About Focus Africa: Focus Africa is a dynamic development organization dedicated to driving positive change in Africa’s key industries, including Agriculture, Agribusiness, Policy, and Strategic Management. We are committed to empowering businesses and governments to navigate complex challenges and unlock growth opportunities across the continent.
About the Project: In recent years, rural communities in Zambia have faced increasing vulnerability due to the rising frequency and intensity of climate hazards, such as droughts and floods. With over 95% of farmers relying on rainfed agriculture, the impacts of these climate challenges are particularly severe. The situation is compounded for women and people with disabilities who face heightened vulnerability. Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, Focus Africa proposes a comprehensive project aimed at improving the adaptive capacity of rural communities in Zambia, with a focus on Monze and Kalomo Districts.
Objective: The main objective of this project is to enhance the adaptive capacity of rural communities in dealing with climate impacts, not only by strengthening mitigation efforts but also by promoting sustainable practices that contribute to the restoration of degraded areas.
Specific Objectives:
1. To support communities in implementing targeted mitigation activities aimed at minimizing the impact of climate change.
2. To improve the adaptive capacity of communities in rural Zambia.
3. To improve the institutional capacity of government and traditional structures in climate mitigation and adaptation.
Description of Role: The Field Officer will be based in either Mazabuka or Kalomo district and will be responsible for implementing project activities at the grassroots level. They will play a crucial role in farmer mobilizations, training and capacity building, stakeholder networking and engagement, and fostering community participation in problem identification and solution building. Key responsibilities include:
1. Farmer Mobilization: Identify and mobilize farmers in the target communities, facilitating their participation in project activities.
2. Training and Capacity Building: Develop and deliver training programs on climate-smart agriculture practices, providing farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to climate change.
3. Stakeholder Networking and Engagement: Establish and maintain effective relationships with local stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, traditional leaders, and community-based organizations, to ensure their active involvement and support for project initiatives.
4. Community Participation: Facilitate community meetings and workshops to engage community members in identifying climate-related challenges and co-developing appropriate solutions.
5. Development of Training Materials: Work with project partners to develop training materials and resources tailored to the needs of the target communities.
6. Identification of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices: Conduct research and field assessments to identify and promote climate-smart agriculture practices suitable for the targeted areas.
Qualifications:
1. Diploma in agriculture or natural resources management or related field.
2. Demonstrated experience in community engagement and facilitation.
3. Knowledge of climate-smart agriculture practices and rural development issues.
4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and with diverse stakeholders.
Duration: This is a 1-year contract position with the possibility of extension based on performance and business needs.
