Consultancy- Assessing Community Engagement and Access to Financing under the FLLOCA Program at Natural Justice

The main objectives of the study are:

• Assess Community Engagement: Evaluate the extent to which FLLoCA has enabled community participation in climate governance, particularly among marginalized groups.
• Identify Best Practices: Document effective approaches for community-level climate financing that enhances climate action.
• Analyze Barriers to Access: Identify key obstacles communities face in accessing FLLoCA funds and utilizing them effectively.
• Provide Actionable Recommendations: Develop concrete recommendations to strengthen the effectiveness, accessibility, and sustainability of climate financing initiatives in Kenya.

Scope of Work

The consultant will undertake the following tasks:

• Comparative Analysis: Conduct a desk review of existing climate financing initiatives, particularly in Africa, to establish benchmarks for FLLoCA’s performance.
• Primary Data Collection: Engage communities, CSOs, government officials, and other stakeholders through qualitative and quantitative research methods (e.g., interviews, focus groups, and surveys).
• Case Study Analysis: Select three counties where Natural Justice operates and where FLLoCA implementation has been prominent to provide in-depth insights.
• Validation and Synthesis: Facilitate stakeholder validation sessions to discuss findings and refine recommendations.
• Final Report and Dissemination: Develop a comprehensive report with findings, lessons learned, and recommendations for improving climate financing mechanisms in Kenya.

Deliverables

• Inception Report: Outlining methodology, approach, and study timeline. This will include draft data collection tools for approval.
• Raw and Processed Data: From qualitative and quantitative data collection.
• Draft Report: Presenting preliminary findings from the literature review, primary data, and case study analysis.
• Validation Report: Documenting stakeholder feedback and necessary refinements.
• Final Report: A comprehensive, well-structured report presenting key findings, insights, and policy recommendations to strengthen climate financing mechanisms. Additionally, a visually engaging summary infographic will distil the study's key takeaways for easy and rapid dissemination.

 Consultant Qualifications

The ideal consultant should have:

• Education: A Master’s or Ph.D. in Environmental Studies, Climate Science, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related field.
• Specialization in Climate Change & Governance: Demonstrated expertise in climate policy, adaptation, mitigation, and community-led climate action.
• Proven Research Experience: Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills, including experience in survey design, stakeholder engagement, and participatory data collection.
• Knowledge of Climate Finance: Understanding of global and local climate finance mechanisms, including World Bank-funded initiatives.
• Strong Analytical & Writing Skills: Ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English and Swahili is required.