SNV is a mission-driven global development partner, rooted in the contexts and societies where we work. Inspired by the transformational principles and objectives set out by the SDGs, we are committed to building resilient agri-food systems that deliver food security and adequate nutrition; increasing the reliability and availability of water and sanitation at an acceptable quantity and quality; and improving access to affordable and sustainable energy for all.

 In doing so, we aim to strengthen institutions, markets, and effective governance within and across the agri-food, energy, and water sectors, reducing gender inequalities and barriers to social inclusion, and enabling adaptation and mitigation to the climate and biodiversity crises.

We are one team of over 1,600 people, the vast majority of whom come from the contexts where we work, in more than 20 countries in Africa and Asia. Together, we are committed to effective and efficient stewardship of resources and maximizing positive, lasting impacts.

Our ability to deliver results rests on our robust foundation of experience, knowledge, evidence, and learning; our commitment to strengthening capacities and catalyzing partnerships; and the relationships and trust of those we work alongside.

Our core values of people-centeredness and respect, equity and equality, and diversity and inclusion, are fundamental to who we are, and what we do. This is reflected in our vision mission, and strategy, which sets out our aspirations and commitments as our compass towards 2030.

For more information on our operations in Kenya and SNV generally visit our website: www.snv.org

About the project

The project is part of the larger Initiative for Sustainable Landscapes (ISLA) Programme implemented by IDH and its partners in the South Western Mau region, aiming to restore and conserve 60,000 hectares of the Mau Forest by 2030 through interventions such as: 1. Forest conservation; 2. Improvement of water flow and access; 3. Sustainable energy; 4. Alternative livelihoods for communities.

The project was born out of the realisation that livestock over-grazing and browsing is one of the main causes of forest loss in the South Western Mau Forest Reserve, which is an important water source, vital for local and downstream communities, businesses, and wildlife reserves alike. This is in addition to the fact that for the surrounding communities, livestock is an important source of income and livelihood.

SNV developed an alternative livestock production and intensification model which helps in reducing grazing pressure on the forest while raising the income of livestock farmers and communities. The model also focuses on establishing input and output markets that enable the community members to access reliable inputs and markets for their livestock produce.

The project has established five dairy cooperatives in the area that provide a stable market for milk, as well as 25 demonstration farms that farmers can access for continued learning and development. The project also set up a rotation system for grazing and encouraged farmers to practice semi-zero-grazing by providing high-quality feed to their livestock on their farms. These interventions have led to reduced livestock dependence on forests and at the same time increased opportunities for cattle farming communities by generating income through the intensification of dairy farming.

To sustainably improve the income levels of the surrounding communities, there is a need to strengthen these dairy cooperatives to increase their capacity and to effectively bulk and market dairy products. This will be achieved through enhancing milk production at the farm level, strengthening the governance and leadership at the cooperatives, and creating linkages with other stakeholders within the value chain.

For more information on the ISLA partnership, please visit: https://www.idhsustainabletrade.com/landscapes/south-west-mau-forest-kenya/

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the dairy value chain, including production, processing, marketing, and distribution, to identify key opportunities and challenges.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to dairy farmers, cooperatives, and other stakeholders to improve production practices, quality standards, and business management skills. Coach, mentor, advise, and train staff involved in the collection, production, processing, and marketing of milk/ dairy products.
• Develop training materials on milk value addition.
• Conduct practical training for the milk cooperatives on milk value addition including making of Yoghurt, Mala, etc. Training should encompass the full cycle of yoghurt processing starting from initial production to assessing the quality of the final product.
• Support the five dairy cooperatives in the implementation of quality assurance systems and standards to ensure the safety, hygiene, and nutritional value of dairy products.
• Demonstrate the methods of producing and application of self-made fermentation starters, also familiarize cooperatives with fermentation starters of leading companies.
• Collaborate with dairy farmers, cooperatives, and producer groups to strengthen their organizational capacity, improve production practices, and enhance access to markets and resources.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in the dairy sector and contribute to knowledge-sharing and learning initiatives within the organization and among partners.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the project manager.

• Candidates should have a Diploma or Degree relevant degree in dairy product manufacturing, food science, or a relevant field. Specialized training or certification in dairy processing and value addition may also be beneficial.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience working in the dairy industry, particularly in milk processing and value addition.
• Experience in developing and delivering training programs, workshops, and demonstrations on milk value addition techniques and best practices.
• Familiarity with equipment, machinery, and ingredients used to make dairy products.
• Knowledge of quality assurance principles, food safety regulations, and industry standards applicable to dairy processing operations.
• Strong technical knowledge of dairy production systems, value chain analysis, market development, and business development
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and project management.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficient in MS Word and Excel at an advanced level.
• A self-motivated achiever with a demonstrated ability for self-steering
• Being conversant with the project areas and good networks in the Kenya agriculture sector is an advantage.

Contract Type: Consulting Contract
Contract Duration: 6 months

Expected Start Date: April 2024

Duty Station: Kericho & Nakuru counties, Kenya with travels in-county

Supervision

The consultant will work in close co-operation with and under the guidance and supervision of the Project lead – SNV and in collaboration with other project stakeholders

How to apply:

If you believe that your credentials meet the outlined profile, we invite you to apply by clicking on the “I AM INTERESTED” tab on this page and submitting your CV and cover letter in English before  15th March 2024. 

We do not appreciate third-party mediation based on this advertisement.