Agricultural Extension and Agri-Business Project Officer at DanChurchAid (DCA)

DCA is seeking to recruit an experienced and energetic Kenyan National for the following position: Agricultural Extension and Agri-Business Project Officer – AgriTech Solutions Project; The position is based in Nakuru, with frequent field travel to Nyandarua, Siaya and Busia Counties and reports to the Project Manager – AgriTech Solutions Project.

The main responsibilities of the Programme Officer (PO) are:

• Manage all the DCA direct implemented agricultural extension and agri-business development activities of the project. This includes the DCA self-implemented components in Nakuru and Nyandarua counties and partner led actions in Busia and Siaya County
• Facilitate DCA initiated innovation initiatives at the field level in close consultations with the Project Manager (PM), Head of Programme (HoP) and DCA consortium partners. These will include private sector & universities partners and related innovation incubation and prototyping to enhance effective adoption of agricultural advisories and sustainable market access for small holder farmers.
• Support the day to day implementation of DCA and Partner staff project interventions at the field level. This entails development and execution of detailed implementation plans, having a teaching and facilitative role, staff supervision as well as monitoring and evaluation of the project.
• Network and coordinate with other field operational I/NGOs, UN Agencies and County Government and explore/advise on possible areas of collaboration/partnerships to enhance program synergy.
• Facilitate, support and initiate digitised baseline, monitoring and evaluation data collection and other assessments and generate relevant reports as well as support initiation of relevant concept paper development at the field level as part of DCA fundraising efforts.
• Facilitate/support collaboration and cross learning among DCA projects & partners through information sharing, exposure visits and active partner participation in DCA platforms/forums.
• Facilitate logistical arrangements for DCA staff, consultant field visits and donor visits in consultation with the Project Manager.
• Perform any other responsibilities as determined and assigned by the Project Manager from time to time.

Professional Qualifications:

• University level education in agriculture, horticulture or any other relevant academic qualification.
• Technical skills and hands on experience in agricultural extension, climate smart agriculture, agribusiness development programming ((preferably working with private sector actors).
• Knowledge of the rights-based approach & Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) is an added advantage.
• Good interpersonal skills and a proven team player. Self-driven and results orientated in challenging rural working environments.
• Experience in training at field/community level and excellent reporting skills. Excellence in English, oral and written.