Trade Policy Expert - Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP)

Purpose of Job

The Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP) for Eastern and Southern Africa Project, funded by the World Bank, aims to increase the resilience of food systems and preparedness for food security in targeted parts of Eastern and Southern Africa.

Main Functions

The main functions of the FSRP project include:

• Providing technical guidance, recommendations, and support for trade policy and related issues.
• Supporting the implementation of project activities and monitoring, including timely reporting.
• Assisting the FSRP Project Coordinator in daily management.
• Promoting project activities, including preparing leaflets, guidelines, and fact sheets.

Specific Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting a comprehensive analysis of trade policies and regulations affecting food systems in Africa.
• Providing technical support to the African Union and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) for regional trade integration.
• Supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), including developing national strategies.
• Identifying and addressing trade facilitation challenges affecting food systems.
• Supporting African countries to improve market access for food products.
• Engaging with the private sector to promote trade and investment.
• Providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to enhance participation in trade.
• Supporting the development of national strategies for implementing the AfCFTA.
• Providing technical support for implementing the AfCFTA's trade in goods provisions.
• Supporting the implementation of the AfCFTA's sanitary and phytosanitary measures.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

Candidates should have:

• A Master’s degree in trade or related fields with at least 7 years of relevant experience, including 3 years at a supervisory level.
• OR a Bachelor’s degree in trade or related fields with at least 10 years of relevant experience, including 3 years at a supervisory level.
• Experience in large and complex projects.
• Experience in conducting trade policy dialogue.

Required Skills

Essential skills include:

• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Sound planning and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in one of the AU working languages; fluency in another AU language is an added advantage.