Terms of Reference (ToR) - Country-Level Market Information System (MIS) Analyst
Terms of Reference (ToR)
Country-Level Market Information System (MIS) Analyst
1. Background
To support data-driven decision-making and improve market transparency within the agricultural sector, the African Cashew Alliance (ACA) is seeking to engage six Country-Level MIS Analysts in different West African countries. Each analyst will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating market data in their respective country, ensuring that local stakeholders, including farmers, traders, and policymakers, have access to accurate and timely information. This initiative aims to enhance market efficiency, support policy formulation, and contribute to economic development.
The six analysts will be recruited in the following countries:
- Nigeria
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Togo
- Guinea Conakry
- Ghana
- Benin
The MIS Analyst for Ghana will be engaged for two years (until 2026), while analysts in the other five countries will be recruited for 12 months.
2. Objective of the Assignment
The primary objective of each MIS Analyst is to establish a reliable system for monitoring and reporting on market conditions in their respective country, focusing on cashew.
For the Ghana-Based MIS Analyst
The analyst will be responsible for a comprehensive market information system, ensuring continuous data collection, analysis, and dissemination over two years.
For the Other Five Country-Based MIS Analysts (Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Guinea, Benin)
The analysts will focus on providing detailed weekly and monthly reports during the 2024-2025 harvest season, covering key market insights.
3. Scope of Work and Key Responsibilities
A. Responsibilities of the MIS Analyst (Ghana) – Two-Year Assignment (2024-2026)
The Ghana-based analyst will be responsible for:
Data Collection and Monitoring :
- Establishing a network of reliable data sources for market prices, supply and demand levels, and other relevant indicators.
- Regularly collecting and validating data from local markets, government reports, and industry partners.
Data Analysis and Reporting :
- Analyzing collected data to identify trends, seasonality, and any anomalies in market conditions.
- Generating monthly, quarterly, and annual market reports, including price forecasts and demand projections.
Stakeholder Communication :
- Developing communication materials (bulletins, dashboards) to share findings with key stakeholders, including government bodies, agricultural organizations, and traders.
- Implementing user-friendly channels such as mobile platforms or online portals for data dissemination.
Capacity Building and Support :
- Conducting training sessions for local data collectors to improve data accuracy and consistency.
- Collaborating with stakeholders to refine data collection methodologies and ensure the sustainability of the MIS framework.
Policy Advisory Support :
- Providing policy recommendations based on market data analysis to assist in market stabilization, trade promotion, or subsidy planning.
- Supporting governmental and organizational efforts in monitoring and responding to market dynamics effectively.
B. Responsibilities of the MIS Analysts (Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Guinea, Benin) – 12-Month Assignment (2024-2025 Harvest Season)
The primary role of the MIS Analysts in these five countries is to collect and report on cashew market trends during the 2024-2025 harvest season. Their key responsibilities include:
Market Data Collection and Reporting:
- Collecting and disseminating data on market and industry trends in their respective country.
- Providing weekly detailed reports on:
- Crop/harvest progress.
- Weather conditions affecting the cashew sector.
- Price information and quality trends.
- Business transactions and relevant statistics.
- Changes in legislation affecting the cashew sector.
Submission of Reports:
- Preparing monthly market reports to be included in ACA’s broader market intelligence publications.
- Submitting weekly reports during the peak harvest season.
- Providing additional market insights as requested by ACA.
4. Expected Deliverables
For the Ghana-Based MIS Analyst (24 months)
- Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Reports: In-depth analyses of price trends, demand-supply dynamics, and market forecasts.
- Data Collection Framework: Structured methodology for gathering market data.
- Stakeholder Bulletins: Summaries of key findings, distributed to stakeholders.
- Training and Support Materials: Guides and protocols for local data collectors.
- Policy Briefs: Recommendations based on market trends and data insights.
For the Other Country-Based MIS Analysts (12 months)
- Weekly Market Reports: Updates on crop conditions, weather, prices, and regulations.
- Monthly Reports: Consolidated summaries for ACA’s market intelligence reports.
- Data Records: Detailed statistics on market transactions and industry developments.
5. Duration of the Assignment
- Ghana-Based MIS Analyst: 24 months (2024-2026).
- Other Country-Based MIS Analysts: 12 months (2024-2025 harvest season).
6. Qualifications and Skills Required
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in report writing and data presentation.
- Familiarity with market information systems and experience in stakeholder engagement and capacity-building initiatives.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
7. Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- A CV detailing relevant experience.
- A financial proposal for the assignment.
8. Evaluation Criteria:
- Expérience in assignment
- Financial Proposal
9. Closing date
The closing date for bid submission is 06th April 2024
Accra, 01th April 2024
Ernest Mintah
Managing Director
