Placement: Chipata District Farmers Association (CDFA) Location: Chipata, Zambia Length: 1.5 months (6 weeks) Start: Feb 2013
Approximately 80% of the Zambian population earn their livelihood through agriculture. Although, the country has recorded strong growth rates in recent years through industry and agriculture, still two thirds of the population live below the poverty line. Chipata District Farmers Association (CDFA) has mobilised smallholder farmers into production of various crops and are at a level of tapping into local, regional and international markets. Visits to potential markets have been made, but now detailed market research is needed, which will feed into potential business linkages with the identified players in the respective crop enterprises. This placement’s objective is to conduct market research on various agricultural crops grown by smallholder farmers.
What does the role involve?
Recognising this placement is only short term, the overall aim is to produce market research on the various agricultural crops grown by smallholder farmers, and this will include: • carry out research on the availability of markets for farm produce within the province, country and outside the country • investigate the potential of setting up an agri-business wing within CDFA With limited time it is also hoped that some of the following may also be achieved: • development of a Business Plan • market CDFA with a view to establishing sustainable linkages • identification of different methods and initiatives to mobilise resources for the business wing • collect, collate and triangulate agribusiness information that will help in developing a database for CDFA and which will help in development of CDFA agri-business plan
Skills, qualifications and experience required
You will have a degree in Agricultural Economics, or similar, with ideally a further qualification in marketing or sales. You will have excellent knowledge of agricultural research and market linkages and be experienced in agri-business management. Experience undertaking research with a focus in agricultural related research, would be a distinct advantage. You will be a team player, flexible and self motivated. Due to the nature of a short term placement, you will be a self-starter that can work with minimal supervision to deadlines. You will be enthusiastic and adaptable to rural conditions.
And the rest....
You will be based within the district of Chipata, Zambia, where other VSO volunteers are also working. There are well developed transport links, excellent amenities and good opportunities to explore the nearest national park (about 3-4 hours away by car). We’ll ask you to commit to at least 1.5 months to undertake this project. In return, we’ll provide you with training before your placement, a local living allowance, return flights, accommodation and insurance. When you return to your home country, we'll support you to resettle.
How to apply:
For more information about VSO and volunteering, please go to: www.vsointernational.org/volunteer and apply for this placement with the following reference on your application form: Z0764/0008/0001
VSO Agricultural Market Research Adviser, Zambia
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