National technical lead consultant supporting the NBSAP Update and the 7th National Reports

Terms of Reference (TOR)

Individual Contractor

1. Background

This Global Programme helps countries update their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) to match the new Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This update will improve how countries implement the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The project assists Somalia’s federal government in preparing and submitting its revised 7th National Report on the implementation of the CBD and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. It follows CBD guidelines for developing NBSAPs and completing the 7th National Report, including recent decisions from COP15. It also builds on previous work through the Global Biodiversity Framework Early Action Support (GBF-EAS).
The project’s goal is to help countries update their NBSAPs to align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and effectively implement the CBD and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. It also supports countries in preparing and submitting their 7th National Report on the implementation of the CBD and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The project has two main outcomes:
A. Updating NBSAPs to align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This involves engaging stakeholders, using tools and strategies for a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, and ensuring gender mainstreaming in the consultation process.

B. Addressing gaps and inconsistencies between the existing NBSAP and the changes needed to achieve the Global Biodiversity Framework, building on the results of the GBF-EAS.
Somalia’s federal government is committed to completing the 7th National Report on Biodiversity, following CBD COP Decision 15/6 on planning, monitoring, reporting, and review. Somalia is receiving support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to do this work according to COP15 guidance, using indicators to measure and report progress on national targets, NBSAPs, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Somalia’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) is revising and updating its NBSAP to align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, integrate national biodiversity targets, address policy gaps, and strengthen implementation strategies. To ensure the successful update of the NBSAP, MoECC is hiring National technical lead consultant supporting the NBSAP Update and the 7th National Reports to provide the technical support throughout the process.

2. Objectives / Scope of Work
The primary objective of this assignment is to lead the technical support throughout the process of updating the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the 7th National Reports in accordance with the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD).
This involves collaborating with national stakeholders to ensure the timely and high-quality delivery of milestones, enabling the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of the federal government of Somalia to produce a thorough and accurate updated NBSAP and the 7th national report. These documents should align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and incorporate the necessary changes to achieve the Global Biodiversity Framework, building on the results of the GBF-EAS.

3. Expected Outputs and Deliverables

Draft National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP)

– Updated Strategic Goals, Targets, and Action Plans: Align these with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, ensuring they reflect the latest global biodiversity priorities.
– Implementation Framework: Develop a comprehensive framework that includes mechanisms for monitoring progress, securing financing, and establishing governance structures to oversee the implementation.
– Integration of Best Practices: National Policies and Sectoral Plans: Incorporate best practices for integrating biodiversity priorities into national policies and sectoral plans, ensuring a cohesive approach across different sectors.
– Key NBSAP Documents: Consultants will undertake a thorough revision and enhancement of key NBSAP documents to ensure they are up-to-date and effective.
– Completion of the 7th National Report on Biodiversity: Ensure the report is comprehensive, accurately reflecting the country’s progress and challenges in biodiversity conservation.
– Updating the NBSAP and Completing the 7th National Report: Develop a detailed work plan and methodology that outlines the steps and processes involved in updating the NBSAP and completing the 7th National Report.
– Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement Strategy: Create a strategy for mapping stakeholders and engaging them in the process to ensure an inclusive and participatory approach.

7th National Report to the CBD
– Draft and Final Report: Prepare both draft and final versions of the report, detailing the country’s progress on biodiversity conservation, key achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
– Updated Biodiversity Data: Include updated biodiversity data, case studies, and policy recommendations to provide a comprehensive overview for submission to the CBD Secretariat.
– Validation Workshops: Conduct workshops to gather feedback from stakeholders on the revised NBSAP and 7th National Report, ensuring their inputs are incorporated into the final documents.
– Incorporate Inputs: Integrate stakeholder feedback into the final versions of the NBSAP and 7th National Report.
– Actionable Implementation Roadmap: Ensure the finalized NBSAP includes a clear and actionable roadmap for implementation.
– Official Submission: Complete the process with the official submission of the 7th National Report to the CBD Secretariat, ensuring all requirements are met.
Quality and Technical Guidance
– Quality Assurance: Implement a robust quality assurance process to ensure all deliverables meet high standards of accuracy, relevance, and completeness. This includes regular reviews, validation checks, and adherence to best practices in biodiversity planning and reporting.
– Technical Support: Provide technical guidance on methodologies for biodiversity data collection, analysis, and reporting. This includes training on the use of relevant tools and technologies, as well as support in developing indicators for monitoring progress.
– Capacity Building: Enhance the capacity of national stakeholders through workshops and training sessions focused on biodiversity planning, implementation, and reporting. This ensures that all involved parties have the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute effectively.

4. Schedule of Payments

Payments will be made upon submission and joint approval of deliverables and upon submission of the certificate of payment in line with the expected deliverables.

5. Timeframe / Duration

The initial duration for this assignment is for nine months subjected to the performance.

6. Qualification

Advanced master’s degree in science, Environment, Climate Change, Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity or a related field.

7. Minimum years of relevant work experience

At least 5 years of professional experience working with multiple stakeholders in the development, coordination or implementation of United Nation Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) strategies, policies, plans or projects.

8. Technical Experience
Biodiversity and Conservation Expertise
– In-depth Knowledge: Extensive understanding of biodiversity conservation principles, including ecosystem services, species protection, and habitat restoration.
– NBSAP and CBD Experience: Proven experience with the development and implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), including familiarity with the goals, targets, and reporting requirements set by the CBD.
– Large-scale Environmental Projects: Demonstrated ability to manage complex environmental projects, encompassing planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation.
– Stakeholder Coordination: Skilled in coordinating with various stakeholders such as government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), local communities, and international bodies to ensure project success.
Technical Reporting

– Data Collection and Analysis: Proficiency in collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing biodiversity data, using indicators to measure progress towards biodiversity targets.

– Report Preparation: Experience in preparing comprehensive national reports on biodiversity, adhering to the guidelines and formats provided by the CBD for the 7th National Report.

Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
– Understanding Policies: Knowledge of national and international biodiversity policies, including the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

– Alignment with Global Frameworks: Experience in aligning national biodiversity strategies with global frameworks and ensuring compliance with international agreements.
Capacity Building
– Program Design and Implementation: Ability to design and implement capacity-building programs for stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation.

– Facilitation Skills: Proficiency in facilitating workshops, training sessions, and other educational activities to build local capacity.
Communication and Collaboration
– Effective Communication: Strong communication skills for engaging stakeholders, conducting public awareness campaigns, and disseminating information.

– Collaborative Work: Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), to ensure inclusive and participatory approaches to biodiversity conservation.
Technical Skills
– Software Proficiency: Proficiency in using software tools for biodiversity data management and analysis, such as statistical software and databases.
– GIS Expertise: Ability to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, spatial analysis, and visualizing biodiversity data.
Languages
Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
1. Institutional arrangement and
Reporting Location: The national consultant will be based at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Federal Government of Somalia, in Mogadishu under the direct supervision of the Director of Biodiversity.

Deadline: 24/09/2025

To apply for this position, please submit your application and updated CV to:
admin.finance@moecc.gov.so
CC: dg@moecc.gov.so

Kindly ensure the subject line of your email clearly states the position you are applying for.