Terms of Reference for The Provision of Individual Consultancy Services for the Final Evaluation of ACBF’s Strengthening African Leadership for Climate Adaptation Program (SALCA)
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RFP Process No.: ACBF/RFP/002/26/SALCA

1. Introduction

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) has implemented the Strengthening African Leadership for Climate Adaptation Program (SALCA) seeking to enhance the organizational performance of proximate, Africa-based and African-led entities working on climate adaptation as to strengthen the landscape of African organizations within the continent’s climate adaptation ecosystem. It is a five-year Program funded by Gates Foundation with a total of grant amount of USD 5,000,000 and running from November 2021 to December 2026. The Program supports four target organizations, namely African Centre for Equitable Development (ACED, Benin), Centre d’Etudes et de Recherches en Analyses et Politiques Economiques (CERAPE, Republic of Congo), Inclusive Climate Change Adaptation for a Sustainable Africa (ICCASA, Kenya), and Horn Economic and Social Policy Institute (HESPI, Ethiopia) considered strategic partners with the potential to contribute to an effective, evidence-based climate adaptation agenda in Africa.

As SALCA approaches the end of its implementation period in December 2026, ACBF is undertaking a final evaluation of the Program in conformity with the Foundation’s Evaluation Policy and the requirements of the Grant Agreement. The exercise will be conducted as an independent assignment entrusted to an individual consultant, under the coordination of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Reporting (MERL) Unit within ACBF’s Programs and Impact Department in collaboration with the Climate Unit. These Terms of Reference (ToRs) provide the framework for planning, conducting and managing the SALCA final evaluation. The document outlines the background and justification for the evaluation, its objectives, scope of work, methodology, key deliverables and timelines, and the qualifications and experience required of the consultant.

2. Context and Justification

Climate change continues to pose a significant threat to Africa’s environment, economies and communities, with the continent warming faster than the global average and experiencing more frequent and intense droughts, floods and heatwaves. These impacts fall disproportionately on African countries and communities that have contributed the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, compounding a longstanding equity gap between the Global North and Global South. Africa-based and African-led organizations remain underrepresented in global climate research, policy and advocacy processes, and often lack institutional capacity, resources and knowledge networks needed to shape an effective, evidence-based climate adaptation agenda for the continent.

SALCA was designed to address this capacity and representation gap by strengthening the organizational performance of a cohort of strategically selected, proximate climate adaptation organizations. The Program targets five outcome areas of institutional performance such as efficiency, effectiveness, relevance, sustainability, and gender responsiveness on the premise that strengthened target organizations will become active contributors to an evidence-based climate adaptation agenda in Africa, effective participants in policy dialogue and advocacy, and sustained voices in global climate forums, while better representing the needs of vulnerable and poor African communities in national and international climate decision-making processes.

Program implementation began with a scoping and mapping exercise of the African climate adaptation ecosystem, followed by a competitive selection process that identified ACED, CERAPE, ICCASA and HESPI as target organizations. Each organization underwent a Capacity Needs Assessment (CNA) and, in collaboration with ACBF, developed a Customized Institutional Capacity Improvement Plan (CICIP), translated into individual project documents effective 10 July 2023 for a 42-month implementation period. Delivery of the capacity improvement plans has since covered areas such as governance, financial management, M&E systems, knowledge management, partnerships, resource mobilization and gender responsiveness, complemented by four catalytic climate adaptation interventions in agriculture implemented by the target organizations.

As the Program reaches its completion, a final evaluation is required to independently assess the overall achievement of its intended outcomes, generate credible evidence on what worked and what did not, and draw out lessons to inform ACBF’s future climate adaptation and institutional capacity-building programming. The evaluation will also support the target organizations’ own reflection on the sustainability of the gains achieved by incorporating a learning component in the form of a Learning Workshop, bringing together partners to reflect on programme achievements, consolidate cross‑country lessons and experiences, and identify practical pathways for sustaining and scaling the programme’s impact beyond the current implementation phase.

3. Objectives of the Review

This final evaluation aims to independently assess SALCA’s overall performance and results at the end of its implementation, and to generate evidence-based lessons to inform ACBF’s future climate adaptation and capacity-building programming. Specifically, the evaluation will seek to:

  • Assess the relevance of the Program’s design and choice of target organizations to Africa’s climate adaptation priorities.
  • Measure the Program’s achievement of its five intended outcomes (efficiency, effectiveness, relevance, sustainability, and gender responsiveness) across the four target organizations.
  • Determine the Program’s broader, longer-term contribution to the target organizations and to Africa’s climate adaptation ecosystem.
  • Identify key implementation challenges, risks and good practices derived from the capacity improvement plans and catalytic interventions.
  • Draw illustrative lessons and actionable recommendations for future ACBF programming.

4. Scope of Work

4.1. Evaluation Coverage

This review will cover the entire Program implementation duration running from November 2021 to December 2026 and engage all the four target organizations with the following details:

Target OrganizationCountryProject title Project DurationProject Effectiveness Date
ACEDBeninCapacity Strengthening for Enhanced Climate Leadership in ACED42 months10 July 2023
CERAPECongoCapacity Strengthening for Enhanced Climate Leadership in CERAPE42 months10 July 2023
ICCASAKenyaCapacity Strengthening for Enhanced Climate Leadership in ICCASA42 months10 July 2023
HESPIEthiopiaCapacity Strengthening for Enhanced Climate Leadership in HESPI42 months10 July 2023

4.2. Key Evaluation Questions

The key questions that the evaluation will seek to answer through the data collection and analysis process are as follows:

  • To what extent did SALCA design, including its theory of change and selection of target organizations, remained appropriate throughout implementation?
  • How effective were the Customized Institutional Capacity Improvement Plans and associated project documents implemented, and what factors enabled or constrained their delivery?
  • To what extent have target organizations contributed to an evidence-based climate adaptation agenda and to policy dialogue and advocacy at national, regional or international levels?
  • What has been the contribution of the catalytic climate adaptation interventions in agriculture to Program results and cross-partner learning?
  • What is the likelihood that the capacities, systems and partnerships built through the Program will be sustained by the target organizations beyond the grant period?
  • What lessons can be drawn to strengthen the design and implementation of future ACBF climate adaptation and capacity-building programs?

4.3 Review Dimensions and Criteria

The evaluation will apply standard evaluation criteria, complemented by two dimensions specific to ACBF’s programming, as described below:

  • Relevance: An assessment of the extent to which SALCA’s design, theory of change and choice of target organizations remained aligned with the capacity needs of Africa-based and African-led climate adaptation organizations and with national and continental climate adaptation policies and strategies over the life of the Program. Key questions include:
    • How valid did the Program’s underlying assumptions prove to be?
    • How well did the Program design adapt to changes in context or need during implementation?
  • Effectiveness:  An assessment of the extent to which the Program achieved its five intended outcomes and associated outputs across the four target organizations, including any unintended effects. Key questions include:
    • To what extent were planned outputs delivered and outcomes achieved against the Results Tracker targets?
    • What factors most influenced the level of achievement?
  • Efficiency:  An assessment of the extent to which financial, human and material resources were used economically and efficiently to deliver Program outputs and results, including the appropriateness of implementation and disbursement arrangements. Key questions include:
    • Were outputs delivered at reasonable cost and within planned timeframes?
    • Could the same or better results have been achieved with fewer resources or in less time?
  • Impact:  An assessment of the broader and longer-term changes intended and unintended, positive and negative that the Program has contributed to in the target organizations, their beneficiary communities, and Africa’s climate adaptation ecosystem more widely, including any contribution to national or regional climate adaptation policy and practice. Key questions include:
    • What difference has SALCA made to the target organizations’ standing and influence in the climate adaptation space?
    • What evidence exists of wider or systemic change attributable, at least in part, to the Program?
  • Sustainability: An assessment of the likelihood that the institutional capacities, systems, partnerships and financial resource base built through the Program will be sustained by the target organizations beyond the life of the grant. Key questions include:
    • Have target organizations diversified their funding base and retained key expertise?
    • What ownership and institutionalization measures have been put in place to sustain results?
  • Gender Responsiveness: An assessment of the extent to which gender dimensions have been mainstreamed within the target organizations’ policies, programming and culture, and the progress made along the Program’s gender-unintentional, gender-intentional and gender-transformative continuum. Key questions include:
    • How has gender responsiveness evolved in each target organization over the life of the Program?
    • What evidence exists of gender-transformative practice?
  • Implementation support management: An assessment of the quality and effectiveness of the support provided by ACBF in managing Program implementation, including the capacity needs assessment and improvement planning process, the adequacy of M&E and reporting arrangements, the quality of supervision and technical support missions, and responsiveness to target organizations and the Foundation. Key questions include:
    • How well did ACBF’s coordination and support arrangements enable target organizations to deliver results?
    • What improvements would strengthen ACBF’s management of similar programs in future?

5. Review Methodology

The evaluation will adopt a participatory approach combining qualitative and quantitative methods and engaging all key stakeholders. The consultant will present a detailed methodology including an evaluation matrix, sampling approach, data collection and analysis tools, and a validation workshop plan in the inception report. Suggested methods and data sources include the following, though the consultant, as an independent evaluator, remains responsible for assessing their suitability and proposing more adequate procedures where necessary, subject to ACBF’s validation:

  • Desk Review: Review of relevant Program documents, including the Investment Document, scoping and Capacity Needs Assessment reports, Customized Institutional Capacity Improvement Plans, project documents, grant/activity agreements, supervision and progress reports, the Results Tracker/RMF, and materials from the SALCA catalytic projects and learning webinar series.
  • Key Informant Interviews: Consultation with ACBF staff (e.g. Climate Unit Team, Finance Team, Management Team), Gates Foundation Program Team, the leadership and staff of the four target organizations, and, where relevant, other stakeholders engaged through the catalytic projects and learning events.
  • Program Outcome-level Results (RMF): Analysis of endline data against baseline and mid-term values for the primary and intermediate outcome and output indicators set out in the Program’s Results Tracker to determine the level of achievement of the five Program outcomes.
  • Organizational Performance Index (OPI):  Application of ACBF’s Organizational Performance Index (OPI) tool to measure endline institutional performance of the four target organizations against and mid-term OPI scores across the Program’s core performance dimensions.
  • Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA):  Application of ACBF’s Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA) tool to each target organization to benchmark against the findings of the baseline and mid-term assessment, to determine the extent of capacity gains achieved.
  • Cross-Institutional Learning and Upscaling: Reflection and sharing of cross-country lessons and experiences, identification of pathways for sustaining and scaling the program’s impact beyond the closing phase and recommendations for future programming.

6. Assignment Duration & Key Deliverables

The total duration of the assignment will be forty (45) days expanding between September and November 2026. The following deliverables will be expected from the review team within the proposed deadlines:  

Table2: Key Deliverable Table

Key DeliverablesDelivery Duration Daily rateAmount
1. Submission of the inception report (including evaluation matrix and methodology) following desk review and inception meeting5 days  
2. Submission of the learning workshop report following cross-institutional experience sharing involving all target organizations, ACBF and Gates Foundation5 days  
3. Compilation of evaluation data set following data collection, including key informant interviews, organizational capacity assessment (OCA), organizational performance assessment (OPI), and outcomes assessment (Result Tracker)15 days  
4. Submission of the draft evaluation report to ACBF following data analysis and synthesis12 days  
5. Validation of the draft report following the presentation of findings to ACBF, Gates Foundation and target organizations5 days  
6. Submission of the final evaluation report to ACBF incorporating stakeholder comments3 days  
Total45 days  

Please note that consultants are encouraged to follow the Key Deliverables Table provided above when developing their financial proposals. The financial proposal should include professional fees only. Where the assignment requires travel, ACBF will cover all travel and accommodation costs in accordance with the ACBF Travel and Reimbursable Expenses Policy.

7. Qualifications and Experience for the Assignment   

  • Advanced degree (master’s or higher) in development studies, climate science, or environmental studies, with a certificate in monitoring and evaluation.
  • A minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience conducting evaluations of development and/or climate adaptation programs, including for multilateral development institutions and international organizations operating in Africa.
  • Sound understanding of organizational capacity assessment and institutional capacity-building programming for Africa-based and African-led organizations.
  • Proven experience in designing, facilitating, and managing participatory workshops, learning events, or stakeholder consultations, particularly using interactive, adult-learning, and knowledge-sharing methodologies.
  • Strong knowledge of climate change and climate adaptation challenges, policies and strategies in Africa.
  • Proficiency in English and strong working ability to facilitate sessions and engage participants in French is an added advantage (given the language profiles of the target organizations’ countries).

8. Evaluation criteria (Individual Consultant Selection method)

Evaluation of the proposals will be evaluated based on Individual Consultant Selection method criteria. 

The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria, and point system specified below.  A technical proposal shall be rejected at this stage if it does not respond to key aspects of the Terms of Reference or if it fails to achieve the minimum technical score indicated.  The minimum technical score required to pass is: 70 Points.  

SN   CriteriaMax Points (100) 
 Advanced degree (master’s or higher) in development studies, climate science, or environmental studies, with certificate in monitoring and evaluation.20
 Sound understanding of organizational capacity assessment and institutional capacity-building programming for Africa-based and African-led organizations. Proven experience in designing, facilitating, and managing participatory workshops, learning events, or stakeholder consultations, particularly using interactive, adult-learning, and knowledge-sharing methodologies. Strong knowledge of climate change and climate adaptation challenges, policies and strategies in Africa.  40
 3   A minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience conducting evaluations of development and/or climate adaptation programs, including for multilateral development institutions and international organizations operating in Africa.20
4Proficiency in English and strong working ability to facilitate sessions and engage participants in French sessions and engage participants in French is an added20
  Total  100

9. Submission Process 

  • A cover letter outlining how the Consultant or firm meets the above qualifications.
  • Technical Proposal to ACBF interpreting the terms of reference and elaborating the consultancy methodology and design, level of effort required to fully deliver the assignment, and with a work plan and budget (cost implication) for undertaking the assignment.
  • Brief overview of the consultant and the skills and experience they would bring to the assignment
  • The consultant’s Resume 
  • Copies of three similar assignments undertaken in the last 5 years and contacts of the clients, contact details of three referees from organizations that have recently contracted the consultant to similar or related work for the last 5 years.
  • A financial offer with an encrypted password and a detailed breakdown of costs, disclosing all relevant budget items for completing this assignment as given in Table 2 above.

Consultants are being requested to submit their proposal with the subject clearly marked, RFP Process No.: ACBF/RFP/002/26/SALCA Consultancy Services,” to the email address: submission@theacbf.org  on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 14th August 2026. 

Context

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is implementing the “Strengthening African Leadership for Climate Change Adaptation” programme, which aims to improve the performance of organizations working in the area of climate change adaptation to a sustainable ecosystem for adaptation to climate change on the African continent. The overall expected outcome of the program is to have a strong group of African-based and African-led organizations capable of shaping Africa’s response to climate change through effective policy dialogue, advocacy and using a common voice to raise awareness and influence policy.

More specifically, the program will strengthen the capacity of selected organizations to play a leading role in climate adaptation by improving their efficiency, effectiveness, relevance, and sustainability, while improving their capacity to develop an organizational culture of excellence, with the overall aim of improving the continent’s capacity to undertake the necessary actions to prepare for and adapt to the current and future impacts of climate change.

The program emphasizes a data- and evidence-based approach in its implementation, as well as gender sensitivity and social inclusion in the climate adaptation strategies of selected organizations. As part of its implementation strategy, the program will develop and implement customized performance improvement plans to address priority capacity challenges of target organizations working with poor and vulnerable African communities to develop sustainable and resilient climate adaptation strategies.

As part of the implementation of this program, which is in it final year, four organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa were selected, including the Centre for Studies and Research on Economic Analysis and Policies (CERAPE) whose regional headquarters is based in Brazzaville. The latter has four research units located in Congo, CAR, DRC, and Cameroon. Its main objective is to carry out research work. For this purpose, the missions below are devolved to it:

  • Create a framework for exchanges and sharing of knowledge between researchers;
  • Carry out research projects in the socio-economic field;
  • Disseminate research results to decision-makers;
  • Train and supervise young researchers.

ACBF engaged a Resource Mobilisation and Partnership-Building Expert to support CERAPE under the SALCA Programme. That consultancy did not close out one outstanding deliverable: the development and authorized submission of three strategic fundraising proposals for international funding, in line with the CERAPE Strategic Plan. ACBF now seeks to recruit a consultant to complete that outstanding deliverable within two calendar months.

Objectives

The main objective of this Terms of Reference (TOR) is to complete and submit three strategic fundraising proposals for CERAPE in support of the CERAPE Strategic Plan and the SALCA Programme.

Specific objectives

  • Confirm the status of the final-quarter activities of the previous consultancy and identify outstanding actions.
  • Train CERAPE staff on proposal writing and resource mobilization
  • Develop, quality-assure and finalize three donor-compliant strategic fundraising proposals for international funding.
  • Hand over editable source files, trackers and supporting documents to CERAPE and ACBF.

Expected Deliverables

The consultant is expected to deliver the following:

1. Inception note confirming the three priority funding opportunities to be pursued and the workplan for the month.

2. Three strategic fundraising proposals aligned with the CERAPE Strategic Plan and SALCA objectives, including technical narrative, results framework, budget and budget narrative, risk analysis, sustainability approach and required annexes.

3. Editable source files for all proposals, budgets and annexes, together with the updated proposal tracker and donor engagement log.

4. Training of CERAPE staff on donor landscape analysis and mapping and stakeholder engagement and Partnership building.

5. A concise completion report summarizing the activities undertaken and recommended follow-up actions.

Table 1. Schedule of Deliverables

DeliverablesTentative Timelines
1Submission of Inception note and priority funding opportunities20 August 2026
2First complete drafts of the three strategic fundraising proposals10 September 2026
3Final drafts of the three proposals, incorporating ACBF and CERAPE comments17 September 2026
4Training of CERAPE staff on donor landscape analysis and mapping and stakeholder engagement and Partnership building.22 September 2026
5Submission of final activity report28 September 2026

Academic profile, experiences, skills

1. Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field such as development studies, economics, public policy, business administration, project management, social sciences, climate or environmental studies, or any related discipline.

2. At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in resource mobilization and proposal development for international funders.

3. Demonstrated record of developing and submitting successful international fundraising proposals to bilateral, multilateral, philanthropic, climate-finance or research funding institutions.

4. Experience working with African research institutions, civil-society organizations, think tanks or regional bodies, experience in Central Africa is an advantage.

5. Strong competence in proposal budgeting, results-based management, monitoring and evaluation, donor compliance and internal quality assurance.

6. Proven ability to coach and work collaboratively with multidisciplinary and geographically dispersed teams.

7. Proficiency in French and working knowledge of English.

Submission and Application

Interested consultants must submit an application file including the following:

  • Technical Proposal – including a brief presentation of the methodological approach (accompanied by a two-month timeline);
  • Curriculum Vitae – highlighting experience acquired in similar assignments and at least 3 references;
  • A financial proposal – with encrypted password and a detailed breakdown of the costs of the services proposed.

Supervision and Duration of the Assignment

This assignment is envisaged to be implemented over two (2) calendar months from the effective date stated in the contract. The Consultant will be contracted by ACBF on behalf of CERAPE, who will lead the supervision of the assignment, with day-to-day coordination by the CERAPE reporting officer and a bi- weekly coordination by ACBF.

Content, Schedule, and Submission

The results must meet quality standards. The final package must be submitted no later than the end date stated in the contract. The tentative schedule is presented in the deliverables in section3.

Work Arrangements

The Consultant is expected to work from his/her own office for the period of the contract and that of the CERAPE regional coordination in Brazzaville for a week during the contract period. The consultant will have access to relevant information necessary to carry out the tasks planned as part of this mission. The consultant will be required to provide their own workstation (laptop, internet, phone, scanner/printer, etc.) and have access to a reliable internet connection.

Language

All reports and documents must be presented in French. Donor proposals shall be prepared in the language and format required by the relevant funding opportunity.

Evaluation Criteria

The proposals will be evaluated based on Consultant’s Qualifications Selection. The technical evaluation committee shall consider the technical proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, with a minimum technical score required of 70 points.

Table 2. Criteria and point system for the evaluation of the technical proposals.

CriteriaPoints maximum
01Hold a master’s degree in a relevant field such as development studies, economics, public policy, business administration, social sciences, climate or environmental studies, or any related discipline.10
02At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in resource mobilization and proposal development for international funders.10
03Demonstrated record of developing and submitting successful international fundraising proposals to bilateral, multilateral, philanthropic, climate-finance or research funding institutions.30
04Experience working with African research institutions, civil-society organizations, think tanks or regional bodies.20
05Strong competence in proposal budgeting, results-based management, monitoring and evaluation, donor compliance and internal quality assurance.20
06Proficiency in French and working knowledge of English.10
 Total100

Submission

Consultants that meet the required profile are requested to submit their proposals no later than 7th August 2026, to the following address: submission@theacbf.org no later than 5:00 p.m. (Harare local time) with the subject: “Recruitment of Individual Consultant to Complete the Outstanding Resource Mobilisation Deliverable for CERAPE”.

RFP Reference No.: ACBF/RFP/002/2026/UBORA
Issue Date: 23 JULY 2026
Contract Duration: Two (2) Years Retainer Agreement

Introduction

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since its establishment in 1991, the Foundation has significantly contributed to strengthening capacity across the continent, supporting over 50,000 public officials, more than 70 institutions of higher learning, and creating a network of over 50 African think tanks.

As part of its 2023–2027 strategic plan, ACBF launched the UBORA Academy, an e-learning and capacity development platform that delivers cutting-edge, pan-African learning solutions to address Africa’s development priorities. UBORA Academy seeks to promote accessible, impactful, and inclusive learning experiences to advance competencies in areas including Economic and Social Governance, Climate Change & Energy for Productive Use, Agribusiness & Food Sovereignty, and Trade as an Engine for Economic Development.

The Webservice consultant will play an important role in the delivery of the Ubora Academy programs and maintenance of its Learning Management System and website.

A. Objectives of the consultancy

The objectives of the consultancy are to provide web services and technical support required to launch the PAID LEAPS programme,  as well as future programmes.

B. Scope Of Work For The Consultant

The consultant is expected to carry out the following tasks.

Maintain, update and provide other required services for the Ubora Academy portal and Learning Management System.

  • Online Program Delivery and Services.
    • Prepare program delivery on the Ubora Academy Learning Management System and provide IT and web technical support to the Academy staff, instructors, and students.
    • Provide support to Ubora Academy clients and external partners when necessary.
  • Any other tasks that may be assigned.

C. Deliverables

  • The Ubora Academy website and LMS are maintained, updated and running optimally.
  • Online delivery programs supported in a timely manner.
  • Functional web and program delivery services.
DeliverableTimeline
The Ubora Academy website and LMS are maintained, updated, and running optimally.At least 15 working days before start of programs.
Online delivery programs supported in a timely manner.Throughout the delivery of the programme
Functional web and program delivery services.Throughout the delivery of the programme. 

D. Qualifications of the Consultant

  • University Degree with a major in Computer Science or Information Systems
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience developing web-based systems for NGOs or similar organizations
  • Strong skills in web development platforms and technologies, including Apache, PHP, CSS3, XML, Ajax, jQuery, HTML5, HTML/XHMTL, Java, JavaScript, and other relevant programming and scripting languages
  • Extensive experience with MySQL and Oracle databases
  • Experience developing or implementing repository management systems or learning management systems would be an advantage
  • Experience developing for mobile environments
  • Experience with Moodle deployment
  • Experience in managing IT services
  • Open, cooperative team player

E. Modalities of Work

The consultant will work remotely to support the preparation and delivery of courses. The programme consists of 5 modules delivered over a period of 4 months.

F. Reporting

The consultant will report to the Ubora Academy Director

G. Payment

The consultant shall be paid a lump sum amount for each course module delivered.

H. Evaluation Criteria

The selection of the successful Consultant will be based on the Individual Consultant Selection Method. Evaluation of the proposals will be evaluated based on evaluating the qualifications and experience of the consultant at a minimum technical score of 70% and above. The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria and point system specified below: A consultant should obtain a minimum score of 70 out of 100 to be considered technically responsive and eligible for financial evaluation.

#Evaluation CriteriaWeight (%)
1University Degree with a major in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field10
2Minimum 5 years’ experience developing web-based systems for NGOs or similar organizations20
3Proficiency in web development technologies (Apache, PHP, CSS3, XML, Ajax, jQuery, HTML5, Java, JavaScript, etc.)20
4Extensive experience with MySQL and Oracle databases10
5Experience developing or implementing repository management systems or Learning Management Systems (LMS)10
6Experience developing applications for mobile environments5
7Experience with Moodle deployment, customization, and administration10
8Experience in managing IT services and supporting digital platforms10
9Open, cooperative team player with strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills5
Total 100

I. Application Process

The application should include: 

  • The Consultant’s CV and cover letter including three references with full contact details.
  • A consultant should submit his understanding of the assignment, work plan, and technical approach to the assignment.
  • A financial proposal detailing the professional fees only, encrypted with a password (The financial proposal is password-protected) as per the key deliverables depicted above.
  • Three examples of similar assignments have been undertaken in the past 5 years. The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm is required.

J. Submission Process

Interested individual consultant are being requested to submit their technical & Financial proposals with the subject clearly marked,” “Consultancy Services for website services to the email address: submission@theacbf.org on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 31 July 2026.

RFP Reference No.: ACBF/RFP/001/2026/UBORA
Issue Date: 23 JULY 2026
Contract Duration: Two (2) Years Retainer Agreement

Introduction

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since its establishment in 1991, the Foundation has significantly contributed to strengthening capacity across the continent, supporting over 50,000 public officials, more than 70 institutions of higher learning, and creating a network of over 50 African think tanks.

As part of its 2023–2027 strategic plan, ACBF launched the UBORA Academy, an e-learning and capacity development platform that delivers cutting-edge, pan-African learning solutions to address Africa’s development priorities. UBORA Academy seeks to promote accessible, impactful, and inclusive learning experiences to advance competencies in areas including Economic and Social Governance, Climate Change & Energy for Productive Use, Agribusiness & Food Sovereignty, and Trade as an Engine for Economic Development.

The Academic program coordination will play an important role in the conception, preparation, delivery, and follow-up of Ubora Academy programs.

A. Objectives of the consultancy

The objective of the consultancy is to coordinate the conception, preparation, delivery, and follow-up of the Ubora Academy programs and courses. This role is essential to the success of programs such as PAID LEAPS and EPIC. The programmes will be offered in English and French.

B. Scope Of Work For The Consultant

The scope of the work of the Academic Programme Coordinator is as follows:

  • Coordinate the establishment of the course budget and the student fees.
  • Identify the minimum registration level and payment deadline.
  • Select the fee payment process.
  • Coordinate programme marketing and student recruitment.
  • Process registration requests & payments when applicable.
  • Provide registration/ payment confirmation.
  • Coordinate student selection.
  • Coordinate classroom access for students and facilitators. 
  • Develop and monitor the programme delivery schedule.
  • Organize the student and facilitators’ induction.
  • Provide administrative support to students and facilitators.
  • Coordinate facilitated sessions.
  • Issue payments to partners, instructors, and relevant vendor/service providers.
  • Coordinate programme evaluation.
  • Any other tasks that may be required. 

C. Deliverables

The deliverables are as follows:

  • Course budget and the student fees established for each programme.
  • Minimum registration level and payment deadline set.
  • Fee payment process selected.
  • Programme marketing and student recruitment coordinated.
  • Registration requests & payments processed.
  • Registration/ payment confirmation provided.
  • Student selection done
  • Classroom access for students and facilitators  provided
  • Programme delivery schedule developed and monitored.
  • Students’ and facilitators’ induction held
  • Administrative support to students and facilitators provided
  • Facilitated sessions coordinated
  • Payments to partners, instructors, vendors and other service providers issued
  • Programme evaluated
SNConsolidated Key DeliverableTimeline
1Programme planning completed, including course budget approval, student fee structure, minimum registration threshold, payment deadlines, and fee payment process established.Within 10 working days of contract commencement
2Marketing and recruitment campaign implemented, and student applications coordinated.Commence within 5 working days of contract commencement and continue until registration closure
3Student registration, payment processing, and confirmations completed, including maintenance of registration records.Ongoing during registration period; final list submitted at least 10 working days before programme start
4Student selection and enrolment finalized, including confirmation of eligible participants meeting programme requirements.At least 10 working days before programme commencement
5Learning environment prepared, including provision of classroom/LMS access for students and facilitators and issuance of access credentials.At least 5 working days before programme commencement
6Programme delivery schedule developed and communicated to all stakeholders.At least 10 working days before programme commencement
7Student and facilitator inductions conducted, and orientation materials provided.Prior to or during the first week of programme delivery
8Programme delivery and coordination managed, including facilitated sessions, attendance monitoring, and ongoing administrative support to students and facilitators.Throughout the programme duration
9Payments to instructors, partners, vendors, and other service providers processed in accordance with approved schedules and contractual obligations.Within agreed payment terms and throughout programme delivery
10Programme monitoring and evaluation completed, including collection of participant feedback, preparation of evaluation report, and recommendations for improvement.Within 15 working days of programme completion

D. Qualifications of the Consultant

  • University degree in teacher education, distance education, educational technologies, or a related field. A master’s degree would be an added advantage.
  • A minimum of 5 years’ experience coordinating e-learning programme delivery in a university, non-governmental, or corporate setting
  • Strong skills in student recruitment, registration, student record-keeping, fee processing, induction, learner and facilitator support, evaluation, and other related coordination and course-related tasks.
  • Familiarity with Learning Management Systems, especially Moodle. 
  • Experience working with an Information Technologist and facilitators to ensure that learners received the required support.

E. Modalities of Work

The consultant will work remotely to support the preparation and delivery of programmes. The programme consists of 5 modules which will be delivered over a 4-month period.

F. Reporting

The consultant will report to the Ubora Academy Director

G. Renumeration

The consultant shall be paid a lump sum amount for each module delivered. If the programme has 5 modules, the total lump sum will be provided.

H. Evaluation Criteria

The selection of the successful Consultant will be based on the Individual Consultant Selection Method. Evaluation of the proposals will be evaluated based on evaluating the qualifications and experience of the consultant at a minimum technical score of 70% and above. The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria and point system specified below: A consultant should obtain a minimum score of 70 out of 100 to be considered technically responsive and eligible for financial evaluation.

CriteriaDescriptionScore (%)
Educational QualificationsUniversity degree in Teacher Education, Distance Education, Educational Technologies, or related field. Master’s degree is an added advantage.15
Relevant Experience in Programme CoordinationMinimum 5 years’ experience coordinating e-learning or blended learning programmes in a university, NGO, training institution, or corporate environment.30
Student Administration and Support CompetenciesDemonstrated experience in student recruitment, registration, records management, fee administration, induction, learner support, facilitator support, and programme administration.20
Learning Management Systems (LMS) FamiliarityPractical experience coordinating with Webservice specialist on supporting learners  on the use of LMS platforms, preferably Moodle, including learner enrollment, reporting, user management, and troubleshooting.15
Stakeholder Coordination and Team CollaborationExperience working with Information Technologists, facilitators, instructors, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure effective programme delivery and learner support.10
Methodology and Understanding of AssignmentDemonstrated understanding of the assignment, proposed approach, work plan, and ability to meet deliverables within timelines.10
Total 100

I. Application Process

The application should include: 

The Consultant’s CV and cover letter including three references with full contact details.

A consultant should submit his understanding of the assignment, work plan, and technical approach to the assignment.

A financial proposal detailing the professional fees only encrypted with a password (The financial proposal with a password protected) as per the key deliverables depicted in table 1 above).

Three examples of similar assignments undertaken in the past 10 years. The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm is required.

Submission Process

Interested individual consultants are being requested to submit their technical & Financial proposals with the subject clearly marked,” “Consultancy Services for Academic Programme Coordinatorto email address: submission@theacbf.org on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 31 July 2026.

Tender Reference:  ACBF/RFP/011/2026/PASA

ACBF has allocated funds for Consultancy Services for Strategic Technical Support Services for the Integrated Design, Strategic Foresight and Enterprise Acceleration of the Pan-African Sanitation Industrialization Platform (PA-SIP) and hereby invite all potential consultancy firms to submit proposals as per the requirements of the request for proposal document Ref: ACBF/RFP/011/2026/PASA.

More details on the Services are provided in the Terms of Reference (Section 5) in the attached RFP document.

A firm will be selected under Quality Cost Based Selection Method procedures and in a Full Technical Proposal (FTP) format as described in this RFP, in accordance with the policies of the detailed in the Consultants’ Guidelines.

The RFP includes the following documents:

  1. Section 1 – Letter of Invitation
  2. Section 2 – Instructions to Consultants and Data Sheet
  3. Section 3 – Technical Proposal FTP – Standard Forms
  4. Section 4 – Financial Proposal – Standard Forms
  5. Section 5 – Terms of Reference
  6. Section 6 – Standard Forms of Contract Lumpsum

Consultancy firms are being requested to submit their proposal with the subject clearly marked, RFP Process No.: ACBF/RFP/011/2026/PASA Consultancy Services,” to email address:  submission@theacbf.org on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 14th July 2026,  17:00 hours (Harare Time).

 Please find here the link to the RFP Document and Terms of Reference

1.Background

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is a pan-African institution established in 1991 by African countries with the support of bilateral and multilateral partners. The Foundation’s mandate is to develop human capital and accelerate institutional development to enable the African continent to address its current and future sustainable development challenges. In this regard, it supports human capital development and institutional strengthening in governments, private sector associations, civil society organizations, think tanks, academia, and research institutions at national, regional, and continental levels to improve their capacity to deliver sustainable development results.

Since 2017, ACBF has also been recognized as a Specialized Agency of the African Union for Capacity Development, as conferred by African Heads of State and Government, with the mandate to drive the continent’s capacity development agenda.

ACBF is currently executing its Strategic Plan 2023-2027 seeks to enhance Africa’s transformation ecosystem with fit-for-purpose delivery capabilities for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The Plan focuses on four key impact areas namely: i) Climate Change and Energy for Productive Use, ii) Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, iii) Trade as an Engine of Economic Development and iv) Economic and Social Governance.

Additionally, the Plan leverages ACBF’s institutional strengths in areas such as youth employment, gender, digitalization, and data, while fostering strategic partnerships for effective implementation.

2. Justification

Under its Economic and Social Governance key impact area, ACBF implements several programs aimed at achieving three strategic objectives: enhancing evidence-based and purpose driven policymaking; Increasing Domestic Resource Mobilization for sustainable development financing; and improving the performance of PFM Systems. One of the programs implemented by ACBF to achieve these objectives, is the Strengthening PFM Analysis, Research and Institutions (SPARI). A 3-year intervention implemented in 4 pilot countries: Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Senegal.

To effectively set the foundational phase of the program, ACBF needed to have a deeper understanding of the political economy context in the target countries, and the impact such contexts had on fiscal policy decision-making and outcomes. This entailed the undertaking of a comprehensive fiscal ecosystem analysis of the roles played by various stakeholders (both state and non-state) involved in fiscal governance in the four (4) countries, including finance and sector ministries, legislatures, supreme audit institutions, CSOs, think tanks, media, private sector actors, etc. Understanding the relative powers of these different actors, their relationships and existing and possible collaborations was critical to formulating reform options that will advance more accountable and equitable fiscal policies.

ACBF has already contracted a firm to undertake the fiscal ecosystem analysis and produce a synthesised report that outlines the crucial actors in these ecosystems, their relationship dynamics and how their interactions have impacted public finance outcomes. From the findings of these assessments, ACBF will engage the identified institutions to assess their capacity gaps that can be strengthened through the SPARI program, to enable them to develop evidence-based alternatives that present optimal investments in key social sectors e.g. health and better influence fiscal policy.

Therefore, ACBF seeks to contract a qualified consultancy firm to undertake capacity needs assessments of the key institutions identified through the fiscal ecosystem analysis and develop a capacity improvement plan to strengthen their capacity to undertake PFM research, develop credible policy alternatives capacities and build in-country networks to influence fiscal policy decision-making.

3. Objectives of the Assignment

The overall objective of this assignment is to conduct institutional capacity needs assessment and identify capacity gaps that have prevented PFM research institutions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal from effectively developing credible policy alternatives and influencing PFM decision-making.

The specific objectives include, to:

  • Review the fiscal ecosystem analysis reports to identify the key PFM research institutions in the target countries and the various challenges that have prevented them from effectively implementing their mandates.
  • Develop a methodological approach for undertaking the institutional capacity needs assessments for these institutions.
  • Assess the capacity gaps of the PFM research institutions and identify opportunities for capacity strengthening.
  • Propose a capacity improvement plan for the PFM research institutions of each of the target countries to inform the detailed design of the SPARI program interventions.

4. Scope of work

The Consultant(s) will carry out the following activities:

  • Review the fiscal ecosystem analysis report to identify key PFM research institutions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal and analyse their dynamics within the ecosystem as well as the challenges they face in effectively influencing macro-fiscal policy.
  • Develop the institutional capacity needs assessment framework to assess the current institutional capacity, tools, methodologies and gaps.
  • Administer the needs assessment framework and engage with the various stakeholders to establish priority capacity building areas to strengthen fiscal policy research and advocacy.
  • Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the findings, analysis, and recommendations of the institutional capacity needs assessment and present it to stakeholders for the design of the capacity improvement plan.
  • Propose customized capacity improvement plan for strengthening PFM research and institutions based on identified capacity gaps.
  • Support ACBF and country partners in disseminating the results of the institutional needs assessment as well as the capacity improvement plan.

5. Methodology

The capacity needs assessment process will involve:

  • Desk review of the fiscal ecosystem analysis report
  • Development of robust institutional needs assessment framework
  • Individual and focus group Interviews and consultations to assess capacity needs of identified institutions
  • Data collection, analysis, and reporting related to PFM research, analysis and fiscal policy influencing.
  • Developing capacity improvement plan.
  • Disseminating the needs assessment findings and capacity improvement plan to stakeholders for their concurrence.

6. Expected Outputs and Deliverables

The Consultant(s) will produce the following deliverables:

  • An inception report highlighting the Consultant(s) understanding of the assignment, proposed methodology and detailed work plan.
  • Institutional capacity needs assessment framework/tools.
  • Draft Institutional capacity needs assessment report that highlights key capacity needs of the PFM research institutions.
  • The final report per country.
  • Synthesized report consolidating the key findings from each country i.e., identifying the common themes, similarities and differences in the four (4) countries.
  • Customized capacity improvement plan (including result measurement framework) for strengthening PFM research, analysis and policy influencing.
  • Risk analysis and mitigation plan.
  • Recommendations for the effective implementation of the program.

7. Assignment Duration and Schedule

The assignment will be implemented over a period of 46 working days period from 7th August 2026 to 9th October 2026, based on the following schedule breakdown:

DescriptionDeadline
Signing of contract07/08/2026
Inception report, including the methodological approach21/08/2026
Institutional needs assessment frameworks and tools21/08/2026
First draft report for each of the four countries18/09/2026
Final report for each of the four countries and Capacity Improvement Plan30/09/2026
Synthesized Report09/10/2026

8. Qualifications and Experience

The Consultants should have:

Team Leader:

  • A minimum of a master’s degree in public financial management, Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or related fields. PhD degree in the fields above will be an added advantage.
  • Proven experience in conducting needs assessment and recommending capacity building interventions, i.e. at least 15 (fifteen) years of professional experience conducting similar assignments in African context.
  • Proven experience working with senior officials in macro-fiscal think tanks, civil society organizations and key PFM institutions e.g. Ministry of Finance, Auditor General, Parliament etc.
  • Strong experience in and knowledge of the African fiscal ecosystem especially PFM research and advocacy.
  • Strong analytical and technical writing skills with the ability to synthesize research and policy reports for diverse audiences.
  • Fluency in English and French is mandatory.

Team member:

  • A minimum of a master’s degree in governance, Business Administration, Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or related fields. PhD degree in the fields above will be an added advantage.
  • Proven experience in conducting needs assessment and in supporting institutional capacity development for research institutions, i.e. at least 10 (ten) years of professional experience conducting similar assignments in African context.
  • Proven experience developing Macro fiscal think tanks governance system and working for macro-fiscal think tanks, etc.
  • Strong experience in and knowledge of the African fiscal ecosystem especially PFM research.
  • Strong analytical and technical writing skills with the ability to synthesize research and policy reports for diverse audiences.
  • Fluency in English or French is mandatory.

9. Consultant’s Supervision and Collaborative Inputs

The Consultants will work closely with ACBF staff and report directly to the Head of the Economic and Social Governance Unit, under the overall supervision of the Director, Programs and Impact Department. All deliverables will be subject to review and approval by ACBF.

10. Evaluation of Proposals

Proposals will be evaluated based on quality and cost-based selection criteria. The minimum technical score required to pass is 70 points, with technical and financial weights of 70% and 30%, respectively.

The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria, and point system specified below.  A technical proposal shall be rejected at this stage if it does not respond to key aspects of the Terms of Reference or if it fails to achieve the minimum technical score indicated.  

CriteriaMax Points (100) 
1A minimum of a Master’s degree in Public Finance, Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related field. PhD degree in the above fields will be an advantage.15
2At least 15 years of demonstratable professional experience conducting similar assignments in African context20
3Proven experience working with senior officials in macro-fiscal think tanks, civil society organizations and key PFM institutions e.g. Ministry of Finance, Auditor General, Parliament etc.20
4Strong experience in and knowledge of the African fiscal ecosystem especially PFM research and advocacy.20
5Strong analytical and technical writing skills with the ability to synthesize research and policy reports for diverse audiences.15
6Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills in English and French10
Total  100

11. Location and Working Arrangements

This assignment is both a field and home-based consultancy. The Consultant(s) will be given access to ACBF relevant information such as the fiscal ecosystem analysis reports and the program documents. They will be responsible for providing their own workstations (i.e., laptop, internet, phone, scanner/printer, etc.) and an access to a reliable internet connection. In case of travel to target countries, ACBF will be responsible for all related costs.

12. Application Process

The Consultancy firm should submit the following:   

  • The Consultant’s CV and cover letters including three references with full contact details.
  •  A technical proposal detailing the proposed approach and methodology for the assignment. 
  •  A financial proposal detailing the consultancy fee and other related costs encrypted with a password (The financial proposal with a password protected should have budget breakdown as per the deliverables depicted in table 1 above). Please note that this assignment is being implemented within a restricted budget; therefore, firms are strongly encouraged to submit efficient, realistic, and competitive financial proposals to enhance their chances of success.
  • Three examples of similar assignments undertaken in the past 5 years. The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm is required.

13. Submission Process

Consultancy firms are being requested to submit their technical & Financial proposals with the subject clearly marked,” “Consultancy to undertake Institutional Needs Assessments to Strengthen PFM Research Institutions in Four (4) African Countries” to email address: submission@theacbf.org on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 6th July 2026.

1. Background and Context

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is a pan-African institution dedicated to building sustainable human and institutional capacity for Africa’s development. Through its programmes across multiple thematic areas—including governance, public health, agribusiness, climate, and trade—ACBF works extensively with civil society organizations (CSOs) and non-profit institutions. These organizations play a critical role in policy advocacy, service delivery, and development outcomes across the continent.

A recurring challenge observed across ACBF-supported institutions is the heavy reliance on external donor funding, which is often short-term and project-based, limited in scope and flexibility, and concentrated among a small pool of largely external funders.

This has resulted in weak financial sustainability, limited diversification of funding sources, inadequate capacity for strategic and innovative resource mobilization, and constraints in sustaining long-term programmatic impact.

While these insights have been strongly informed by ACBF’s Tobacco Control (TC) Programme (2014–2027), similar patterns are evident across other sectors. ACBF’s experience further demonstrates that resource mobilization challenges are not only externally driven but are significantly influenced by internal institutional weaknesses, including:

  • Weak governance structures and limited board effectiveness
  • Inadequate financial management systems and internal controls
  • Lack of transparent and accountable processes
  • Weak organizational systems, policies, and procedures
  • Limited strategic clarity and institutional positioning
  • Limited skills in mapping and engaging funding partners

Such deficiencies undermine donor confidence and constrain the ability of organizations to attract, manage, and sustain funding.

ACBF recognizes that effective resource mobilization is not merely a fundraising function but an outcome of strong institutional capacity, governance, financial integrity, leadership, and organizational credibility.

In response, ACBF seeks to develop a comprehensive, practical, and cross-sectoral training program that integrates resource mobilization with institutional strengthening. The program will be piloted through a face-to-face training workshop involving ACBF-supported institutions and sub-grantees and subsequently refined and digitized for hosting on ACBF’s UBORA Academy Platform as a flagship capacity development product for CSOs across Africa.

Objective of the Assignment

The overall objective of this consultancy is to develop, deliver, validate, refine, and package a comprehensive, practical, and cross-sectoral training program on resource mobilization, partnerships, and institutional sustainability for CSOs and non-profit organizations in Africa.

The training program shall integrate institutional strengthening, governance, leadership, financial management, and organizational sustainability as critical enablers of effective resource mobilization. The assignment shall culminate in the delivery of a face-to-face pilot training workshop for ACBF-supported institutions and sub-grantees, whose feedback and learning experiences will be used to refine and package the course as a high-quality online learning programme for hosting on ACBF’s UBORA Academy Platform.

Specific Objectives

The consultant will:

  1. Conduct a cross-sectoral diagnostic assessment of resource mobilization capacities and constraints among ACBF-supported institutions.
  2. Identify institutional, structural, and contextual factors affecting resource mobilization.
  3. Map possible donors, partners, and financing opportunities relevant to civil society organizations, with particular attention to tobacco control and public health.
  4. Develop a modular, practical, and application-oriented training curriculum, including learning objectives, course structure, instructional content, practical exercises, case studies, tools, and assessment methodologies aligned with the needs of African CSOs.
  5. Integrate innovative, diversified, and sustainable financing approaches relevant to African CSOs.
  6. Develop comprehensive learning materials and training tools to support both face-to-face and online delivery.
  7. Deliver a face-to-face pilot training workshop for selected ACBF-supported institutions and sub-grantees.
  8. Assess participant learning outcomes and collect feedback to strengthen and refine the program.
  9. Deliver, validate, refine, and package the training program into a structured e-learning course suitable for hosting on ACBF’s UBORA Academy Platform.

Scope of Work

The assignment will be implemented in six interrelated phases.

Phase I: Inception and Conceptual Framing

  • Engage ACBF technical teams to refine expectations and approach.
  • Develop an inception report detailing:
    • Conceptual framework linking resource mobilization to institutional capacity.
    • Diagnostic Assessment and Insight Generation based on TC CSOs experiences
    • Detailed workplan and timelines.

 Phase II: Curriculum Design and Course Development Development

The consultant will develop comprehensive content for the training curriculum that covers, but not limited to:

A. Resource Mobilization Fundamentals

B. Partnerships and Strategic Positioning

C. Institutional Foundations for Sustainability

D. Innovative Financing Approaches

E. Sustainability and Organizational Resilience

Phase III: Pilot Training Delivery and Validation

The consultant will organize and facilitate a face-to-face training workshop for selected ACBF-supported institutions and sub-grantees.

The consultant will:

  • Deliver the full training program.
  • Facilitate practical exercises, simulations, and case discussions.
  • Conduct pre- and post-training assessments.
  • Collect participant feedback.
  • Evaluate participant learning outcomes.
  • Identify opportunities for improving the training program.

Learning Design Requirements:

  • Clear learning objectives.
  • Practical tools and templates.
  • Real-life case studies, including ACBF-supported institutions.
  • Interactive exercises and simulations.
  • Participant assignments and action planning tools.

Phase IV: Course Refinement and Validation

The consultant will:

  • Review training outcomes and participant feedback.
  • Refine curriculum content, methodologies, tools, and learning materials.
  • Strengthen modules based on practical implementation experience.
  • Finalize the validated training programme.

Expected Output:

The consultant will ultimately submit the following to ACBF,

  • Facilitator Guide.
  • Participant Manual.
  • PowerPoint Slide Decks.
  • Assessment Tools.
  • Practical Exercises.
  • Case Studies.
  • Knowledge Checks and Assignments.
  • Resource Library and Templates.
    • Structure content into online learning modules suitable for UBORA Academy.
    • Prepare course architecture and learning pathways for digitization.

Assignment Duration and Timelines

The assignment is expected to be implemented in 30 days over the period July to October 2026, covering the design, piloting, refinement, validation, and packaging of the Resource Mobilization, Partnership Development, and Sustainability Training Program.

Given the strategic importance of the training component, the Consultant shall prioritize the development of the core curriculum and associated learning materials to enable the delivery of the pilot face-to-face training workshop during the first week of August 2026, in conjunction with the TC3 Mid-Term Review Validation Workshop.

While the indicative assignment period is June–October 2026, bidders are required to submit a detailed and realistic workplan outlining their proposed timelines, milestones, and sequencing of activities. The proposed workplan should clearly demonstrate how the pilot training workshop will be delivered by the first week of August 2026 while ensuring sufficient time for post-training refinement, validation, and final packaging of the program.

Deliverables

PhaseKey DeliverableDescriptionNo. Of DaysDaily Rate(USD)Amount ( USD)
Phase I: Inception and Conceptual FramingInception ReportComprehensive inception report detailing the assignment methodology, conceptual framework linking resource mobilization and institutional capacity, diagnostic assessment findings and insights from TC CSOs, stakeholder engagement approach, workplan, timelines, and quality assurance arrangements.   
Phase II: Curriculum Design and Course DevelopmentDraft Resource Mobilization and Sustainability CurriculumComprehensive training curriculum covering: (i) Resource Mobilization Fundamentals; (ii) Partnerships and Strategic Positioning; (iii) Institutional Foundations for Sustainability; (iv) Innovative Financing Approaches; and (v) Sustainability and Organizational Resilience.   
Draft Training PackageComplete draft training package comprising facilitator guide, participant manual, PowerPoint presentations, practical exercises, case studies, assessment tools, knowledge checks, assignments, templates, and resource materials.   
Phase III: Pilot Training Delivery and ValidationPilot Training Workshop DeliveredDelivery of a face-to-face pilot training workshop for ACBF-supported institutions and sub-grantees, including facilitation of practical exercises, simulations, case discussions, and action planning sessions.   
Training Assessment and Validation ReportReport summarizing participant attendance, pre- and post-training assessment results, participant feedback, learning outcomes achieved, lessons learned, and recommendations for strengthening the curriculum and delivery methodology.   
Phase IV: Course Refinement and ValidationFinal Validated Training ProgramRevised and validated curriculum incorporating lessons from the pilot training, participant feedback, and ACBF technical review comments.   
Final Training PackageFinalized facilitator guide, participant manual, PowerPoint slide decks, practical exercises, case studies, assessment tools, knowledge checks, assignments, templates, and resource library ready for deployment.   
Final Assignment DeliverableCompletion ReportFinal consultancy report summarizing methodology, key findings, training outcomes, recommendations, lessons learned, and all developed training products submitted to ACBF.   

#Please make use of this table for your financial proposal to indicate your timelines and the daily rate

Qualifications and Experience Requirements

The consultant should possess:

  • Advanced university degree (Master’s level or higher) in Development Studies, Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Finance, Organizational Development, or related disciplines.
  • Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in resource mobilization, fundraising, partnerships, and institutional capacity development.
  • Proven experience supporting CSOs and development organizations in Africa.
  • Demonstrated expertise in governance, financial sustainability, institutional strengthening, and organizational development.
  • Extensive experience in curriculum design and adult learning methodologies.
  • Proven experience in facilitating professional training workshops and capacity-building interventions.
  • Experience in training-of-trainers (ToT) methodologies.
  • Experience in developing online learning products and e-learning content.
  • Strong facilitation, communication, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Multi-sector experience within Africa will be an added advantage.

Reporting and Coordination

The consultant will report to the Head of Special Programs and work closely with designated ACBF technical teams throughout the assignment.

Evaluation Criteria

The selection of the successful candidate will be based on Individual consultant selection Method. Evaluation of the proposals will be evaluated based evaluating the qualifications and experience of the consultant at a minimum technical score of 80% and above. The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria, and point system specified below:

CriteriaDescriptionScore
Understanding of the AssignmentDemonstrates understanding of the assignment objectives, context, sustainability challenges facing African CSOs, and the link between institutional capacity and resource mobilization.10
Technical Approach and MethodologyQuality, coherence, innovation, and practicality of the proposed methodology, including diagnostic assessment, curriculum development, pilot delivery, validation, and digitization approach.20
Resource Mobilization and Institutional Sustainability ExpertiseDemonstrated experience in resource mobilization, fundraising, donor engagement, partnership development, governance strengthening, financial sustainability, and institutional development.25
Training, Curriculum Development and Adult Learning ExpertiseDemonstrated experience designing and delivering high-quality training programmes, learning materials, facilitation tools, and e-learning or online learning products.20
Tobacco Control and African CSO ExperienceExperience working within the tobacco control ecosystem and/or supporting African CSOs, public health, advocacy, or development organizations in sustainability and resource mobilization.20
Quality and Feasibility of WorkplanRealism, sequencing, and feasibility of proposed timelines and deliverables, including ability to deliver the pilot workshop by August 2026.5
Total 100

Application Process

The application should include:

The Consultant’s CV and cover letter including three references with full contact details. If applying as a team, CVs for all the team members should be provided, and a clear detail of the roles they will play, is essential.

A technical proposal detailing the proposed approach and methodology for the assignment.

A financial proposal detailing the consultancy fee and other related costs encrypted with a password (The financial proposal with a password protected should have budget breakdown as per the deliverables depicted in table 1 above). Please note that this assignment is being implemented within a restricted budget; therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit efficient, realistic, and competitive financial proposals to enhance their chances of success.

Three examples of similar assignments undertaken in the past 5 years. The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm is required.

Submission Process

Consultancy firms are being requested to submit their technical & Financial  proposals with the subject clearly marked,” “Consultancy Services for RM Curricular Development” to email address: submission@acbf-pact.org on or before 17.00 hours (local Harare time), on 23rd June 2026.

Ref: ACBF/RFP/010/26/PASA

1.   Background

The African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), with support from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), is implementing an institutional strengthening initiative aimed at enhancing organizational systems, governance, and operational effectiveness.

As part of this initiative, a Capacity Needs Assessment (CNA) was conducted to assess AfWASA’s institutional capacity across key functional areas. The assessment identified significant gaps in program management, with an overall score of 44%, highlighting weaknesses in:

  • Program planning and implementation.
  • Operational planning.
  • Expertise in program management.
  • Progress reporting.
  • Program–finance integration; and
  • Institutionalization of program management systems.

The assessment established that program management at AfWASA is largely operational and practice-driven, with implementation heavily influenced by donor-specific requirements rather than a standardized institutional framework. The existing program management manual dated 2017 is outdated, weakly operationalized, and not widely understood across the organization.

The CNA further identified the need to:

  • Clarify and institutionalize a standard AfWASA program management cycle.
  • Review and operationalize the existing program management manual.
  • Develop standardized planning, monitoring, reporting, and risk management tools.
  • Strengthen program–finance integration.
  • Improve program monitoring and progress reporting systems.
  • Introduce structured learning and review processes; and
  • Build staff capacity in results-based and program cycle management.

It is against this background that ACBF intends to support AfWASA in strengthening and institutionalizing its program management systems and practices.

2.  Objective of the Consultancy

To strengthen AfWASA’s program management function through the development and institutionalization of a standardized, integrated, and operational program management system aligned with international best practices.

2.1   Specific Objectives

The assignment will specifically:

  1. Develop and institutionalize a clear AfWASA program management framework and cycle.
  2. Review and update the existing program management manual.
  3. Develop standardized operational tools and templates for planning, monitoring, budgeting, and reporting.
  4. Strengthen integration between program implementation and financial management processes.
  5. Build staff capacity in results-based management and program cycle management; and
  6. Establish structured learning, review, and risk management processes.

3.  Scope of Work

The following tasks will be undertaken:

3.1   Inception and Diagnostic Validation

  • Review the CNA report and other relevant institutional documents.
  • Conduct consultations with AfWASA management and staff.
  • Validate and prioritize key program management gaps.
  • Prepare an inception report detailing methodology, workplan, and implementation approach.

3.2   Development of Program Management Framework

  • Design a standardized AfWASA program management cycle.
  • Define roles, responsibilities, and approval processes across the program cycle.
  • Develop quality assurance and risk management mechanisms.
  • Ensure alignment with AfWASA strategic priorities and donor requirements.

3.3   Review and Update of Program Management Manual

  • Review the existing 2017 program management manual.
  • Develop a revised and operational manual.
  • Integrate practical tools, procedures, templates, and reporting standards.
  • Ensure the manual is user-friendly and aligned to Results-Based Management (RBM) principles.

3.3.1  Program Management Tools and Systems

The Manual will be inclusive of the following

  • Develop standardized templates for:
    • Annual work planning.
    • Quarterly and annual reporting.
    • Program monitoring and tracking.
    • Risk management and issue tracking.
    • Mid-year and end-year reviews.
  • Recommend suitable options for a program management information system/software.

3.4   Strengthening Program–Finance Integration

  • Develop mechanisms for integrated planning and budget monitoring.
  • Define coordination workflows between program and finance functions.
  • Establish regular financial reporting and review mechanisms for program teams.

3.5    Capacity Building and Institutionalization

  • Design and deliver training sessions in:
    • Results-Based Program Management.
    • Planning, monitoring, and reporting.
  • Conduct practical coaching and orientation sessions.
  • Support institutionalization and internal adoption of systems and tools.

3.6    Final Reporting

  • Prepare and submit a final consultancy report summarizing activities undertaken, outputs delivered, lessons learned, and recommendations.

4     Expected Deliverables and Timelines

The assignment is expected to be undertaken in 20 days over a period of 3 months.

Key DeliverableDescriptionCompletion TimelinesDaily RateAmount (USD)
Inception ReportMethodology, workplan, and validated gaps2 days
Program Management FrameworkStandardized program management cycle and governance arrangements6 days
Revised Program Management ManualUpdated manual with operational tools and templates; Planning, reporting, monitoring, and risk management templates; and Coordination and budget monitoring mechanisms6 days
Capacity Building Sessions, with a packaged presentation that can be used to onboard new staff in the futureTraining and coaching sessions conducted to orient staff on the newly developed framework, manual and tools3 days
Final ReportConsolidated final report and recommendations2 days
Total20 days

5   Remuneration

The consultancy package shall be milestone-based and linked to satisfactory completion and approval of deliverables.

The consultant shall be remunerated at a professional fee rate of per day for a maximum of 20 working days.

DeliverableTimeline
Inception Report3 days
Program Management Framework6 days
Revised Program Management Manual6 days
Capacity Building Sessions3 days
Final Report2 days
20 days

6    Reporting Arrangements

The consultant shall report to the African Capacity Building Foundation- Special Programs Department and shall work closely with designated Project Officers at AfWASA throughout the assignment.

7    Evaluation Criteria

The selection method for this assignment is individual consultant selection. The technical evaluation committee shall evaluate the CVs and experience based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, with a minimum technical score required being 70 Points specified below. 

Evaluation CriteriaDescriptionScore
1. Academic Qualifications and Professional CertificationAdvanced university degree in Project/Program Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, Development Studies, Monitoring & Evaluation, Finance, Organizational Development, or related field. Professional certifications in Program/Project Management, RBM, or related disciplines will be an added advantage.15
2. Demonstrated Experience in Institutional Program Management Systems StrengtheningProven experience in reviewing, designing, and institutionalizing program management systems, operational manuals, planning frameworks, reporting systems, and organizational procedures within regional/international organizations, development institutions, CSOs, or public institutions.25
3. Technical Understanding of Results-Based Management and Program–Finance IntegrationDemonstrated expertise in Results-Based Management (RBM), program cycle management, operational planning, performance monitoring, risk management, reporting systems, and integration of programmatic and financial management processes.20
4. Methodology and Approach to the AssignmentQuality, practicality, and responsiveness of the proposed methodology and workplan in relation to the Terms of Reference, including institutionalization approach, stakeholder engagement strategy, capacity building methodology, and sustainability considerations.25
5. Capacity Building, Facilitation, and Knowledge Transfer SkillsDemonstrated experience in conducting institutional training, coaching, facilitation, systems orientation, and supporting organizational adoption of new frameworks, tools, and procedures. Evidence of strong communication and report writing skills will be required.15
Total100

A technical proposal shall be rejected at this stage if it does not respond to important aspects of the Terms of Reference or if it fails to achieve the minimum technical score indicated. The minimum technical score required to pass is: 70 Points.

At financial evaluation, the most competitive financial proposal will be selected. The consultant should detail how their payments are structured and any related terms thereof in relation to the key deliverables.

8    Qualifications, Experience and Competencies Requirements

  • Advanced university degree in Project Management, Public Administration, Development Studies, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or related fields.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in program management systems strengthening.
  • Proven experience in Results-Based Management (RBM) and program cycle management.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing institutional manuals, frameworks, and operational systems.
  • Proven experience in capacity building, facilitation, and organizational strengthening.
  • Experience working with regional or international organizations, preferably in Africa.
  • Strong understanding of multi-donor project management environments.
  • Excellent analytical and facilitation skills.
  • Strong report writing and communication skills.
  • Ability to deliver practical and implementable institutional solutions.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and coordination skills.

9    Language

All reports should be written in English and French, single spacing font size 12, Raleway/Roboto and submitted as both word and pdf versions, in ACBF document templates, which will be provided.

10  Confidentiality and Ownership of Deliverables

All documents, reports, manuals, tools, and materials developed under this consultancy shall remain the property of AfWASA and ACBF. The consultant shall treat all information obtained during the assignment as confidential and shall not disclose it without prior written authorization.

11. Submission Process 

An individual consultant interested in applying for the consultancy must submit the following documents/information to demonstrate their qualifications: 

  • A technical proposal includes a brief methodology on how they will approach and conduct the assignment in line with the TOR. 
  • A financial Proposal with a Password which aligns with the technical approach as per the key deliverables. 
  • Rationale for their suitability for the role, including their experience and evidence in similar assignments.
  • Curriculum vitae of the consultant for the assignment, as per the criteria outlined in the TOR.  
  • The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm. 

An individual consultant is being requested to submit their proposal with the subject clearly marked, RFP Process No.:16th June 2026 Consultancy Services, to the email address: submissions@theacbf.org on or before 11:00 am Harare local time.

Tender Ref: ACBF RFP/RB/005/26WAAVPN

1. Background

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development, is dedicated to enhancing the capacity of African institutions to strategically harness the continent’s expertise and resources to drive sustainable and impactful development outcomes. In furtherance of this mandate, ACBF is implementing the “World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology – African Network (WAAVP-AN)” program, designed to enhance institutional and technical capacity for the effective control of animal and zoonotic parasitic diseases in Africa. WAAVP-AN is a pan-African umbrella network bringing together individuals and institutions committed to strengthening the control of parasitic diseases in animals, advancing veterinary parasitology practice, improving animal welfare, and supporting sustainable livestock production across Africa.

Under the WAAVP-AN program, supported by a grant from the Gates Foundation, ACBF is advancing innovative research and capacity development through sub-grants to African experts. The program is designed to catalyse transformative, locally co-created solutions that are contextually relevant, widely accepted, and sustainably adopted to address the burden of livestock parasitic diseases across the continent. In this context, ACBF intends to engage an individual consultant to develop a comprehensive resource mobilization strategy for WAAVP-AN. This strategy will be critical in identifying and securing sustainable funding to support program implementation and operational continuity beyond the Gates Foundation funding cycle ending in June 2028.

2. Objective of the assignment

The primary objective of this assignment is to design a resource mobilization and strategic partnerships strategy for WAAVP-AN that is responsive to the evolving global donor landscape, identify new and emerging partners, explore diverse funding mechanisms, and provide a structured approach to strengthening and leveraging both existing and prospective partnerships. The strategy will propose actionable recommendations to diversify WAAVP-AN’s resource base and will play a critical role in enabling the effective implementation of the Network’s strategic plan while securing its long-term sustainability.

Scope of work

Specifically, the consultant is required to undertake the following.

  • Undertake a comprehensive review of WAAVP-AN’s history, strategic framework, work plan, and funding model to generate insights into its priorities, identify funding gaps, and inform strategies for positioning the network for sustainable resource mobilization.
  • Consult with the WAAVP-AN team to understand the organization’s vision, mission, and strategic focus areas.
  • Conduct a comprehensive analysis of potential donors worldwide based on geographic and thematic interest and assess the feasibility of securing multiyear and/or thematic funding.
  • Map donors’ strategic areas of interest and explore opportunities for partnerships from emerging donors.
  • Develop a plan and practical methodologies of engaging new donors (traditional and non-traditional) and effectively re-engage and retain existing donors.
  • Develop objectives for fundraising methods, strategies, and focus (bilateral, private sector, public funding, foundations, membership, philanthropy among others), including innovative financing initiatives and mechanisms to stabilize the flow of funds, with a focus on both traditional and non-traditional funding sources.
  • Develop various methods and strategies for generating income/revenue by the Network through existing or new mechanisms and provision of services at market rates.
  • Recommend strategies to develop and maintain strategic partnerships and engagement with key donors.
  • Develop strategies for growing subscription of membership (at both individual and institutional level, including affiliations) as a possible source of revenue.

3. Key Deliverables and Timelines

The assignment is expected to be conducted in 20 working days stretched over 2 months, covering August and September. The expected end date is 10 September 2026. The key deliverables are as follows.

NOTE: Please use the above key deliverable table as a format to prepare your financial proposal

Key DeliverableCompletion TimelinesDaily RateAmount (USD)
1. Preparation and presentation of an Inception Report to ACBF and WAAVP-AN summarizing the consultant’s understanding of the scope of work, deliverables, and a detailed work plan including tasks, duration, start and end dates.2 days
2. A comprehensive resource mobilization strategy that includes
an overview of the situation analysis, a critical analysis of past fundraising experience, exploration of future opportunities and strategies, and detailed workflow and plan on how WAAVP-AN will raise funds to support the achievement of its key activities. The strategy should include 12 days diversified and sustainable revenue generation approaches.
12 days
3. An annex that maps donor interests, priorities, funding windows, typical funding amounts, focal points, and points to clear actions that should be taken to mobilize funds and develop/maintain relationships with donors.2 days
4. A comprehensive capacity-building and skills development
plan
for key staff to strengthen competencies in resource mobilization, resource leveraging, and partnership development and management, including the delivery of online training session(s).
4 days
Total (USD)

4. Technical Expertise Required

The Consultant shall have the demonstrated capability of developing resource mobilization/ fundraising/ partnership building strategies.

The Consultant will be required to provide evidence of having successfully completed similar assignments and have the following minimum qualifications and attributes:

  • An advanced university degree in Social Sciences, Development, Planning, Business Administration, Communication, Finance or a related field.
  • In-depth knowledge and understanding of the global animal health and development landscape, and familiarity and/or experience with global animal health institutions are an added advantage.
  • Proven experience in the development sector, preferably in fundraising, resource mobilization or partnership building ideally including proposal and report writing.
  • Experienced in developing Resource Mobilization and Strategic Partnership Strategies for Not for Profit Regional and International Organizations is required (evidence of such must be provided).
  • Good analytical, coherent, clear documentation/report writing skills.
  • Good communication and facilitation skills.
  •  Proficiency in English.

5. Modalities of Delivery

The Consultant will primarily perform the assignment remotely from their country of residence and will be responsible for furnishing all the necessary equipment and materials, including a laptop, to ensure the successful and timely delivery of the assignment. The Consultant is required to disclose whether the assignment will be carried out in partnership with another entity. In such case, the Consultant must provide the partner’s technical qualifications and credentials and clearly indicate the proportion of the assignment to be undertaken by the partner.

6. Renumeration

The Expert will be contracted at lumpsum amount to be agreed on. This is inclusive of the fees due to the supporting partner if applying as a team.

7. Evaluation Criteria

The selection of the successful individual will be based on the individual Consultants’ selection. The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria, and point system specified below.

CriteriaMax Points (100) 
1. Qualification of Consultant
An advanced university degree in Social Sciences, Development, Planning, Business Administration, Communication, Finance or a related field.
10
2. Overall Experience of Consultant and demonstrated results
Demonstrated track record in successful resource mobilization and the establishment of sustainable partnerships and donor engagements. Understanding of WAAVP-AN mandate, context and funding landscape.
40
3. Strategic Planning Approach
Technical and Strategic strength of the proposed approach and methodology in undertaking the assignment, including the demonstrated understanding of the assignment as well as capacity to undertake it within specified/acceptable timelines.
30
4. Innovation
The extent to which the proposal offers unique and innovative solutions that address the needs and objectives of WAAVP-AN- with clear demonstration of efficiency and effectiveness in the undertaking of the assignment.
15
5. Proficiency in English and sound writing skills5
Total Points100

A technical proposal shall be rejected at this stage if it does not respond to important aspects of the Terms of Reference or if it fails to achieve the minimum technical score indicated. The minimum technical score required to pass is: 70 Points.

At financial evaluation, the most competitive financial proposal will be selected. The consultant should detail how their payments are structured and any related terms thereof.

8. Selection Process

The consultant will be selected based on an assessment of both the technical proposal and the financial offer. The Consultant should be ready to undergo a one-on-one video conferencing assessment should need be. The EOI should include as a minimum:

  • A proposal responding to the points in this ToR, with reference list of previous similar assignments.
  • A copy of Curriculum Vitae (CV) for the individual(s) conducting the consultancy.
  • A time plan in accordance with the table in point 3 above. Candidates are welcome and even encouraged to propose a different process/timeline should other models be considered more effective or complete.
  • A financial offer with password a detailed breakdown of costs, disclosing all relevant budget items for completing this assignment.

The proposal together with the requested documents above is to be sent to the following e-mail address:   Procurement@acbf-pact.org. The e-mail and all documents are to be marked with “WAAVP-AN RM Strategy” to submission@theacbf.org by 15th June 2026 at 11:00 Am Harare local time.

Tender Ref: ACBF RFP/006/26/AfWASA

1. Background

About ACBF

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) was established in 1991 to build sustainable human and institutional capacity in support of Africa’s development. As the African Union’s Specialized Agency for Capacity Development, ACBF supports capacity development in Africa through investment in capacity building, knowledge sharing, and technical assistance to countries and regional and sub-regional organizations.

About the Project

ACBF is implementing the Citywide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) Partnership in Sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with key partners, aimed at strengthening institutional capacity within the water and sanitation sector.

Under this initiative, ACBF is supporting the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) through a structured institutional strengthening program. This support is informed by a Capacity Needs Assessment (CNA) and a Customised Institutional Improvement Plan (CIIP), which identified critical gaps in governance, leadership, organizational effectiveness, and operational systems. AfWASA is currently undergoing significant institutional reforms, including strengthening governance frameworks, improving leadership effectiveness, refining operational systems, and enhancing overall organizational performance.

Given the scale and sensitivity of these reforms, there is a need for a structured and deliberate change management process to ensure alignment, stakeholder buy-in, and sustainable implementation of reforms. In this regard, ACBF seeks to engage a qualified consultant to provide organizational change management support to AfWASA.

2. Objective

The main objective of this consultancy is to support AfWASA in effectively managing and implementing institutional change processes by fostering alignment, strengthening leadership engagement, minimizing resistance, and ensuring sustainable adoption of reforms.

Specific objectives include:

  • Undertake a diagnosis of the institutional arrangements, organizational structures human resource management, readiness for change, drivers for change and constraints that could hinder delivery of results.
  • Define a transitional restructuring process which will work effectively across AfWASA’s departments with appropriate checks and balances to ensure transparency and fairness.
  • Develop and support implementation of a structured change management framework aligned to the CIIP.
  • Refine the proposed new organizational structure, including updated roles, job descriptions, and workflows.
  • Review and or establish a robust job grading framework to ensure fair, transparent, and equitable role evaluation and alignment with compensation structures.
  • Revise AfWASA’s human resources policy handbook and a forward-looking human capital strategy
  • Strengthen leadership and stakeholder alignment around reform priorities.
  • Support the institutionalization of new governance, operational, and management systems.
  • Build internal capacity to sustain change processes beyond the consultancy period.

3. Scope of Work

Whilst this is not exhaustive, the consultant will be expected to undertake the following:

  • Conduct a diagnostic assessment of AfWASA’s institutional environment, including governance structures, leadership dynamics, organizational culture, and readiness for change.
  • Develop a comprehensive Organizational Change Management Plan,
  • including a clear change narrative, priorities, sequencing, and measurable milestones.
  • Design and implement a stakeholder engagement and communication strategy to ensure transparency, ownership, and buy-in across key stakeholders.
  • Support leadership in navigating governance and institutional reforms, including clarifying roles, decision-making structures, and accountability mechanisms.
  • Identify risks associated with the change process and propose practical mitigation measures.
  • Support the implementation of priority reforms under the CIIP, ensuring alignment between strategy, structure, and operations.
  • Develop a Monitoring and Evaluation framework, including KPIs to track progress and effectiveness of the change process.
  • Provide advisory and hands-on support to AfWASA leadership throughout the transition period.
  • Facilitate targeted sessions, workshops, and engagements to strengthen internal alignment and ownership.
  • Provide coaching and knowledge transfer to ensure sustainability of change management practices within AfWASA.

4. Key Deliverables and Timelines

The consultancy is expected to be completed within 70 working days over 6 months, covering July– December 2026.

Key DeliverableCompletion TimelinesDaily RateAmount (USD)
1. Inception Report3 days
2. An Assessment Report: This report provides the results of the diagnosis undertaken to establish the most appropriate change management plan for AfWASA.7 days
3. An Organizational Change Management Plan and Update- A clear action plan should be provided detailing what needs to be done, how it will be executed, and timelines set for delivery. This should come with a communication plan for the Change Management Plan15 days
4. Monitoring and Evaluation framework with KPIs for the change management process5 days
5. A new fit for purpose organization structure for AfWASA, with clear roles, responsibilities and job descriptions for all positions on the structure2 days
6. Job Grading Framework and Compensation Structure – Framework for evaluating roles and corresponding salary recommendations.10 days
7. Revised Human Resources Policy – integrating gender mainstreaming.8 days
8. Succession Plan4 days
9. Human Capital Strategy – that includes leadership development, talent acquisition, and retention strategies.10 days
10. Implementation Support & Advisory (ongoing)Throughout
11. Capacity Building & Coaching SessionsOngoing
12. Final Presentation2 days
Total (USD)

** Please use the above table as a guide to submit your financial proposal

5. Qualifications and Experience Requirements

  • Advanced university degree in Organizational Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Strategic Human Resource Management, Industrial Psychology or related fields.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in change management and/or HR management advisory services. Experience in the non-profit sector is an advantage.
  • Proven experience working with regional or international organizations, preferably in Africa.
  • Strong expertise in governance and leadership reforms.
  • Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
  • Experience in capacity building, training, and coaching.
  • Excellent communication and report writing skills.
  • Fluency in French and English required. If the candidate is not bilingual- their proposal will not be considered.

6. Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will liaise with ACBF for oversight and guidance. The key person(s) to whom the consultant will report to and who will provide the necessary support in the implementation of the activity from AfWASA will be specified in the contract. The consultant/firm shall have reporting obligations to the person(s) on all work carried out as part of the Terms of Reference.

7. Evaluation Criteria

The selection of the successful individual will be based on the individual Consultants’ selection. The evaluation committee shall evaluate the technical Proposals based on their responsiveness to the Terms of Reference, applying the evaluation criteria, and point system specified below.

CriteriaMax Points (100) 
1.Advanced university degree in Organizational design, Strategic Human Resource Management, Industrial Psychology, Business administration, social sciences, or other related disciplines10
2. Minimum 10 years of relevant work experience in providing change management and/or HR management advisory services. Experience in the non-profit sector is an advantage20
3. Demonstrated experience with organizational change management in a consultancy setting, including real participatory methodologies evidenced by at least 3 (three) assignments carried out within the last 5 (five) years.20
4. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement job grading and salary alignment frameworks10
5. Demonstrated Experience in training and coaching with approaches that spark creativity and new thinking.15
6. Fluency in French and English is a must.10
7. Demonstrated familiarity with local labour laws and global HR best practices15
Total Points100

A technical proposal shall be rejected at this stage if it does not respond to important aspects of the Terms of Reference or if it fails to achieve the minimum technical score indicated. The minimum technical score required to pass is: 70 Points.

At financial evaluation, the most competitive financial proposal will be selected. The consultant should detail how their payments are structured and any related terms thereof.

8. Application Process

The application should include:

  • The Consultant’s CV and cover letter including three references with full contact details. If applying as a team, CVs for all the team members should be provided, and a clear detail of the roles they will play, is essential.
  • A technical proposal detailing the proposed approach and methodology for the assignment.
  • A financial proposal detailing the consultancy fee and other related costs encrypted with a password (The financial proposal should have budget breakdown as per the deliverables depicted in table 1 above). Please note that this assignment is being implemented within a restricted budget; therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit efficient, realistic, and competitive financial proposals to enhance their chances of success.
  • Three examples of similar assignments undertaken in the past 5 years.
  • The name and contact information of three referees for contact regarding relevant experience of the consultancy firm.

9. Other relevant information

  • The assignment is for a duration of seventy (70) working days during the period commencing on the July 2026 to the 30th of December 2026
  • Shortlisted candidates may be requested to deliver a presentation on the proposed methodology and workplan as part of the assessment process
  • All rights of copyright concerning the material produced by consultant for this assignment will remain the property of AfWASA.

9. Other relevant information

  • The assignment is for a duration of seventy (70) working days during the period commencing on the July 2026 to the 30th of December 2026
  • Shortlisted candidates may be requested to deliver a presentation on the proposed methodology and workplan as part of the assessment process
  • All rights of copyright concerning the material produced by consultant for this assignment will remain the property of AfWASA.

Submission Process

  • Email: submission@theacbf.org
  • Subject Line: “Consultancy Services for Organizational Change Management Support – AfWASA”
  • Deadline: 20 May 2026 at 17:00 CAT