Agriculture Technology Hubs Feasibility Analysis Specialist

Organizational Setting

Through FAO support, Eswatini has reviewed its Agricultural Investment plan (E-NAIP Process) as another initiative to support Government to achieve the goals of the CASP and its Agricultural Sector strategic plan. It is envisaged that the E-NAIP will feed from the Agrinvest process, and its associated network of institutions aimed at achieving the vision for the agricultural and natural resources sector and food security in the country within the auspices of the Africa Union Development Agency national Investment Planning processes. Under Eswatini’s Agrinvest/HiHi Initiative, a number of achievements have been attained including: i) the Agricultural Development Fund and its regulation which has now been approved by Parliament and is now being initiated to deploy a number financial instruments in the agricultural sector, ii) 12 draft sector development plans (SDPA) prepared, and iii) support to formation of Eswatini Horticultural Association and investment platforms. However, some commodities remain in terms of having SDPAs and commodity associations developed.

During the FAO Director General’s visit to Eswatini, some priority areas for investment were identified, which include Smallholder inclusive Agro-Industrial Park/Agritech Hubs for smallholder farming communities, small livestock, fruits, vegetables value chain development as well as the potential for application of digital extension tools especially for youth. The proposed TCP consolidates these needs into one coherent intervention, which facilitates increased participation of smallholder farmers in the formal agriculture and food sector (production, aggregation, processing, and distribution) and in associated industries (e.g., logistics, inputs, testing services) in Eswatini. This is achieved through three main actions namely: • Operationalising smallholder inclusive Agro-Industrial, Incubation and Technology Innovation Hubs/ Parks for the honey, small livestock, fruit and vegies value chains. • Creating an environment which facilitates private sector investment including farmer linkages to export markets within smallholder inclusive Agro-Industrial, Incubation and Technology Innovation Hubs/ Parks; and • Supporting targeted smallholder farmers and rural communities with necessary input packs for apiary, small livestock, vegetables and fruits production, and enable them to participate in Agro-Industrial, Incubation and Technology Innovation Hubs/ Parks. The Initial Hub will be set up at the University of Eswatini while the remaining will be set up at sites to be identified through the ongoing scoping exercise.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Eswatini, (FAOR), guidance of the Assistant FAOR Program and the technical guidance of the National Programme Coordinator. The Specialist will work in close collaboration with FAO officers that will form a project management team task force consisting of the Lead Technical Officer (FAO Sub Regional Office for Southern Africa).

Technical Focus

The incumbent will be responsible to conduct feasibility assessments for the establishment of Agro-Industrial Park/Agric Techno Hubs for increased smallholder farmers` incomes in Eswatini.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Conducts a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific requirements and challenges in establishing the Agric Techno Hubs. This includes understanding local context, assessing existing infrastructure, identifying potential stakeholders, and determining the target audience at the selected sites. • Carry out comprehensive research on the agriculture technology sector, including emerging trend, current market conditions, and potential areas for growth. Analyse the specific needs and demands of the local agricultural community, potential stakeholders, target audience. Examine successful agriculture technology hubs at other universities or similar institutions for benchmarking purposes. • Based on needs assessment and research and analysis, develop a strategic plan outlining the goals, objectives and key activities required for the successful establishment of the Agric Techno Hubs. This may include infrastructure set-up, resource allocation, funding mechanisms, partnerships, and stakeholders’ engagement strategies. • Evaluates the existing technical infrastructure and resources available at the selected sites that could support the establishment of the Agric techno hubs. Assess the compatibility and adequacy of available facilities, such as laboratories, research centres, and computing resources, for accommodating the Agric techno hub’s activities. Identify any required upgrades or additional infrastructure necessary. • Conducts a thorough assessment of the Human, financial, and technological resources required to establish and maintain the Agric techno hubs. This includes identifying potential sources of funding, partnerships and collaboration with other academic departments or institutions. • Provides guidance on the selection, procurement, and integration of the appropriate technologies, remote sensing, data analytic tool, and other solutions that align with the goals and requirements of the Agric techno hubs. • Identify and engages with relevant stakeholders, including faculty members, researchers, students, local farmers, industry experts, and government agencies. Conduct interviews, focus groups, and surveys to gather their inputs, expectations, and potential contributions to the Agric techno hubs. Develop strategies for fostering collaborations and generating support from stakeholders. • Develops a comprehensive business and operation model for the agriculture technology hubs including detailed organizational structure, governance framework, and operational processes. Assess the potential revenue streams, such as research grants, industry partnerships, training programs, or commercialization of technology, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Agric techno hubs. • Identifies and assess potential risks and challenges associated with establishing the Agric techno hubs, such as regulatory hurdles, competition, financial constraints, or limited industry engagement. Provide recommendations on mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address these risks. • Based on the findings of the feasibility analysis, provide clear and actionable recommendations regarding the establishment of the Agric techno hubs. Prepare a concise comprehensive report documenting the methodology, research, analysis, and conclusions drawn from the study. • Presents the findings and recommendations to the FAO, Ministry of Agriculture, and other relevant stakeholders. Prepare concise, visual presentation that effectively communicate the benefits, potential impact, and feasibility of each of the the Agric techno hubs.

Minimum Requirements

• University Degree in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, or Agricultural technology or closely related field. • At least 5 (Five) or more years of experience in relevant fields. • Working knowledge (Level C) of English and limited knowledge (Level B) of one of the other FAO languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish). For PSA, working knowledge of English.

Minimum Requirements

• University Degree in Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, or Agricultural technology or closely related field. • At least 5 (Five) or more years of experience in relevant fields. • Working knowledge (Level C) of English and limited knowledge (Level B) of one of the other FAO languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish). For PSA, working knowledge of English.

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Specialized training in feasibility analysis, Project Management, agricultural technology, or related areas • Practical experience in the Agricultural or Agribusiness sector • Proficiency in agricultural technology, including crop management systems, precision farming techniques, data analytics, and other emerging technologies. • Strong analytical skills to gather, interpret, and analyze data relevant to the feasibility analysis.