Field Project Coordinator - Forestry at Aga Khan Foundation

Overall Objective

This position is responsible for the field implementation of Microforests and Agroforestry initiatives at community level. This dynamic position encompasses meticulous site assessments, strategic planning, and proactive community engagement for Microforest and Agroforestry projects. Anchored in Nairobi, Kirinyaga, and the Coastal regions under the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), this role requires exceptional attention to detail, superior organizational skills, and a passion for fostering community growth and environmental stewardship. The role goes beyond planting trees to crafting sustainable havens and empowering communities in the transformative journey towards sustainable ecosystems. In this role, you will be the catalyst, propelling Microforest initiatives towards unprecedented success. Your dedication will not just nurture trees but will sow the seeds of sustainable futures for communities and ecosystems alike. Let your passion for the environment shape a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. The coordinator is the linchpin, ensuring seamless implementation, driving growth, and guaranteeing the long-term sustainability of Microforest initiatives. You will report directly to the Regional Climate Resilience Advisor, East Africa, adding expertise to your impactful work. 

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Planning: Developing field implementation plans in collaboration with the technical advisors.

Mapping of sites:

• Identification of Microforest establishment sites in collaboration with Key Stakeholders (schools, corporates, local government, farmers, etc)
• Assessment of the site conditions for the establishment of a Microforest.
• Secure approvals from identified sites, ensuring their commitment to nurturing the Microforests and Agroforestry, and establish planting dates.

Logistics and Procurement

• Oversee seamless procurement and timely delivery of all essential inputs, following the required procurement procedures.
• Coordinate land preparation, ensuring sites are primed for planting, fostering robust growth.
• Training site owners on the maintenance and care of the Microforests and Agroforestry trees.
• Organise and facilitate learning visits to Microforest and Agroforestry sites for key stakeholders.

Routine Monitoring and Community Engagement

• Implement rigorous monitoring protocols across all Microforest sites, ensuring a staggering 85% survival rate.
• Champion community education initiatives, empowering individuals to grasp the intrinsic value of Microforests and fostering a deep sense of responsibility towards their care and cultivation.
• Develop a comprehensive mapping system, cataloging all Microforest sites where seedlings have been planted.

Progress Narrative Reporting

• Generate detailed progress reports encompassing expenses, Microforests cultivated, trees grown, next steps, and challenges faced.
• Prepare and present, weekly, monthly, and quarterly progress reports to the immediate supervisor and other key stakeholders.

The requirements

Qualifications and Competencies

• At least a bachelor’s degree in forestry, agroforestry, natural resource management, or environmental science, underscoring a deep theoretical understanding of ecological systems.
• A minimum of 2 years technical experience in community-based approaches and familiarity with community-based conservation focus on trees cultivation, and related initiatives.
• Demonstrate attention to detail, seamless multitasking, and efficient task management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, essential for engaging communities effectively and fostering collaboration with other program staff.
• Demonstrate adaptability, environmental guardianship, and dedication to realizing ambitious Microforest establishment targets.
• Ability to develop comprehensive work plans and concise activity narrative reports.
• Ability to facilitate relevant training / events / workshops.
• Ability to work independently in a high-pressure environment and ability to multitask.
• Excellent Computer, English, and Swahili communication skills, both oral and written
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.