National Capacity Building Expert
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports sustainable agrifood systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life. Sierra Leone's initial National Adaptation Plan (NAP), developed in 2021, identified adaptation priorities but requires a full NAP informed by detailed vulnerability assessments and climate information. To address this, FAO, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), launched a NAP readiness project in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to strengthen climate-risk management in key sectors.
Job Purpose
The National Capacity Building Expert will lead efforts to strengthen technical and institutional capacities for mainstreaming climate adaptation planning and integration into national planning and budgeting processes across seven key sectors in Sierra Leone. This involves identifying stakeholders, assessing their capacity gaps, and facilitating targeted capacity-strengthening activities. The expert will collaborate with academic institutions to deliver training through online and face-to-face sessions and regional workshops, ensuring effective integration of climate change considerations into national development strategies.
Responsibilities
Review existing policies and institutional capacities across seven key sectors to identify areas for strengthening climate change adaptation integration. Support capacity needs assessments through stakeholder interviews, surveys, and focus groups. Contribute to developing a capacity development plan and training modules on integrating climate change adaptation into planning and budgeting processes for national and decentralized offices. Collaborate with academic and research institutions to integrate climate change adaptation into their training and research programs. Provide logistical and technical support during capacity-building sessions, ensuring active participation and gender inclusion. Offer post-training support to government officers for practical application of acquired skills. Develop monitoring mechanisms to assess training impact, compile training reports, and share best practices for scaling up adaptation efforts.
Work Experience
At least 5 years of relevant experience in designing and implementing capacity-building initiatives focused on climate action. Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the private sector, is essential. Familiarity with curriculum development and adult learning principles is beneficial.
Skills
Strong analytical, strategic planning, and coordination skills. Excellent communication and facilitation abilities. Proven knowledge in capacity building and training design and delivery. Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of local languages is an asset. Experience in curriculum development, adult learning principles, and participatory training techniques is highly desirable.