| Title | : | Agroforestry Consultant |
| Location | : | Lao PDR |
| Duration | : | Initial duration of four (4) months, with the possibility of extension based on performance |
| Start Date | : | April 2025 (as early as possible) |
I. Background
The Secretariat of the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (the “Secretariat”) is working in partnership with the Department of Forestry (DoF) of Lao PDR to develop the Acorn Project. The initiative focuses on creating holistic agroforestry designs that support biodiversity conservation, strengthen food security, and maximize carbon sequestration. The project will be implemented in selected districts of Salavan, Champasak, Vientiane, and Luang Prabang Provinces, but is not limited to these provinces, as additional locations may be identified during the course of implementation.
II. Objectives of the Consultancy
- To evaluate environmental and socio-economic conditions to identify and prioritize suitable locations for Acorn project implementation.
- To develop agroforestry models aligned with Acorn standards, addressing system gaps and ensuring ecological and food system resilience.
- To prepare practical and inclusive guidelines for species selection based on farmers’ requirements, assisting land preparation, planting methods development site monitoring and effective engagement with farming communities.
- The overarching goal is to ensure that local farmers are effectively supported and organized, so they can actively participate in and benefit from the Acorn project, contributing to its long-term success.
III. Scope of Work and Methodologies
The Agroforestry Expert/Consultant shall perform the following activities in close coordination with the Secretariat to fulfill the objectives of the assignment. These tasks will be undertaken with the involvement of relevant officers and staff of the Secretariat, as follows:
| Duties and Deliverables |
| Task 1 – Collect and organize data on tree and crop species suitable for agroforestry in target areas, based on environmental and socio–economic conditions and farmers’ needs. Deliverables – Well-defined list of recommended agroforestry species with their characteristics, ecological functions and farmer-perceived benefits. – A guideline to support the development of sub-region-specific recommendation matrix for seeds and seedling selection. |
| Task 2 – Assess the capacity and accessibility of existing nurseries and propose improvements or establishment plans for seedling production and delivery. Deliverables – Inventory of local nurseries with detailed information on available species. – assess each local nursery based on operational viability using five key indicators (production capacity, staffing, species diversity, infrastructure, and sustainability). Classify each nursery into a 5-level rating system from “Very Weak” to “Excellent” for comparative analysis and planning purposes. – Plan for the operation of the nursery, covering management structure, maintenance arrangements and financial sustainability. |
| Task 3 – Develop a planting schedule and succession plan to ensure timely implementation and long-term sustainability of the agroforestry system. Deliverables – A detailed planting schedule and crop calendar specifying optimal planting periods, site preparation and methods for each species. – Succession plan outlining crop rotation, replanting cycles and long-term management strategies. |
| Task 4 – Estimate the implementation cost of agroforestry system including land preparation, inputs, Labor, maintenance and monitoring. Deliverables – Disaggregated cost estimates for small-(<1ha), medium-(1ha&4ha), and large-scale(>4ha) implementation Scenarios. – Budget planning template adaptable for proposal development and donor reporting. – Include a standard unit cost table within the budget planning template for consistent use in proposals and donor reports. – If standard unit costs are not available, investigate and report on wage rates in Lao PDR, limited to the agriculture sector. |
| Task 5 – Conduct market research to identify potential markets for agroforestry products and understand relevant market trends. Deliverables － Interviewing Stakeholder, engage with local traders, cooperatives, buyers and processors to understand demand, pricing and purchasing standards for agroforestry products. － The consultant will collect both historical and current price data for agroforestry products from relevant markets and seasonal variations to inform market strategies. － Evaluating the logistics, processing facilities, transportation costs and overall infrastructure that influence the movement of agroforestry products and their accessibility to target markets. |
| Task 6 － Develop sustainable input and environmental management strategies, including soil, water, pest, and livestock-related practices tailored to site-specific agricultural conditions. Deliverables － Fertilizer and pesticide application guidelines based on environmental and agronomic suitability. － Comprehensive soil and water management plan. － Needs assessment report for fencing, irrigation and related infrastructure, including cost estimates. － Recommendations for pest control, cover cropping, and livestock integration. |
| Task 7 － Produce high-quality written outputs in English, including detailed reports and presentations (Word, Power point), based on in-depth research on agroforestry and their commercialization potential. Deliverables – High-quality English documents requested by AFoCO Team |
V. Required Qualifications and Competencies
IV. Duration, Location, and Conditions of Assignments
The consultancy is initially expected to run for four months, starting from April 2025. However, the duration may be extended depending on the needs of the project, budget availability, and consultant performance.
The Consultant will be based in Lao PDR and is expected to maintain regular communication with the AFoCO Secretariat throughout the assignment period to ensure the timely submission and refinement of deliverables.
The Consultant is strongly encouraged to accompany AFoCO missions to the field whenever possible, especially during key phases of agroforestry design and consultation with local stakeholders. This will enhance coordination and ensure field realities are integrated into the design process.
Fieldwork and travel within Lao PDR may be required. Remuneration and Terms of Payment
The Consultant will receive a base monthly payment of USD 800. In addition, a performance-based incentive may be provided depending on the quality, completeness, and timeliness of deliverables, as evaluated by the Secretariat. Payment will be disbursed monthly, upon acceptance of deliverables and submission of a valid invoice.
The Consultant is expected to meet the following qualifications and demonstrate the required competencies:
- Nationality
- Must be a citizen of Lao PDR.
- Education
- A Master’s degree in forestry, agroforestry, natural resources management, environmental science, or a closely related field is desirable.
- Experience
- At least seven (7) years of professional experience in agroforestry, sustainable land use planning, rural development, or a related field is desirable.
- Experience working with government institutions, development agencies, or international organizations in Lao PDR is highly desirable.
- Prior involvement in community-based project design and implementation is an asset.
- Technical Competencies
- Solid understanding of agroforestry systems, including species selection, nursery operations, planting techniques, and climate-resilient practices.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and professional reports and presentations in English.
- Skilled in conducting field research, facilitating community engagement, and incorporating local feedback into technical and policy recommendations.
- Communication and Coordination
- Must be fluent in English, both spoken and written.
- Must be available to participate in regular online meetings with AFoCO, as well as with government and local stakeholders.
- Willingness to join AFoCO field missions and collaborate with the team during site visits and farmer consultations.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and in multi-stakeholder settings.
How to Apply
Applicants who meet the qualifications and experience requirements for this position are invited to submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Please send your application to:
Ms. YoungJu Han, Program Officer, Carbon Projects Team
[email protected]
