CONSULTANCY TO DEVELOP COMMUNITY-BASED EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS FOR TTWCA 46 views0 applications

The objective of the assignment

The ranches/conservancies within TTWCA are rich in biodiversity and home to diverse wildlife populations. However, climate change, human-wildlife conflicts, poaching, and other threats pose significant challenges to the conservation of biodiversity in the region. The main objective of this consultancy is to develop a community-based early warning system tailored to the specific needs of ranches and conservancies within TTWCA. The system should enable timely detection and response to potential threats to wildlife and humans, thereby enhancing conservation efforts and promoting coexistence between communities and wildlife.

Scope of Work

The scope of work is to develop a community-based early warning system for ranches and conservancies within TTWCA. Specifically:

• To conduct a needs and risk assessment, and hazard mapping for a community-based early warning system for TTWCA.
• To design, develop, and validate a community-based early warning framework and system for TTWCA considering factors such as geographic features, prevalent threats, communication infrastructure, and community dynamics.
• Assessing Vulnerabilities: Conduct an in-depth analysis to identify and assess the vulnerabilities and risks faced by the communities and wildlife within the TTWCA region, particularly concerning natural disasters and human-wildlife conflicts.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with local communities, TTWCA members, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to gather any existing data, insights, perspectives, and local knowledge regarding existing early warning systems, community dynamics, and traditional practices for disaster management.
• Technology Assessment: Evaluate the existing technological infrastructure, including communication networks, weather monitoring systems, and information dissemination channels, to determine the feasibility of integrating modern technology into the early warning system.
• Identifying suitable tools for data collection, transmission, and analysis, with a focus on affordability, accessibility, and ease of use for local communities
• Pilot Testing: Conduct pilot testing of the developed early warning system in collaboration with selected conservancies/ranches within the TTWCA region to assess its functionality, effectiveness, and relevance. Gather feedback from stakeholders to inform any necessary adjustments or improvements.
• Integration and Sustainability: Explore opportunities for integrating the developed early warning system into existing conservation and community development initiatives within the TTWCA region. Provide recommendations for long-term sustainability, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the system.
• Developing protocols and procedures for incident reporting, response coordination, and information sharing among stakeholders.
• Conducting capacity-building sessions and training workshops for community members, conservancy staff, and other relevant stakeholders on the implementation and operation of the early warning system.
• Drafting a comprehensive implementation plan, including timelines, budget estimates, and resource requirements for deploying and sustaining (sustainability mechanism) the early warning systems.
• Providing ongoing support and monitoring during the initial implementation phase to address any challenges and ensure the effectiveness of the system.

Expected Deliverables

The successful execution of the Consultancy to Develop Community-Based Early Warning Systems for Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies Association (TTWCA) relies on the timely delivery of key deliverables. These deliverables serve as tangible outputs and actionable recommendations that aim to enhance disaster preparedness, community resilience, and wildlife conservation within the TTWCA region. Through comprehensive assessments, stakeholder engagements, and system design efforts, the following key deliverables will be expected from this consultancy:

1. Vulnerability Assessment Report:  Detailed analysis of vulnerabilities and risks faced by communities and wildlife within the TTWCA region.  Identification of key threats, including natural disasters and human-wildlife conflicts. Recommendations for priority areas of intervention based on vulnerability assessment findings.

2. Stakeholder Engagement Report:  Summary of stakeholder consultations, including insights, perspectives, and local knowledge gathered.  Documentation of community dynamics, existing early warning systems, and traditional disaster management practices.  Stakeholder engagement plan outlining strategies for continued collaboration and participation throughout the project.

3. Technology Assessment Report:  Evaluation of existing technological infrastructure relevant to early warning systems if any.  Assessment of the feasibility and suitability of integrating modern technology into the early warning system.  Recommendations for technology upgrades or enhancements to support effective implementation.

4. Capacity Building Plan and Training Materials:  A comprehensive capacity-building plan outlining training needs and objectives.  Development of training materials, modules, and resources tailored to the target audience.  Training sessions conducted for local communities, TTWCA members, and relevant stakeholders.

5. Community-Based Early Warning System Design:  Detailed design specifications for the community-based early warning system.  Selection of appropriate technologies, protocols, and communication strategies.  Documentation of system architecture, data collection, analysis, and alert dissemination mechanisms.

6. Pilot Testing Report:Summary of pilot testing activities, including methodology, results, and observations.  Evaluation of the functionality, effectiveness, and relevance of the early warning system.  Stakeholder feedback and recommendations for system improvements or adjustments

7. Integration and Sustainability Plan:  Recommendations for integrating the early warning system into existing conservation and community development initiatives.  Strategies for long-term sustainability, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the system.  Action plan for institutionalizing the early warning system within the TTWCA region and ensuring its ongoing operation and effectiveness.

Timeline

The consultant is expected to complete the work within 60 days from the commencement date.

Required Skills, Experience, and Competencies

 A minimum degree in meteorology, hydrology, disaster risk management, climate change adaptation, conservation biology, Environmental science, Geography, or a related field is required.  Community Engagement Skills: Ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and other partners, to gather insights, build partnerships, and ensure community participation in project activities.  Cross-Cultural Competence: Sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to work effectively in diverse cultural settings, particularly in rural or remote communities.  Knowledge of Relevant Policies and Regulations: Familiarity with national and international policies, frameworks, and regulations related to disaster management, wildlife conservation, and community development. A minimum of five (5) years of experience in research and/or practice related to early warning systems, disaster risk management, climate change adaptation, conflict, and other relevant fields is required preferably in the context of wildlife conservation and community engagement.  Strong facilitation, training, and capacity-building skills.  Familiarity with the socio-economic and environmental dynamics of the Taita Taveta County region or similar contexts.