Extension Officer – Livestock Impuls Africa

ABOUT IMPULS AFRICA

Impuls Africa is a Zambian-registered company that specializes in delivering agricultural consultancy and extension services in the SADC region. Owned by a cooperative of over 100 farmers and a seasoned agri-entrepreneur in Zambia, the Impuls team brings more than 75 years of combined expertise in agriculture and livestock services. Impuls has a strong track record of successfully developing and implementing large-scale projects in agriculture, livestock, agroforestry, apiculture, and horticulture value chains. These projects have been funded by leading development partners such as UKAID, USAID, UNDP, the EU, SIDA, Irish Aid, and the Czech Development Agency. We specialize in providing services to both donors and the private sector, offering everything from one-off consulting assignments to long-term project implementation and management. Our primary focus is on agricultural consulting, in which we excel at delivering a diverse range of short- and long-term assignments.

Position Title: Extension Officer – Livestock (1)

Location: Solwezi, North Western.

Reporting to: General Manager and Project Manager

Job Summary

The Livestock Extension Officer will support the implementation of projects aimed at improving livestock productivity, animal health, and market access for smallholder farmers. This position plays a critical role in enhancing livestock production practices, promoting sustainable management, and ensuring the well-being of livestock-keeping communities.

Scope of Work

The Livestock Extension Officer will undertake the following tasks:

Training and Capacity Building

• Conduct training sessions for farmers on improved livestock management practices, nutrition, breeding, and animal health.
• Organize workshops, field demonstrations, and practical sessions on disease prevention, vaccination, and treatment protocols.
• Build farmers’ capacity on sustainable grazing and feed management techniques.

Extension Services

• Provide on-site and remote technical extension services to farmers on livestock production and veterinary care.
• Promote the adoption of innovative and climate-smart livestock practices to enhance productivity and resilience.
• Conduct regular farm visits to monitor livestock health, production performance, and the implementation of good practices.

Livestock Health Management

• Support disease surveillance activities, and work with veterinary authorities to prevent and control livestock diseases.
• Assist in developing and implementing vaccination campaigns and disease control programs.

Market Access and Value Chain Development

• Identify market opportunities and link livestock farmers to markets, buyers, and value chain actors.
• Support the improvement of product quality, such as meat, dairy, and other animal products, to meet market standards.
• Provide advisory services on value addition and market-oriented production.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Conduct assessments of livestock farmers’ needs and performance through baseline surveys and data collection.
• Track progress of extension activities and prepare regular reports detailing project outcomes, challenges, and recommendations.
• Contribute to the development of case studies, success stories, and lessons learned.

Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, Livestock Production, or related field.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience working in livestock extension services, animal health, or rural development.
• Demonstrated knowledge of livestock value chains, animal nutrition, breeding, and disease control.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and capacity-building skills, with experience working with smallholder farmers.
• Familiarity with climate-smart livestock practices and sustainable agriculture principles.
• Ability to work in rural areas and travel frequently to project sites.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong facilitation, communication, and training skills.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to address challenges faced by farmers.
• Proficiency in using modern agricultural tools and technologies, including digital platforms for extension services.
• Willingness to travel within the region.
• Able to ride a motor bike
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in rural environments.
• Proficiency in local language of area and English.