Nigeria: Call for Application: Conflict Scan - Contributing to the Mitigation of Conflict over Natural Resources between Farmer and Herder Communities in Adamawa and Taraba States, Nigeria (COMITAS) Project, Yola, Nigeria

Apr 3, 2023 | Search for Common Ground
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Search for Common Ground (Search) is seeking a consultant to conduct a conflict scan in Adamawa and Taraba states, Nigeria for the second phase of the Contributing to the mitigation of conflict over natural resources between farmer and herder communities (COMITAS) Project. The scan will help Search understand the conflict dynamics in Taraba and Adamawa states. Search also expects the scan to analyze the impact of the conflict along gender dimensions, and the responses of Traditional and Government Authorities including analyzing the social behavioral change of various stakeholders around natural resource management in the project wards of Adamawa and Taraba states. Findings and recommendations from the conflict scan will inform project implementation and contribute to lessons learned for our programming that result in improved relationships and synergy between Farmer and Herder Communities in Adamawa and Taraba States. The Consultant is expected to have experience in similar conflict scans and knowledge of context and conflict in North-East Nigeria is preferred

Context

Search for Common Ground

Search is an international conflict transformation NGO that aims to transform the way individuals, groups, governments, and companies deal with conflict, away from adversarial approaches and towards collaborative solutions. Headquartered in Washington DC, USA, and Brussels, Belgium, with 52 field offices in over 30 countries, Search designs and implements multifaceted, culturally appropriate, and conflict-sensitive programs using a diverse range of tools, including media and training, to promote dialogue, increase knowledge and determine a positive shift in behaviors.

Farmer and herder clashes have been occurring in Northern Nigeria and have been made worse by banditry and violent extremism. The banditry and violent extremism have spread to many parts of Nigeria including the Northeast states of Adamawa and Taraba which have witnessed an increase in cattle rustling, kidnapping, and robberies. It has resulted in the loss of life, loss of property, and internal displacement. In addition, it has led to the loss of livelihoods and disruption of economic activities such as farming and livestock keeping which has led to increasing food insecurity.

To contribute to the mitigation of conflict over natural resources, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Search for Common Ground, and Mercy Corps have designed a comprehensive and integrated approach that builds on the comparative strengths of each organization. IOM will build on its experience in the data collection and transhumance tracking tool (TTT) in Northeast Nigeria that is aimed at strengthening the early warning and early response (EWER) systems. IOM will also build on policy engagement work with the government of Nigeria at all levels focusing on the farmer-herder crisis, Search will build on its extensive work on EWER, trust building through dialogue, and promoting positive perceptions through reliable information and peace messaging in Nigeria. Mercy Corps will capitalize on its trusted relationships with local stakeholders across Nigeria's Middle Belt and Northeast regions to continue to empower communities to prevent and respond to violence by strengthening collaboration on natural resource management.

Search is recruiting for a consultant/team of consultant(s) to conduct a conflict scan in Taraba and Adamawa States

The Project

Search will be implementing an 18-month project with an overall goal to contribute to the mitigation of conflict over natural resources between farmer and herder communities in the Adamawa and Taraba states of Nigeria.

The overall goal is supported by four specific objectives and is integrated across consortium partners to play to the strengths and experience of partners, encourage adaptability of the project and contribute to elevated impact. The objectives are highlighted below: 

Specific Objective 1: Strengthened traditional conflict resolution mechanisms

Specific Objective 2: Improved trust in authorities

Specific Objective 3: Enhanced collaboration on natural resource management

Specific Objective 4: Improved intra and inter-communal perceptions

Search working in consortium with Mercy Corps and IOM will be combining an iterative series of training, Early warning tracking and reporting, media activities, and engagement with policymakers and relevant stakeholders to meet the project goal and objectives. Our theory of change is premised on: IF traditional conflict resolution is strengthened, trust in authorities is improved, collaboration on natural resource management is enhanced, and intra and inter-communal perceptions are improved, then the mitigation of conflict over natural resources is improved and conditions for social cohesion are created BECAUSE early warning and response mechanisms are effective, authorities accountable, management of natural resources transparent and inclusive, and media outlets deconstruct violent narratives, ASSUMING that the political landscape remains conducive to dialogue and cooperation between all stakeholders. Climate change, gender equality, and the upcoming elections will be key factors to consider.

The project is being implemented in the following locations: 

Adamawa State: Demsa (Bille, Borrong, Kpasham & Dong), Girei(Gereng, Tambo), Lamurde (Gyawana, Waduku), Numan (Kodompti, Gamadiyo), Mayo Belwa (Gengle, Ndikong Gorobi), Guyuk (Banjiram, Dumna) & Shelleng (Shelleng, Libbo)

Taraba State: Zing (Monkin A, Monkin B) & Lau (Lau A and Abbare B)

 

Goal and Objectives of Study

As the project is entering the implementation phase, Search requires a consultant who will conduct a conflict scan. The analysis will enable Search to understand Farmer and Herder's related issues in both states, identify the key causal factors and actors involved in this type of conflict and identify potential risks to project implementation in these states.

The objective of the conflict scan is as follows: Identify the types of conflicts related to natural resources that currently exist in the communities between farmers and herders, and other types of related conflicts

Assess the existing causal factors of conflict amongst farmers and herders relating to the access and use of natural resources

To understand the intra and inter-communal social cohesion dynamics amongst the conflicting parties and the level of trust expressed in authorities (Local and security actors)

Explore the existing early warning system and conflict resolution mechanisms by communities, civil society, government authorities and other relevant stakeholders

Recommendations to inform program implementation.

Key questions of the study

Identify the types of conflicts related to natural resources that currently exist in the communities between farmers and herders, and other types of related conflicts

What are the recent(past year) conflicts related to natural resources in Adamawa and Taraba states

Who are the key actors involved who contribute negatively or positively to natural resource management conflicts

What are the challenges/gaps faced at the community and state levels in addressing these types of conflicts?

Assess the existing causal factors of conflict amongst farmers and herders relating to the access and use of natural resources

  •  What are the other factors that exacerbate this type of conflict
  •  What are the barriers faced by farmers and herders at the community level regarding the use of natural resources
  •  What are the potential risks of actors' engagements at the community and state levels

To understand the intra and inter communal social cohesion dynamics amongst the conflicting parties and the level of trust expressed in authorities (Local and security actors)

  •  What are the existing social cohesion opportunities in the target locations that can support quality program implementation?
  •  What intra-activities (within farmer communities, within herder communities) can be explored to promote social cohesion between farmers and herders
  •  What inter-activities (between farmer and herder) can be explored to promote social cohesion between farmers and herders' trust

Explore the existing early warning system and conflict resolution mechanisms by communities, civil society, government authorities and other relevant stakeholders

  •  Who has access to these structures, and who is represented in these structures? What groups are currently excluded from these structures? How can these structures become more inclusive/just
  •  What roles can actors these systems improve on to address these conflicts
  •  What challenges do these actors face at the community and state levels in addressing these types of conflicts?

Recommendations

  •  What recommendations from the scan can be used to inform program implementation.

Geographic Locations

  •  This scan will be conducted in Adamawa and Taraba states. Other stakeholders of interest relevant to this study will be discussed upon engagement. The consultant can however suggest relevant stakeholders that can be targeted for this study.

 

Methodology and Data Collection Tools

  •  The consultant in submitting the proposal should outline the research approach and methodology for data collection to be used, including the justification for these methods related to the research objectives. The applications submitted must clearly explain why the proposed methodology is the most appropriate to achieve the study objectives; they must also clarify the different tools that will be used and how each of these tools contributes to meeting the established lines of inquiry.
  •  The consultant will be responsible for finalizing the literature review, designing the final methodology, developing tools, training enumerators, data analysis, and drafting of the report and actionable recommendations. Proposals should include clarity on data triangulation and key methodologies for data collection. The proposal will also include sampling strategies associated with the proposed methods, methodologies for data analysis outlined with justifications and reasoning for any key methods mentioned, Do No Harm strategies, and any proposed strategies for sharing the findings of the study.
  •  The final methodology and tools will be approved by Search's Institutional Learning Team (ILT) and Nigeria's DMEL team before data collection begins.

Logistical Support

  •  The consultant(s) will be responsible for organizing their own logistics for data collection (vehicles, fuel, and drivers), and this must be budgeted into the study.
  •  In addition, Search will share the following elements with the external consultant: background materials including the project proposal and log frame, M&E plan, background materials including the project proposal and log frame, conflict analysis, and relevant reports on the context, etc.

Timeline and Key Deliverables

  •  This study will take place from April 2023 - June, 2023 with the final deliverables due by 30th June 2023 at the latest.
  •  Final deadlines will be agreed upon by Search and the consultant upon finalization of the contract

Deliverables

Search expects the following deliverables from the external consultant(s) as they correspond to the timeline and budget

  •  An inception report detailing the methodology, data collection tools and timeline;
  •  Any necessary training of data collectors or set-up of systems for data collection;
  •  Supervision and participation in data collection;
  •  Oversight of data coding and analysis;
  •  Debrief after data collection is completed (presentation of first trends and preliminary findings as well as discussion of report structure)
  •  All original data submitted to Search;
  •  A draft report in the English language for review by Search staff and partners;
  •  A final report in English (20 pages max in length, excluding appendices) consistent with Search branding and standards for evaluation. The report:
  •  Uses the Search's standard template unless otherwise agreed in the contract
  •  Fully explains the objectives and research questions of the study, limitations, and methods chosen for analysis,
  •  Findings are structured around the main objectives of the study and are presented in relation to the intended target groups. The findings should speak to the link between the project, its Theory of Change, and its contribution to its strategy.
  •  Recommendations should have a clear audience and be specific, accessible, and actionable.
  •  Appendices should include detailed research instruments, a list of interviewees, terms of references, and evaluator(s) brief biography
  •  2-page summary of key findings
  •  Restitution session incl. PPT

Budget

  •  A detailed budget should be provided, including daily rates for personnel, and costs related to data collection (per total number of people sampled, sites for collection, etc.), analysis, and production of deliverables.
  •  This budget should include all planned costs for the study as no additional costs will be borne by Search.

Requirements of consultant

  •  Proficiency in English and local languages (written and spoken);
  •  More than 7 years of experience in conducting conflict scans, project evaluations, and mapping, including collecting data in interviews, surveys, and focus groups;
  •  Experience in conflict analysis and working with religious, human rights activists, and civil society sectors;
  •  Experience working with international organizations;
  •  Experience conducting quantitative surveys and analysis;
  •  Evaluation methods and data collection skills;
  •  Strong analytical and report writing skills
  •  Familiarity and experience with contextual challenges in the geographic location(s) where the study will take place.

In addition, the consultant is required to respect the following Ethical Principles:

  •  Comprehensive and systematic inquiry: The consultant should make the most of the existing information and the full range of stakeholders available during the review. The consultant should conduct systematic, data-based inquiries. He or she should communicate his or her methods and approaches accurately and in sufficient detail to allow others to understand, interpret and critique his or her work. He or she should make clear the limitations of the review and its results.
  •  Competence: The consultant should possess the abilities and skills and experience appropriate to undertake the tasks proposed and should practice within the limits of his or her professional training and competence.
  •  Honesty and integrity: The consultant should be transparent with the contractor/constituent about any conflict of interest, any change made in the negotiated project plan and the reasons why those changes were made, and any risk that certain procedures or activities produce misleading review information.
  •  Respect for people: The consultant respects the security, dignity, and self-worth of respondents, and program participants. The consultant has the responsibility to be sensitive to and respect differences amongst participants in culture, religion, gender, disability, age, and ethnicity.
  •  In addition, the consultant will respect Search's evaluations standards, to be found in Search's evaluation guidelines:
  •  http://www.sfcg.org/programmes/ilt/dme_guidelines.html

Selection Criteria

Consultant proposals will be selected for:

  •  Relevance of proposed methodology to the goal, objectives, and research questions for the project.
  •  Quality of proposed methods, conflict sensitivity approaches, and quality control measures.
  •  Qualifications of the candidate(s).
  •  The proposed budget in relation to the proposed methodology, deliverables, and team.
  •  Timeline for proposed activities.

To apply, interested candidates (individuals or teams) are requested to submit the following two documents:

1. Curriculum vitae and examples of previous similar studies conducted

2. A technical proposal proposing a methodology for the evaluation together with a financial proposal for the completion of the aforementioned deliverables and a short cover letter.

Note : Only two documents can be submitted, so the technical and financial proposals must be combined, along with the short cover letter.

Applications must be submitted on or before 21st April 2023.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis

As job descriptions cannot be exhaustive, the position holder may be required to undertake other duties that are broadly in line with the above key responsibilities.

Only applicants invited for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please. Please see the website www.sfcg.org for full details of Search work. All Search Employees must adhere to the values: Collaboration- Audacity - Tenacity - Empathy - Results. In accordance with these values, Search enforces compliance with the Code of Conduct and related policies on Anti Workplace Harassment, Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Conflict of Interest, and Anti-fraud. Search is committed to safeguarding the interests, rights, and well-being of children, youth, and vulnerable adults with whom it is in contact and to conducting its programs and operations in a manner that is safe for children, youth, and vulnerable adults. Search for Common Ground does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. View Search’s code of conduct here and its privacy policy here .

Les descriptifs de pouvant ne pouvant être exhaustifs, le titulaire du poste pourra être amené à entreprendre d'autres tâches qui correspondent globalement aux responsabilités clés ci-dessus.

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Seuls les candidats invités à un entretien seront contactés. Pas d'appels téléphoniques s'il vous plaît. Veuillez consulter notre site Web www.sfcg.org pour tous les détails de notre mission.

Tous les employés de Search doivent adhérer aux valeurs de Search : Collaboration- Audace - Ténacité - Empathie - Résultats. Conformément à ces valeurs, Search fait respecter le code de conduite et les politiques connexes sur la lutte contre le harcèlement au travail, la protection contre l'exploitation et les abus, la protection des enfants, les conflits d'intérêts et la lutte contre la fraude. Search s'engage à préserver les intérêts, les droits et le bien-être des enfants, des jeunes et des adultes vulnérables avec lesquels elle est en contact et à mener ses programmes et ses opérations d'une manière qui soit sûre pour les enfants, les jeunes et les adultes vulnérables.

Search for Common Ground ne fait pas et ne doit pas faire de discrimination fondée sur la race, la couleur, la religion (croyance), le sexe, l'expression de genre, l'âge, l'origine nationale (ascendance), le handicap, l'état matrimonial, l'orientation sexuelle ou le statut militaire, dans aucune de ses activités ou opérations.

Consultez notre code de conduite ici et notre politique de confidentialité ici.

Dado que la descripción de funciones no puede ser exhaustiva, el titular del puesto puede tener que realizar otras tareas que coinciden en líneas generales con las responsabilidades clave mencionadas.

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Sólo se contactará con los candidatos invitados a una entrevista. Se agradece no recibir llamadas telefónicas. Consulte nuestro sitio web www.sfcg.org para conocer todos los detalles de nuestro trabajo. Todos los empleados de Search deben adherirse a los valores de la organización: Colaboración - Audacia - Tenacidad - Empatía - Resultados. De acuerdo con estos valores, Search hace cumplir el Código de Conducta y las políticas relacionadas con luchar contra el acoso en el lugar de trabajo, la protección contra la explotación y el abuso, la protección de la infancia, los conflictos de intereses y la lucha contra el fraude. Search se compromete a salvaguardar los intereses, derechos y bienestar de los niños, jóvenes y adultos vulnerables con los que está en contacto y a llevar a cabo sus programas y operaciones de una manera que sea segura para los niños, jóvenes y adultos vulnerables. Search for Common Ground no discrimina ni discriminará por motivos de raza, color, religión (credo), género, expresión de género, edad, origen nacional (ascendencia), discapacidad, estado civil, orientación sexual o condición militar, en ninguna de sus actividades u operaciones. Consulte nuestro código de conducta aquí y nuestra política de privacidad aquí .