JOB DETAILS:
Project: Integrated and Sustainable Production for Inclusive and Resilient Economies (INSPIRE)
Job Ref: VED–2024–INSPIRE–04/06
Location: Kamuli, Dokolo, and Amolatar Districts
Number of Positions: 3
Contract Period: Five years
Reports to: Project Coordinator

About VEDCO:
Volunteer Efforts for Development Concerns (VEDCO) is implementing the INSPIRE project, which aims to foster sustainable and inclusive development for smallholder farmers in Kamuli, Dokolo, and Amolatar districts. The project focuses on increasing productivity, sustainable land use, and enhancing agricultural practices among these communities.

Position Summary:
As a Project Officer, you will be responsible for implementing key activities of the INSPIRE project, from farmer group development to linking them with financial institutions and supporting local seed businesses. You will be based in one of the project districts and work closely with farmer communities, providing guidance and support to ensure successful project outcomes.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Mobilize and profile farmer groups, offering training and validation to ensure proper development.
2. Link farmer groups to financial institutions and help form and train Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) groups.

3. Identify and register beneficiaries of the project.

4. Set up demonstration plots using a hands-on approach and collect demo yield data.
5. Prepare and submit weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports on project activities.

6. Organize and facilitate exposure field visits, field days, and World Food Day celebrations.

7. Coordinate the work of Community-Based Trainers in your assigned area.
8. Guide farmers on enterprise selection and business plan development.
9. Support the development of local seed businesses.
10. Establish linkages between farmer groups, seed breeders, and input dealers.

Qualifications and Experience
1. Education:
o Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or a related discipline.
2. Experience:
o Minimum of 3 years’ experience in project implementation.
o Experience working in rural agricultural settings is an added advantage.

3. Additional Requirements:
o Possession of a valid motorcycle driving permit (Class A) is a MUST.

Critical Competencies:
1. Excellent report writing skills.
2. Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
3. Willingness to work in Kamuli, Dokolo, and Amolatar districts.
4. Ability to work with minimal supervision.
5. Strong interpersonal skills to foster community relationships and trust.

Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications, along with detailed CVs and contact information for three referees, and copies of relevant academic credentials to vedcohr@gmail.com. Address your application to the Human Resource Manager and include the job reference and duty station in the subject line.