Internal Consultancy: Consultant, Political Analysis, Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) at UNICEF

Scope of Work 

• Goal and objective: Under the supervision of the ESARO Security Section, the consultant will provide a detailed briefing paper (about 10 pages) on political dynamics in South Sudan at the level of decision making. The main goal of the paper is to better understand President Kiir’s strategy and inner circle, as well as those spoilers and help better inform ESARO Security Analysis and interactions in South Sudan.  
• Provide details/reference to AWP areas covered: This consultancy will strongly complement the work and analysis being understand at the Regional Security Section.  

Activities and Tasks:  

• Provide a detailed briefing paper (10-15 pages) on political dynamics in South Sudan. The main goal of the paper is to better understand President Kiir’s inner circle and influential allies and spoilers.
• The briefing paper should focus on mapping actors/key members within the government and opposition, at both national and state levels, and detailing their positions/links/possible tensions with President Kiir and their level of influence on decision making. The paper should also focus on highlight possible spoilers, as well as regional linkages and dynamics with influence on Kiir’s strategy and inner cycles. The paper will need to include a visual actor mapping.  

 Work relationships: The consultant will undertake the research based on his/her own knowledge and networks in country.  

Outputs/Deliverables: 

• By end of February 2025, the consultant should deliver the research paper, including a details actor mapping visual, contributing to better informed analysis and forecasting.  
• By end of March 2024, the consultant should be available to provide a briefing to UNICEF Senior Leadership and select colleagues on the subject matter.  
• By mid February, the consultant will outline the status of his research and outline of the research paper, in a discussion with the DRSA.  
• The DRSA will ensure the timeliness, goals, quality of work through rtouch-base conversations or emails.  

Desired competencies, technical background and experience 

• Education: PhD degree in International Relations, Political Science, Anthropology, Social Sciences or related degrees, combined with minimum 5 years of experience; or Master Degree in International Relations, Political Science, Anthropology, Social Sciences or related degrees, combined with minimum 8 years of professional experience.  
• Expertise and previous published and peer reviewed work on political and security dynamics in South Sudan, Sudan and the region. Provision of sample material and examples of two recent publishes pieces required.