, this appointment will also imply a number of other responsibilities, as outlined below.
• Raise the profile of TMAC, particularly among non-mine action actors and international actors working in Tajikistan.
• Assert TMAC’s authority over mine action activities and act as the lead organization for developing strategies and work plans.
• In consultation with UNDP, Government, TMAC staff and other key actors, develop and implement a plan to determine TMAC’s status.
• Improve resource mobilization and access expertise and resources from national and international actors operating in Tajikistan.
• Ensure that TMAC focuses on coordination and monitoring and is not involved in implementation.
• Review TMAC staffing levels and roles and responsibilities. Ensure that staff capacity building and international travel are appropriate, benefit TMAC and help it to fulfil its objectives and do not detract from TMAC’s important daily activities.
• Organize regular meetings at national and local levels with relevant actors. Identify new actors that may gain from or have something to offer TMAC and mine action activities.
• Provide clear direction to staff and help staff to see how they can improve their work.
• Explore ways of mainstreaming mine action into other initiatives.
• Develop an exit strategy which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity for all strands of TMAC (coordination and monitoring of mine clearance, IMSMA, mine risk education, victim assistance, etc.).
The CTA will be able to deal conscientiously and persistently with project-related problems and challenges; an ability to remain calm in stressful situations is required, including the capacity to work under pressure and produce output that is appropriate, timely and of high quality. An ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries and to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity, is required.
The project is situated within a remote, isolated part of Central Asia, and is to be implemented within UNDP’s security and project management requirements. The requirement is for a practical, hands-on and experienced manager with strong organisational skills, a proven track record of management capability in an operational team, training and administrative role, in less than optimal circumstances. The successful candidate will be a reliable self-motivator with decisive leadership and strong communication skills, combined with good interpersonal techniques and an ability to interact across a wide spectrum of people, in the field, as well as at the meeting table and within managerial offices of partner agencies and related organizations.
IV. Deliverables
? Regular progress reports on accomplished works in lieu with terms of reference;
? Procedures on prioritization, tasking and land release reviewed, analyzed and updated if needed;
? Exit strategy for Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity for all strands of TMAC operations.
V. Duration of the assignment
The duration of this assignment with UNDP is for an initial period of six months with possibility of extension depending on availability of funding.
V. Professional Skills and Experience
The CTA should have at least ten years work experience including at least five years’ experience of working in a mine action operations environment and international experience in project management, administration and implementation within the developing world, including inter-relationships among international organizations and national governments.
In particular, she/he will possess:
University degree in Social Science, International Relations, Development and Policy Studies, Political Science or other development related areas;
Solid understanding of all aspects of mine action and development concepts, and related practices, in both post-conflict and development settings and proven track record in mine action programming;
Proven management skills, coupled with strong communication and leadership ability;
Experience in developing capacities in post-conflict countries;
Excellent English (both written and oral) and presentation skills; ability to speak clearly and effectively. The successful applicant will be able to adapt the tone, style, and format of communications to successfully interact with audiences at all levels, without prejudice or partiality.
Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UN procedures is desirable;
Knowledge of the Russian language would be an asset.
Selection of the candidates will be based on cumulative analysis (highest qualified candidate)
Since UNDP Tajikistan currently has a majority of male employees, we strongly encourage qualified female applicants for this position. UNDP seeks to ensure that male and female employees are given equal career opportunities and that staff members are able to keep an appropriate balance between work and private life.
Country: Tajikistan
Description of Assignment:
The Chief Technical Advisor will assert the position of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) as the lead mine action organization, maximize the potential of TMAC staff and their expertise, streamline TMAC activities, improve working relationships and collaboration with international actors, develop a plan for completing clearance of contaminated land as quickly as possible, and implement an exit strategy.
Project name: Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC)
Period of assignment/services:
Six months with possibility of extension (depends on funding availability)
Type: International Post
Instruction for submission of applications: Please fill out an Application form for IC positions posted on www.undp.tj by following the job vacancies link from this webpage. Please note that no other type of application form will be considered for such positions, other than the one found at the link specified above.
Financial proposal should be submitted by email to ic.tj@undp.org no later than 15 April 2012. Any request for clarification must be sent by standard electronic communication, indicating Post Title in subject Line, to the address ic.tj@undp.org. UNDP Tajikistan will respond by standard electronic mail and will send written copies of the response, including an explanation of the query without identifying the source of inquiry, to all consultants.
1. BACKGROUND
Mine/UXO problem: Tajikistan’s landmines and contamination from explosive remnants of war (ERW) still remains the legacy from various past conflicts and landmines, which are mostly found along the Tajik-Afghan Border (TAB), the Tajik-Uzbek Border (TUB) and the Central Region (CR) of the country. Since 2004, joint collaborative activities of the Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) and the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD), identified approximately 60 sq. km of contaminated land. Demining, technical survey and land release activities resulted in substantial reduction of contaminated land surfaces. However, more than 10 sq. km of the land still remains contaminated along the TAB and CR of Tajikistan. At the same time, the mine problem in TUB cannot be properly documented or surveyed due to security reasons. Only late 2010 the discussions have revived on the mine issues in TUB and there is a hope to start some survey activities in the border areas in 2011.
APMBC and Tajikistan Extension Request for Article 5: Tajikistan acceded to the Ottawa Convention, also called the Mine Ban Treaty (MBT), on 12.10.1999, becoming a State Party on 01.04.2000. Tajikistan complied with the MBT Article 4 obligations by destroying all AP mines stockpiles before April 2004. Tajikistan complied with the Article 7 obligations by providing annual implementation reports to the Disarmament Affairs Department of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG). Tajikistan has been very active in participating in the MBT States Parties Meetings, in the intersessional meetings of the Standing Committees of the Convention as well as in the annual meetings of the Mine Action National Directors and UN Advisors. According to Article 5 of the MBT, Tajikistan has the obligation to destroy all anti-personnel mines on its territory before April 2010. As this has not been considered possible, Tajikistan prepared a detailed request for extending the deadline for completion of the Article 5 obligations. A ten-year extension request has been approved by the State Parties to the Convention during the Cartagena Summit on a Mine-Free World held in Colombia on 29.11-04.12.2009. Tajikistan is also a State Party to the Amended Protocol II and Protocol V to the CCW. Tajikistan has not yet signed or ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
TMAC and Partners: The Tajikistan Mine Action Center (TMAC) was established in June 2003 by agreement between the Government of Tajikistan (GoTaj) and UNDP. TMAC represents the executive arm of the Governmental Commission on the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law, the body, which is able to plan, coordinate and implement all components of mine action programme and oversees all aspects of the mine action programme in Tajikistan in collaboration with the mine action operators, relevant ministries, local authorities/communities and in consultation with UNDP.
UNDP’s “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme” Project: Based on the Strategy vision and goals UNDP has developed its Project Document on “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme”, which aims at promoting the principles of the national ownership, institutional and technical capacity building as well as corresponds to key requirements of the International Mine Action Standards. This Project Document draws a comprehensive roadmap on building on the existing momentum and developing further existing capacity to ensure that Tajikistan complies with its obligations under Ottawa Convention and its protocols. The specific objectives of the project are articulated around the main components of the mine action programme: 1) Support the capacity of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) to coordinate, regulate, plan and monitor all mine action activities in the country; 2) Strengthening the demining operations of the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme; 2) Making change into the mine/ERW victims’ life; 4) Building safe environment for the communities through Mine Risk Education.
2. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary role of the CTA is to provide management, technical advice and liaison ability to UNDP and Tajikistan Mine Action Centre, that is, to guide the management of the project towards nationalization and to liaise with the project’s beneficiaries and stakeholders regarding practical, political, financial and diplomatic aspects of the project. The CTA will also be responsible for building the professional capacity of TMAC staff, as well as advising on technical issues and operational work plans.
It is anticipated that improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of TMAC, brought about by the CTA, will result in a more cost effective programme overall. The programme manager will also be responsible for resource mobilization and, after an initial employment period, will assume responsibility for generating funding for the position.
As well as the provision of technical expertise, this appointment will also imply a number of other responsibilities, as outlined below.
• Raise the profile of TMAC, particularly among non-mine action actors and international actors working in Tajikistan.
• Assert TMAC’s authority over mine action activities and act as the lead organization for developing strategies and work plans.
• Improve resource mobilization and access expertise and resources from national and international actors operating in Tajikistan.
• Review TMAC staffing levels and roles and responsibilities.
• Provide clear direction to staff and help staff to see how they can improve their work.
• Ensure that TMAC focuses on coordination and monitoring and is not involved in implementation.
• Explore ways of mainstreaming mine action into other initiatives.
• Develop an exit strategy which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity.
• Organize regular meetings at national and local levels with relevant actors. Identify new actors that may gain from or have something to offer TMAC and mine action activities.
• Ensure that staff capacity building and international travel are appropriate, benefit TMAC and help it to fulfil its objectives and do not detract from TMAC’s important daily activities
• In consultation with UNDP, GoT, TMAC staff and other key actors, develop and implement a plan to determine TMAC’s status.
3. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
I. Academic Qualifications:
? University degree in Social Science, International Relations, Development and Policy Studies, Political Science or other development related areas;
II. Years of experience:
? At least 10 years of working experience in the area of mine action programming and development;
? Solid understanding of all aspects of mine action and development concepts, and related practices, in both post-conflict and development settings and proven track record in mine action programming;
III. Professional Skills:
? Proven management skills, coupled with strong communication and leadership ability;
? Experience in developing capacities in post-conflict countries;
? Excellent English (both written and oral) and presentation skills; ability to speak clearly and effectively. The successful applicant will be able to adapt the tone, style, and format of communications to successfully interact with audiences at all levels, without prejudice or partiality.
? Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UN procedures is desirable;
? Knowledge of the Russian language would be an asset.
1. DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED WHEN SUBMITTING THE PROPOSALS.
Interested individual consultants must submit the following documents/information to demonstrate their
Qualifications:
• Proposal:
• Explaining why they are the most suitable for the work
• Provide a brief methodology on how they will approach and conduct the work
• Financial proposal
• Personal CV including past experience in similar projects and at least 3 references
4. FINANCIAL PROPOSAL
Lump sum contracts
The financial proposal shall specify a total lump sum amount, and payment terms around specific and measurable (qualitative and quantitative) deliverables (i.e. whether payments fall in installments or upon completion of the entire contract). Payments are based upon output, i.e. upon delivery of the services specified in the TOR. In order to assist the requesting unit in the comparison of financial proposals, the financial proposal will include a breakdown of this lump sum amount (including travel, per diems, and number of anticipated working days).
5. TRAVEL
All envisaged travel costs must be included in the financial proposal. This includes all travel to join duty station/repatriation travel. In general, UNDP shall not accept travel costs exceeding those of an economy class ticket. Should the IC wish to travel on a higher class he/she should do so using their own resources.
In the case of unforeseeable travel, payment of travel costs including tickets, lodging and terminal expenses shall be agreed upon, between UNDP Tajikistan and the contracted Individual Consultant, prior to travel and will be reimbursed.
6. EVALUATION
Individual consultants will be evaluated based on the cumulative analysis methodology. The award of the
Contract shall be made to the individual consultant whose offer has been evaluated and determined as:
a) responsive/compliant/acceptable, and
b) Having received the highest score out of the below set weighted technical and financial criteria.
* Technical Criteria weight – 70%;
* Financial Criteria weight – 30%.
Only candidates obtaining a minimum of 49 points would be considered for the Financial Evaluation.
ANNEX
ANNEX 1 – TERMS OF REFERENCES (TOR)
ANNEX 2 – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Vacancy Announcement
Project: Tajikistan Mine Action Centre
Job Title: Chief Technical Adviser (CTA)
Type of Contract: Individual Contract
Duration of the assignment: Six months with possibility of extension
(depends on funding availability)
Deadline for application: 30 April 2012
Instruction for submission of applications: Please fill out an Application form for IC positions posted on www.undp.tj by following the job vacancies link from this webpage. Please note that no other type of application form will be considered for such positions, other than the one found at the link specified above.
I. Background
Mine/UXO problem: Tajikistan’s landmines and contamination from explosive remnants of war (ERW) still remains the legacy from various past conflicts and landmines, which are mostly found along the Tajik-Afghan Border (TAB), the Tajik-Uzbek Border (TUB) and the Central Region (CR) of the country. Since 2004, joint collaborative activities of the Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) and the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD), identified approximately 60 sq. km of contaminated land. Demining, technical survey and land release activities resulted in substantial reduction of contaminated land surfaces. However, more than 10 sq. km of the land still remains contaminated along the TAB and CR of Tajikistan. At the same time, the mine problem in TUB cannot be properly documented or surveyed due to security reasons. Only late 2010 the discussions have revived on the mine issues in TUB and there is a hope to start some survey activities in the border areas in 2011.
APMBC and Tajikistan Extension Request for Article 5: Tajikistan acceded to the Ottawa Convention, also called the Mine Ban Treaty (MBT), on 12.10.1999, becoming a State Party on 01.04.2000. Tajikistan complied with the MBT Article 4 obligations by destroying all AP mines stockpiles before April 2004. Tajikistan complied with the Article 7 obligations by providing annual implementation reports to the Disarmament Affairs Department of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG). Tajikistan has been very active in participating in the MBT States Parties Meetings, in the intersessional meetings of the Standing Committees of the Convention as well as in the annual meetings of the Mine Action National Directors and UN Advisors. According to Article 5 of the MBT, Tajikistan has the obligation to destroy all anti-personnel mines on its territory before April 2010. As this has not been considered possible, Tajikistan prepared a detailed request for extending the deadline for completion of the Article 5 obligations. A ten-year extension request has been approved by the State Parties to the Convention during the Cartagena Summit on a Mine-Free World held in Colombia on 29.11-04.12.2009. Tajikistan is also a State Party to the Amended Protocol II and Protocol V to the CCW. Tajikistan has not yet signed or ratified the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM).
TMAC and Partners: The Tajikistan Mine Action Center (TMAC) was established in June 2003 by agreement between the Government of Tajikistan (GoTaj) and UNDP. TMAC represents the executive arm of the Governmental Commission on the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law, the body, which is able to plan, coordinate and implement all components of mine action programme and oversees all aspects of the mine action programme in Tajikistan in collaboration with the mine action operators, relevant ministries, local authorities/communities and in consultation with UNDP. TMAC’s national partners include the Ministries of Defence, Labour and Social Protection, Health, Education, Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence, Main Department of Border Guards of the State Committee of National Security and National Guard, Committee of Women and Family Affairs, National Orthopaedic Centre, National Rehabilitation Centre, National Association of Disabled People, Society of the Disabled, the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan, Harmony of the World as well as the national mass media. Although TMAC operates under a national implementation (NIM) modality, UNDP closely monitors and controls finances, human resources, international travel and procurement related tasks of TMAC.
International cooperation is also recognized. Since 2003, Tajikistan has enjoyed a productive and dynamic cooperation with FSD that acted as the main demining operator in the country. TMAC established good cooperation with GICHD and particularly improved its information management capacity. The ICRC provides support and trainings to rehabilitate and improve the work conditions of the people with disabilities as well as actively participates in MRE activities. Late 2010 the Norwegian People Aid (NPA) Organization started its survey and demining operations in accordance with signed Agreement with the Tajikistan Government. The France Government enabled the Handicap International to undertake the KAP survey of mine risk awareness in priority districts of the country.
Tajikistan Mine Action Strategic Plan 2010 – 2015 ("Protecting Life & Promoting Development"): TMAC with UNDP support and active participation of all mine action stakeholders in Tajikistan developed a new Country Strategy for Mine Action for 2010-2015. This Strategy goes in line with priorities of the country and particularly follows the goals of the National Development Strategy and Poverty Reduction Strategy of the Government of Tajikistan. The vision of the Strategy corresponds to the priority of the country – being free of the landmines threat and ERWs, ensuring that (i) the Government of Tajikistan is in a position to comply with its international obligations related to landmines and Explosive Remnants of War, (ii) all priority areas will be cleared by the end of 2015, (iii) the national mine action programme efficiently supports the poverty reduction and socio-economic development strategy of the Government.
UNDP’s “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme” Project: Based on the Strategy vision and goals UNDP has developed its Project Document on “Support to the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme”, which aims at promoting the principles of the national ownership, institutional and technical capacity building as well as corresponds to key requirements of the International Mine Action Standards. This Project Document draws a comprehensive roadmap on building on the existing momentum and developing further existing capacity to ensure that Tajikistan complies with its obligations under Ottawa Convention and its protocols. The specific objectives of the project are articulated around the main components of the mine action programme: 1) Support the capacity of Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) to coordinate, regulate, plan and monitor all mine action activities in the country; 2) Strengthening the demining operations of the Tajikistan Mine Action Programme; 2) Making change into the mine/ERW victims’ life; 4) Building safe environment for the communities through Mine Risk Education.
II. Objective
The CTA will assert TMAC’s position as the lead mine action organization, maximize the potential of TMAC staff and their expertise, streamline TMAC activities, improve working relationships and collaboration with international actors, develop a plan for completing clearance of contaminated land as quickly as possible, and implement an exit strategy.
III. Scope of work of the contractor
The primary role of the CTA is to provide management, technical advice and liaison ability to UNDP and Tajikistan Mine Action Centre, that is, to guide the management of the project towards nationalization and to liaise with the project’s beneficiaries and stakeholders regarding practical, political, financial and diplomatic aspects of the project. The CTA will also be responsible for building the professional capacity of TMAC staff, as well as advising on technical issues and operational work plans.
It is anticipated that improvements in the effectiveness and efficiency of TMAC, brought about by the CTA, will result in a more cost effective programme overall. The programme manager will also be responsible for resource mobilization and, after an initial employment period, will assume responsibility for generating funding for the position.
As well as the provision of technical expertise, this appointment will also imply a number of other responsibilities, as outlined below.
• Raise the profile of TMAC, particularly among non-mine action actors and international actors working in Tajikistan.
• Assert TMAC’s authority over mine action activities and act as the lead organization for developing strategies and work plans.
• In consultation with UNDP, Government, TMAC staff and other key actors, develop and implement a plan to determine TMAC’s status.
• Improve resource mobilization and access expertise and resources from national and international actors operating in Tajikistan.
• Ensure that TMAC focuses on coordination and monitoring and is not involved in implementation.
• Review TMAC staffing levels and roles and responsibilities. Ensure that staff capacity building and international travel are appropriate, benefit TMAC and help it to fulfil its objectives and do not detract from TMAC’s important daily activities.
• Organize regular meetings at national and local levels with relevant actors. Identify new actors that may gain from or have something to offer TMAC and mine action activities.
• Provide clear direction to staff and help staff to see how they can improve their work.
• Explore ways of mainstreaming mine action into other initiatives.
• Develop an exit strategy which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity for all strands of TMAC (coordination and monitoring of mine clearance, IMSMA, mine risk education, victim assistance, etc.).
The CTA will be able to deal conscientiously and persistently with project-related problems and challenges; an ability to remain calm in stressful situations is required, including the capacity to work under pressure and produce output that is appropriate, timely and of high quality. An ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries and to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity, is required.
The project is situated within a remote, isolated part of Central Asia, and is to be implemented within UNDP’s security and project management requirements. The requirement is for a practical, hands-on and experienced manager with strong organisational skills, a proven track record of management capability in an operational team, training and administrative role, in less than optimal circumstances. The successful candidate will be a reliable self-motivator with decisive leadership and strong communication skills, combined with good interpersonal techniques and an ability to interact across a wide spectrum of people, in the field, as well as at the meeting table and within managerial offices of partner agencies and related organizations.
IV. Deliverables
? Regular progress reports on accomplished works in lieu with terms of reference;
? Procedures on prioritization, tasking and land release reviewed, analyzed and updated if needed;
? Exit strategy for Tajikistan Mine Action Centre (TMAC) which ensures that there is effective residual national capacity for all strands of TMAC operations.
V. Duration of the assignment
The duration of this assignment with UNDP is for an initial period of six months with possibility of extension depending on availability of funding.
V. Professional Skills and Experience
The CTA should have at least ten years work experience including at least five years’ experience of working in a mine action operations environment and international experience in project management, administration and implementation within the developing world, including inter-relationships among international organizations and national governments.
In particular, she/he will possess:
University degree in Social Science, International Relations, Development and Policy Studies, Political Science or other development related areas;
Solid understanding of all aspects of mine action and development concepts, and related practices, in both post-conflict and development settings and proven track record in mine action programming;
Proven management skills, coupled with strong communication and leadership ability;
Experience in developing capacities in post-conflict countries;
Excellent English (both written and oral) and presentation skills; ability to speak clearly and effectively. The successful applicant will be able to adapt the tone, style, and format of communications to successfully interact with audiences at all levels, without prejudice or partiality.
Knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UN procedures is desirable;
Knowledge of the Russian language would be an asset.
Selection of the candidates will be based on cumulative analysis (highest qualified candidate)
Since UNDP Tajikistan currently has a majority of male employees, we strongly encourage qualified female applicants for this position. UNDP seeks to ensure that male and female employees are given equal career opportunities and that staff members are able to keep an appropriate balance between work and private life.
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