I. Background
To strengthen sweetpotato seed system and improving nutritional status U5 children, several new improved biofortified varieties of sweetpotato have been introduced in Rwanda since 2014 through partnership between the International Potato Center (CIP) and Rwanda Agricultural and Livestock Board (RAB). Through this collaboration, a strong sweetpotato seed system with community-based decentralized vine multipliers (DVMs) as a source of quality sweetpotato planting material for farmers has evolved. The DVMs are linked to a source of early generation seed producers to ensure that vines produced are quality vines and to farmers through government extension efforts and projects.
II. Objective
Though majority of farmers obtain their sweetpotato planting material from own sources or neighboring farmers, a market for quality vines has started emerging in recent years. This leads to the following research questions: what premium price are farmers willing to pay for quality vines and what are the drivers of the demand for quality vines? Are farmers willing to pay a premium for the high beta carotene nutritious biofortified varieties as opposed to the non-biofortified dominant local ones? What is the effect of information regarding the quality of vines on the demand for quality vines and the biofortified sweetpotato varieties?
III. Deliverables
- Literature review and identify potential variables with justification from the past studies.
- Revise potential variables and incorporate in the econometric model.
- Econometric Analysis using STATA and results.
- Planning for the seed system workshop and send out invitation.
IV. Selection Criteria
- PhD in Agricultural Economics and Applied Econometrics.
- At least eight (8) years of experience.
- Experience in Experimental Auctions studies using econometric tools; experience in STATA.
- Econometrics software – STATA; knowledge in using CS Pro; Survey CTO or ODK
- Advanced written and oral communication skills in English.
- Fluent in Kiswahili.
- Ability to work well in a multidisciplinary group.
V. Time frame
- Consultancy contract will be for 43 working days.
Conditions: This is a national consultancy position limited to Kenya nationals and permit residents only.
How to apply:
Applications: Applicants should apply online through our CIP’s Job Opportunities website: https://cipotato.org/open-vacancies/ including a letter of motivation, a full C.V. with the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience. Screening of applications will begin on A**ugust 5, 2021** and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged; only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
This consultant will not be in contact with children or vulnerable adults.
CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply.
CIP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). CIP also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.