National Consultancy: Endline Evaluation on access to Family Planning in the Private Sector (EMPOWER Programme)

Organizational Context

UNFPA is the lead United Nations agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. In Uganda, UNFPA collaborates with the Ministry of Health and private sector actors to strengthen health systems and expand contraceptive access. This consultancy supports the EMPOWER Programme, funded by FCDO, which aims to increase family planning access in the private sector.

Job Purpose

This consultancy is to conduct an endline evaluation of the EMPOWER Phase II project in Uganda, which focuses on consolidating systems, expanding market reach, and embedding long-term sustainability for family planning services in the private sector. The evaluation will assess project performance, market sustainability, and the effectiveness of regulatory systems. It aims to synthesize evidence-based learnings, document best practices, and produce actionable policy briefs and a peer-reviewed publication. The ultimate goal is to inform national policy and global health literature, and to critically assess whether continued investment in private-sector family planning market shaping is warranted by FCDO, the Government of Uganda, and other development partners.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct a comprehensive endline evaluation of the EMPOWER Phase II project, assessing its performance against planned targets and OECD-DAC criteria, including Value for Money. This involves evaluating the sustainability and financial viability of private sector family planning delivery without external subsidies, and analyzing the effectiveness of regulatory mechanisms and Last Mile Assurance systems in preventing commodity leakage. The role includes formulating evidence-based recommendations on future investment in the Total Market Approach model, documenting lessons learned and best practices from innovative approaches, and developing targeted policy briefs for key stakeholders. Additionally, the consultant will produce a scholarly manuscript for submission to a high-impact global health journal.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of experience in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) or family planning (FP), with a focus on adolescents and vulnerable populations. Demonstrated expertise in evaluating Total Market Approach (TMA), private sector health systems, or market-shaping initiatives. Minimum 7 years of experience leading evaluations of similar complexity in Sub-Saharan Africa. Experience in SRHR, gender equality, and women's empowerment programmes in low-income countries is required. Experience with FCDO/UKAID evaluation standards and Value for Money frameworks is desirable.

Skills

Proven skills in robust evaluation designs, including quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Proficiency in M&E software such as Atlas.ti, NVivo, SPSS, STATA, or Advanced Excel. Excellent analytical, report-writing, presentation, and communication skills. Demonstrated experience in preparing evaluation reports, policy briefs, and peer-reviewed publications. Experience engaging with diverse stakeholders including government, development partners, and the private sector.

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