Deadline of this Job: 31 August 2022
Scope of Work
The Financial Specialist will be required to carry out the following:
i. Prepare annual budgets that are tailored to achieving the connection
targets and other PIU activities;
ii. Monitor the financial commitments and have these reconciled to available
funding and ensure there is no over commitment;
iii. Ensure clear disaggregated accounting and reporting of finance from the
Window for Host Communities and Refugees at the RHD and settlement
level.
iv. Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual cash flow forecast/projections and
bring them to the attention of the PCU and the WB for timely release of
funds for settlement of all payments to service providers ;
v. Process payments under the EASP and ensure these are appropriately
approved as per GoU and WB financial management guidelines;
vi. Prepare and analyse financial data on outstanding payments/ obligations
captured on the financial management system against payment records
for reporting purposes;
vii. Prepare periodic financial reports for respective funders in line with the
funding agreements;
viii. Participate in conducting accurate and timely closing activities including
preparation and recording of entries, financial statements and
maintenance of supporting records and files;
ix. Participate in the preparation of financial reports for MEMD;
x. Support the Project Accountant under the PCU in the preparation of
monthly bank reconciliation statements and have these appropriately
approved;
xi. Prepare and take custody of financial statements, including income
statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and other supporting
footnotes and schedules in line with Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles (GAAP);
xii. Provide support and assistance to auditors;
xiii. Undertake any other activities as requested by the Project Manager
provided these duties contribute to achieving the development objectives
of the EASP project.
1.4 Person Specifications
a) Qualifications
i. Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce/ finance/ Business Administration
majoring in Accounting/ financial Management from a recognized
University/Institution.
ii. Master’s Degree in Business Administration/Accounting/Finance from
a recognized University/Institution.
iii. Full Professional qualification in either ACCA, CPA, CFA or CA.
b) Experience
i. At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in financial
management, financial analysis and accounting four (4) of which must have
been in an accounting and financial management systems role at a senior
level in government or a reputable organisation.
ii. Specific experience in implementing large scale infrastructure projects
related work financed by Multilateral/ Development Financial Institutions
such as the World Bank, ADB, AFD, KfW, China Exim Bank or equivalent.
iii. Demonstrated experience in using in using World Bank and Government’s
accounting systems such as Integrated Financial Management Information
System (IFMIS) and World Bank Client Connection.
c) Competencies
i) Technical
a. Knowledge of accounting software and financial systems.
b. Planning and budgeting
c. Expenditure management and budgetary control
d. Financial reporting
e. Accounting/ book keeping
f. Risk management and assurance
g. Analytical skills and Strategic thinking
h. Information and communication technology
ii) Behavioral
a. Ethics and Integrity
b. Assertiveness and Self confidence
c. Self-control and stress management
d. Flexibility
e. Concern for quality and standards
1.5 Duration of the Assignment
The assignment shall be for an initial period of three (3) years, renewable subject
to satisfactory performance.
1.6 Appointment and Reporting Obligations
The Financial Specialist will report to the Project Manager-PIU.
a) Budgeting and Planning
i. Support the Implementing Institutions in preparing annual Work Plans and
Budgets of the project in accordance with GoU and World Bank budgeting
rules and procedures.
ii. Consolidate and submit the annual Work plans and the budgets for GoU
and IDA approvals.
iii. Upload approved annual Work plan and budgets to IFMS.
iv. Prepare quarterly monitoring reports comparing actual expenditure against
the budget Highlighting weak performing areas for attention of Project
Coordination Manager;
v. Prepare annual and quarterly disbursement forecasts for all components of
the project in line with project’s procurement plan and Work Plans.
b) Funds Management
i. Prepare cash flow forecasts in consultation with the Project Coordination
Manager at EASP.
ii. Ensure that all accounting records and bank accounts are up-to-date under
approved computerized accounting systems.
iii. Prepare monthly Bank reconciliation for all Project Bank Accounts.
iv. Prepare monthly returns for onward transmission to the Treasurer Office of
Accounts in compliance with Government accounting reporting
requirements.
c) Expenditure/Payment Processing
i. Monitor compliance with Operating procedures of Government and the
World Bank e.g. Procurement, Disbursements, Special and Designated
Accounts, Interim Financial Reports (IFRs), Special Commitments, Letters
of Credit etc. while processing payments.
ii. Analyze, plan, design, implement, and monitor a system to augment internal
controls in line with best practices in the process of payment and
expenditure management.
iii. Apply pre-audit checks on all payments before payment from the
assignment accounts including budget availability, sanction of competent
authority and compliance with applicable financial rules & regulations.
iv. Obtain IDA No Objection from the Bank for every prior review activity before
processing any payment.
v. Verify payments and ensure that only eligible payments are forwarded for
Accounting Officer’s approval and drawing funds from the assignment
account.
d) Accounting and Record Management
i. Record all transactions timely and accurately in the books of accounts (both
in UGX and US$) and ensure that no expenditure remain unaccounted.
ii. Maintain accounts as per government accounting procedures and IDA
Financial Management guidelines.
iii. Oversee the process of entering transaction level data in the IFMS and
generating vouchers from the system.
iv. Ensure up-to-date maintenance of adequate registers, books of accounts
and records in appropriate order and format to meet the government and
World Bank requirements and to facilitate classification and analyzing the
financial information for monitoring the project progress.
v. Prepare monthly bank reconciliation statements of assignment account both
in UGX and US$.
vi. Reconcile the expenditure on government prescribed format with the office
of Accountant General.
vii. Process monthly payroll of project employees. Ensure proper payroll
controls are applied and the payments are made directly in the Bank
accounts.
viii. Prepare and process monthly payroll and submit to Accounting Officer
through Project Coordination Manager for approval prior to making any
payment under salaries.
ix. Ensure that the Project fixed assets records are maintained for the project
identifying location and user of each asset.
x. Arrange for the annual and periodical inventory review and update of the
project assets records.
xi. Ensure safe custody of all financial records for review by Bank Missions,
third party monitoring agents; and external & internal auditors.
e) Financial Reporting
i. Prepare Quarterly and Annual Financial Statements for parallel financing to
the projects from World Bank and counterpart funds as well as timely
reporting to the Accounting Officer on material variances.
ii. Monitor the financial management aspects of the progress of contracts e.g.
the deliveries versus amount paid for.
iii. Support the Project Coordination Manager in monitoring performance
against agreed Financial Performance Indicators.
iv. Conduct Financial Management Reviews and Prepare Quarterly Reports.
v. Manage financial aspects of the contracts under implementation, including
payment terms, purchase orders and variation orders.
vi. Provide Backup financial management support to line Ministries under
EASP.
vii. Prepare periodic financial reports specified under the Legal Agreement or
recommended by the World Bank.
f) Audit
i. Liaise with the Internal/External Auditors and follow up any audit
queries/management letters.
ii. Make arrangements for timely initiation and completion audit of the projects
and ensure that reports produced are in compliance with audit requirements
of the Government and the World Bank.
iii. Ensure that the project is adequately reflected in the audit plan of internal
auditors and that internal audit is periodically conducted in accordance with
the internal audit plan.
iv. Attend entry and exit meetings with internal/ external auditors, facilitate
timely completion of audits by arranging timely submission of annual
financial statement in appropriate format, provision of information and
documents responding to queries, initiate actions for holding implementing
Institutions meetings to address audit objections.
1.4 Person Specifications
a) Qualifications
i. Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce/ finance/ Business Administration
majoring in Accounting/ financial Management from a recognized
University/Institution
ii. Master’s Degree in Business Administration/Accounting/Finance from a
recognized University/Institution
iii. Full Professional qualification in either ACCA, CPA, CFA or CA.
b) Experience
i. At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in financial
management, financial analysis and accounting four (4) of which must have
been in public sector accounting and financial management systems role at
a senior level in government or a reputable organisation.
ii. Specific experience in Projects financed by Multilateral/ Development
Financial Institutions such as the World Bank, ADB, AFD, KfW, China Exim
Bank or equivalent.
iii. Demonstrated experience in using World Bank and Government’s
accounting systems such as Integrated Financial Management Information
System (IFMIS) and World Bank Client Connection.
c) Competencies
i. Technical
a. Knowledge of accounting software and financial systems.
b. Planning and budgeting
c. Expenditure management and budgetary control
d. Financial reporting
e. Accounting/ book keeping
f. Risk management and assurance
g. Analytical skills and Strategic thinking
h. Information and communication technology
ii. Behavioral
a. Ethics and Integrity
b. Assertiveness and Self confidence
c. Self-control and stress management
d. Flexibility
e. Concern for quality and standards
Organizational Setting
In order to promote the use of a systemic approach and mobilize action towards food systems transformation to accelerate progress for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and SDGs, the first-ever United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) was held virtually as part of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly on 23rd September 2021. The Summit was a culmination of an 18-month process in which 148 countries hosted Summit Dialogues to voice out the issues affecting and influencing food systems, and identify the transformational strategies for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable practices to prevent hunger and enhance nutrition. The Summit voiced catalytic and game-changing propositions for action that will spur national, regional and international partnerships and action to deliver equitably on all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through food systems transformation.
In support to that process, the Norway-funded FMM Sub-Programme “Governance Innovations for Sustainable Development of Food Systems†spearheaded by the Governance and Policy Support Unit in the Chief Economist Office, in close coordination with the Food Systems and Food Safety Division, provided assistance and financial support to three countries (notably Tanzania, Uganda and Indonesia) including to organize their National Food System Dialogues (NFSDs) that informed the UNFSS held on 23rd September 2021. Based on the outcomes of the NFSD and UNFSS recommendations, the programme is currently seeking to deepen its engagement in Uganda, in particular focusing on strengthening evidence to setting up an Agrifood Systems Transformation Agenda, building partnerships and innovating appropriate institutional mechanisms to support cross-sectoral programming and planning for sustainable development and transformation of food systems over the next decade (2022-2030).
The FMM Sub programme “Governance Innovations for Sustainable Development of Food Systems†seeks to enable more comprehensive and scalable multi-sectoral actions across three main pillars of food systems: sustainable food production, value creation and markets, and improved nutrition and diets – all within a comprehensive governance framework. The programme builds on on-going FAO and partner methodologies, initiatives, knowledge and competencies, including innovative agro-ecological, climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive practices and technologies, and capitalizes on the results and supports the follow-up of the National Food System Summit process.
The Programme adopts an open and transparent approach that utilizes multi-dimensional data to generate evidence-based analysis of crucial inter-sectoral nexuses and trade-offs and enable effective decision making of concerned food systems actors to enable and support food systems transformation.
The Food Systems Expert will provide support to the development of country-based processes for replicable and scalable food systems governance programmes in Uganda. In particular the Expert would support the assistance provided to strengthten the policy and institutional environment conducive to food systems transformation in line with existing commitments and the priorities identified through data and analysis as well as interventions identified in the national dialogues, and reflected in the Uganda Food System transformation pathway.
Reporting Lines
The Food System Specialist (Policy and Programme) reports to the FAO Country Representative in Uganda through the DFAOR and the Team Lead/Policy on the one hand, and to the Global Project Coordinator, and the technical team including experts in the Governance and Policy Support Unit and in the Food Systems and Food Safety Division in HQ.
Technical Focus
The FAO seeks to recruit an experienced Food Systems Expert (Policy and Programme) to support implementation of activities under FMM/GLO/150/MUL programme “Governance Innovation for Sustainable Food Systems†in Uganda. The desirable profile include demonstrated results-orientation and capacity for analysing complex issues, conducting effective policy dialogues , directing expert seminars or training courses, preparing documents for conferences and meetings, or writing reports on matters within the area of programme focus. The assignment will involve full-time functions. The Food Systems Expert contract is for 11 months (consultant) with possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and conditional on the availability of the resources and needs of the Organization.
The incumbent is expected to complement the FAO’s ongoing policy assistance work, supporting the team already engaged in food systems transformation agenda (NFSD, political economy analysis and modelling, Rapid Food Systems Assessment, Legal Assessment, Modelling of cost-effective investments to support agrifood systems transformation, etc.). He will be instrumental in seeking coherence and convergence of existing policy frameworks, minimizing duplication, identifying trade-offs and mapping sectoral and stakeholders’ actions required to implement transformative food systems actions of existing programmes and plans.
Qualified non-recruited candidates would be included in the Governance and Policy support team roster and considered for future similar assignments.
In line with recently approved FAO Country Programming Framework for Uganda, and taking into consideration the outcomes of the National Food Systems Dialogues and the identified pathway for food systems transformation presented by the Government of Uganda at the UNFSS, the Expert, under the direct technical supervision of the Team Lead/Policy, and the overall supervision of the FMM/GLO/150/MUL coordinator , the expert shall assist the GoU to carry out a strategic policy and political economy analysis and modelling particularly looking at key overarching framework policies including the National Development Plan (NDP) III, the National programmes on Agro-Industrialization, Human Capital Development, and Community Mobilisation and Mind-set Change, the Uganda Nutrition Action Plan (UNAP) II 2020/2021-2024/2025 and the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the National Strategy Towards Zero Hunger 2021-2030.
As reflected in the documents consolidated during the Uganda’s NFSDs, the UNFSS and the National Pathway and Commitment to food systems transformation, there is a need for strengthening the evidence base and technical support to guide the transformation process, operationalizing commitments into action, and ensuring harmonization of relevant policies, as well as inter-institutional, inter-sectoral and multi-stakeholder coordination.
With priorities and duties assigned across different institutions, and regulated by unconnected legislations and policies, there is risk for food systems actions and recommendations emerged from the NFSDs and UNFSS to be dispersed among various ongoing national plans and strategic programmes. To address this gap, a strategic analysis is required to capitalize on a number of strategic policy, legal and institutional instruments across different sectors that address several issues related to food systems, food security and nutrition. Hence, it is of the essence that the strategic analysis identify, map, quantify and evaluate issues covered in existing frameworks and those that are outstanding to consider in the National Food Systems Transformation Plan and evaluate roles and potential contributions of concerned institutions and non-governmental partners. The strategic analysis shall also stress the need for better coherence and convergence towards SDGs and other GoU development strategic targets in line with the NDPs and Vision 2040.
Tasks and responsibilities
4.1. Food Systems Transformation and governance
• Ensure smooth follow up and support of policy and political economy analysis conducted in partnership with Kiel University under the project FMM/150/GLO/MUL.
• Support the consolidation of governance analysis, including stakeholder analysis and political analysis for identification of most effective policy mix supporting food systems transformation
• Provide technical assistance to the GoU, in particular to the OPM, MAAIF and NPA, to identifyy the most effective inter-institutional and multi-stakeholder coordination and participation mechanisms to support the Food systems Tranformation Agenda in Uganda.
• Provide technical support to the GoU’s Food Systems Strategic Analysis to consolidate policy actions under NDP III and other relevant policy frameworks in order to inform the Food Systems Transformation Plan (FSTP).
• Lead organization of validation workshops for endorsement and operationalization of results emerging from policy, governance and political economy analysis conducted under the project.
• Coordinate with FAOUG focal point for Hand in Hand Initiative to ensure linkages and complementarity between the two projects;
• Advise the GoU in harmonizing and coordinating existing policy frameworks on Food and Nutrition Security under the NDP III – including but not limited to Agro-industrialization programme, Regional Development Programmes, National Strategy towards Zero Hunger, Uganda Nutrition Action Plan II and the Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Policy- seeking policy coherence and convergence towards reaching all 17 SDGs by 2030.
• Assist the GoU in the Development of a evidence-based Food Systems Transformation Plan aligned to national identified priorities and key policies and programmes including, the Food System Summit pathway, the National Development Plan (NDP III 2021-2025) and other relevant policy frameworks.
4.2. Advocacy and communication
• In collaboration with the Governance, Partnership and Food Systems officer, assist FAO to strengthen its advocacy work on FNS and Agrifood Systems Transformation. In particular, reaching out to the Uganda Parliamentary Alliance for Food and Nutrition Security (UPAN-FNS), the Parliamentary Select Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, The Food Right Alliance (FRA), the CEPROHT, CONSENT and other CSO has to advance the Agenda of Agrifood System Transformation trough advocacy to build resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems in Uganda.
• Plan, organize and participate in meetings, capacity development activities and training workshops, including around institutional capacities to strengthen integrated action and implementation, and oversees the development of related materials and reports;
• Prepare reports to FAO, the donor and the National Government on progress achievement and issues related to project implementation; ensuring continuous communication and information flow between national stakeholders and HQ project coordinator and technical task force.
• Perform any other required duty related to project implementation.
• Perform any other duty as instructed by the FAOR
Minimum Requirements
• University degree in political sciences, policy and governance, political economy, development economics, agronomy, food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture and natural resources management, social sciences, and related field or proven relevant experience in the above fields;
• Seven years of relevant experience in policy advice and analysis relating to food security, nutrition, agriculture and rural development, and food system governance and political economy. Demonstrated experience in working on similar assignments in particular in African countries;
• Working knowledge of English and limited knowledge of one of the other FAO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable;
• Extent and relevance of experience in political economy, governance, policy analysis and advise related to sustainable food systems, food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture and rural development;
• Extent and relevance of experience in working with intergovernmental bodies, multi-stakeholder alliances, and multidisciplinary teams in particular in Africa.
• Extent and relevance of experience in strengthening inclusive local and national food supply, in particular market and value chain development
• Conversant with agrifood systems transformation work
• Demonstrated experience in political economy analysis and support to governance and multi-stakeholder participation in policy making
• Demonstrated experience working on trade-policy related matters
• Very good understanding of Food Security, Nutrition and Health-policy related matters
• Demonstrated experience and carrying out policy Dialogue with Government and other relevant stakeholders
• Highly analytical and writing skills (Concept Note, Policy Brief and Project Proposals, etc.)
• Good understanding of International Development Architecture and Aid Modalities
• Demonstrated capacity in data use and analysis
Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency
Additional information
• FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
• Please note that FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from an educational institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For more information, visit the FAO employment website
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. Subject to certain exemptions, vaccination against COVID-19 will in principle be required. Vaccination status will be verified as part of the medical clearance process.
Scope of Work
The Financial Specialist will be required to carry out the following:
i. Prepare annual budgets that are tailored to achieving the connection
targets and other PIU activities;
ii. Monitor the financial commitments and have these reconciled to available
funding and ensure there is no over commitment;
iii. Ensure clear disaggregated accounting and reporting of finance from the
Window for Host Communities and Refugees at the RHD and settlement
level.
iv. Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual cash flow forecast/projections and
bring them to the attention of the PCU and the WB for timely release of
funds for settlement of all payments to service providers ;
v. Process payments under the EASP and ensure these are appropriately
approved as per GoU and WB financial management guidelines;
vi. Prepare and analyse financial data on outstanding payments/ obligations
captured on the financial management system against payment records
for reporting purposes;
vii. Prepare periodic financial reports for respective funders in line with the
funding agreements;
viii. Participate in conducting accurate and timely closing activities including
preparation and recording of entries, financial statements and
maintenance of supporting records and files;
ix. Participate in the preparation of financial reports for MEMD;
x. Support the Project Accountant under the PCU in the preparation of
monthly bank reconciliation statements and have these appropriately
approved;
xi. Prepare and take custody of financial statements, including income
statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and other supporting
footnotes and schedules in line with Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles (GAAP);
xii. Provide support and assistance to auditors;
xiii. Undertake any other activities as requested by the Project Manager
provided these duties contribute to achieving the development objectives
of the EASP project.
1.4 Person Specifications
a) Qualifications
i. Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce/ finance/ Business Administration
majoring in Accounting/ financial Management from a recognized
University/Institution.
ii. Master’s Degree in Business Administration/Accounting/Finance from
a recognized University/Institution.
iii. Full Professional qualification in either ACCA, CPA, CFA or CA.
b) Experience
i. At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in financial
management, financial analysis and accounting four (4) of which must have
been in an accounting and financial management systems role at a senior
level in government or a reputable organisation.
ii. Specific experience in implementing large scale infrastructure projects
related work financed by Multilateral/ Development Financial Institutions
such as the World Bank, ADB, AFD, KfW, China Exim Bank or equivalent.
iii. Demonstrated experience in using in using World Bank and Government’s
accounting systems such as Integrated Financial Management Information
System (IFMIS) and World Bank Client Connection.
c) Competencies
i) Technical
a. Knowledge of accounting software and financial systems.
b. Planning and budgeting
c. Expenditure management and budgetary control
d. Financial reporting
e. Accounting/ book keeping
f. Risk management and assurance
g. Analytical skills and Strategic thinking
h. Information and communication technology
ii) Behavioral
a. Ethics and Integrity
b. Assertiveness and Self confidence
c. Self-control and stress management
d. Flexibility
e. Concern for quality and standards
1.5 Duration of the Assignment
The assignment shall be for an initial period of three (3) years, renewable subject
to satisfactory performance.
1.6 Appointment and Reporting Obligations
The Financial Specialist will report to the Project Manager-PIU.
Deadline of this Job: 31 August 2022
The scope of work will include but is not limited to the following:- a) Budgeting and Planning
i. Support the Implementing Institutions in preparing annual Work Plans and
Budgets of the project in accordance with GoU and World Bank budgeting
rules and procedures.
ii. Consolidate and submit the annual Work plans and the budgets for GoU
and IDA approvals.
iii. Upload approved annual Work plan and budgets to IFMS.
iv. Prepare quarterly monitoring reports comparing actual expenditure against
the budget Highlighting weak performing areas for attention of Project
Coordination Manager;
v. Prepare annual and quarterly disbursement forecasts for all components of
the project in line with project’s procurement plan and Work Plans.
b) Funds Management
i. Prepare cash flow forecasts in consultation with the Project Coordination
Manager at EASP.
ii. Ensure that all accounting records and bank accounts are up-to-date under
approved computerized accounting systems.
iii. Prepare monthly Bank reconciliation for all Project Bank Accounts.
iv. Prepare monthly returns for onward transmission to the Treasurer Office of
Accounts in compliance with Government accounting reporting
requirements.
c) Expenditure/Payment Processing
i. Monitor compliance with Operating procedures of Government and the
World Bank e.g. Procurement, Disbursements, Special and Designated
Accounts, Interim Financial Reports (IFRs), Special Commitments, Letters
of Credit etc. while processing payments.
ii. Analyze, plan, design, implement, and monitor a system to augment internal
controls in line with best practices in the process of payment and
expenditure management.
iii. Apply pre-audit checks on all payments before payment from the
assignment accounts including budget availability, sanction of competent
authority and compliance with applicable financial rules & regulations.
iv. Obtain IDA No Objection from the Bank for every prior review activity before
processing any payment.
v. Verify payments and ensure that only eligible payments are forwarded for
Accounting Officer’s approval and drawing funds from the assignment
account.
d) Accounting and Record Management
i. Record all transactions timely and accurately in the books of accounts (both
in UGX and US$) and ensure that no expenditure remain unaccounted.
ii. Maintain accounts as per government accounting procedures and IDA
Financial Management guidelines.
iii. Oversee the process of entering transaction level data in the IFMS and
generating vouchers from the system.
iv. Ensure up-to-date maintenance of adequate registers, books of accounts
and records in appropriate order and format to meet the government and
World Bank requirements and to facilitate classification and analyzing the
financial information for monitoring the project progress.
v. Prepare monthly bank reconciliation statements of assignment account both
in UGX and US$.
vi. Reconcile the expenditure on government prescribed format with the office
of Accountant General.
vii. Process monthly payroll of project employees. Ensure proper payroll
controls are applied and the payments are made directly in the Bank
accounts.
viii. Prepare and process monthly payroll and submit to Accounting Officer
through Project Coordination Manager for approval prior to making any
payment under salaries.
ix. Ensure that the Project fixed assets records are maintained for the project
identifying location and user of each asset.
x. Arrange for the annual and periodical inventory review and update of the
project assets records.
xi. Ensure safe custody of all financial records for review by Bank Missions,
third party monitoring agents; and external & internal auditors.
e) Financial Reporting
i. Prepare Quarterly and Annual Financial Statements for parallel financing to
the projects from World Bank and counterpart funds as well as timely
reporting to the Accounting Officer on material variances.
ii. Monitor the financial management aspects of the progress of contracts e.g.
the deliveries versus amount paid for.
iii. Support the Project Coordination Manager in monitoring performance
against agreed Financial Performance Indicators.
iv. Conduct Financial Management Reviews and Prepare Quarterly Reports.
v. Manage financial aspects of the contracts under implementation, including
payment terms, purchase orders and variation orders.
vi. Provide Backup financial management support to line Ministries under
EASP.
vii. Prepare periodic financial reports specified under the Legal Agreement or
recommended by the World Bank.
f) Audit
i. Liaise with the Internal/External Auditors and follow up any audit
queries/management letters.
ii. Make arrangements for timely initiation and completion audit of the projects
and ensure that reports produced are in compliance with audit requirements
of the Government and the World Bank.
iii. Ensure that the project is adequately reflected in the audit plan of internal
auditors and that internal audit is periodically conducted in accordance with
the internal audit plan.
iv. Attend entry and exit meetings with internal/ external auditors, facilitate
timely completion of audits by arranging timely submission of annual
financial statement in appropriate format, provision of information and
documents responding to queries, initiate actions for holding implementing
Institutions meetings to address audit objections.
1.4 Person Specifications
a) Qualifications
i. Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce/ finance/ Business Administration
majoring in Accounting/ financial Management from a recognized
University/Institution
ii. Master’s Degree in Business Administration/Accounting/Finance from a
recognized University/Institution
iii. Full Professional qualification in either ACCA, CPA, CFA or CA.
b) Experience
i. At least eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in financial
management, financial analysis and accounting four (4) of which must have
been in public sector accounting and financial management systems role at
a senior level in government or a reputable organisation.
ii. Specific experience in Projects financed by Multilateral/ Development
Financial Institutions such as the World Bank, ADB, AFD, KfW, China Exim
Bank or equivalent.
iii. Demonstrated experience in using World Bank and Government’s
accounting systems such as Integrated Financial Management Information
System (IFMIS) and World Bank Client Connection.
c) Competencies
i. Technical
a. Knowledge of accounting software and financial systems.
b. Planning and budgeting
c. Expenditure management and budgetary control
d. Financial reporting
e. Accounting/ book keeping
f. Risk management and assurance
g. Analytical skills and Strategic thinking
h. Information and communication technology
ii. Behavioral
a. Ethics and Integrity
b. Assertiveness and Self confidence
c. Self-control and stress management
d. Flexibility
e. Concern for quality and standards
Deadline of this Job: 24 August 2022
Food Systems Specialist (Policy and Programme) – FAO Uganda Organizational Setting
In order to promote the use of a systemic approach and mobilize action towards food systems transformation to accelerate progress for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and SDGs, the first-ever United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) was held virtually as part of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly on 23rd September 2021. The Summit was a culmination of an 18-month process in which 148 countries hosted Summit Dialogues to voice out the issues affecting and influencing food systems, and identify the transformational strategies for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable practices to prevent hunger and enhance nutrition. The Summit voiced catalytic and game-changing propositions for action that will spur national, regional and international partnerships and action to deliver equitably on all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through food systems transformation.
In support to that process, the Norway-funded FMM Sub-Programme “Governance Innovations for Sustainable Development of Food Systems†spearheaded by the Governance and Policy Support Unit in the Chief Economist Office, in close coordination with the Food Systems and Food Safety Division, provided assistance and financial support to three countries (notably Tanzania, Uganda and Indonesia) including to organize their National Food System Dialogues (NFSDs) that informed the UNFSS held on 23rd September 2021. Based on the outcomes of the NFSD and UNFSS recommendations, the programme is currently seeking to deepen its engagement in Uganda, in particular focusing on strengthening evidence to setting up an Agrifood Systems Transformation Agenda, building partnerships and innovating appropriate institutional mechanisms to support cross-sectoral programming and planning for sustainable development and transformation of food systems over the next decade (2022-2030).
The FMM Sub programme “Governance Innovations for Sustainable Development of Food Systems†seeks to enable more comprehensive and scalable multi-sectoral actions across three main pillars of food systems: sustainable food production, value creation and markets, and improved nutrition and diets – all within a comprehensive governance framework. The programme builds on on-going FAO and partner methodologies, initiatives, knowledge and competencies, including innovative agro-ecological, climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive practices and technologies, and capitalizes on the results and supports the follow-up of the National Food System Summit process.
The Programme adopts an open and transparent approach that utilizes multi-dimensional data to generate evidence-based analysis of crucial inter-sectoral nexuses and trade-offs and enable effective decision making of concerned food systems actors to enable and support food systems transformation.
The Food Systems Expert will provide support to the development of country-based processes for replicable and scalable food systems governance programmes in Uganda. In particular the Expert would support the assistance provided to strengthten the policy and institutional environment conducive to food systems transformation in line with existing commitments and the priorities identified through data and analysis as well as interventions identified in the national dialogues, and reflected in the Uganda Food System transformation pathway.
Reporting Lines
The Food System Specialist (Policy and Programme) reports to the FAO Country Representative in Uganda through the DFAOR and the Team Lead/Policy on the one hand, and to the Global Project Coordinator, and the technical team including experts in the Governance and Policy Support Unit and in the Food Systems and Food Safety Division in HQ.
Technical Focus
The FAO seeks to recruit an experienced Food Systems Expert (Policy and Programme) to support implementation of activities under FMM/GLO/150/MUL programme “Governance Innovation for Sustainable Food Systems†in Uganda. The desirable profile include demonstrated results-orientation and capacity for analysing complex issues, conducting effective policy dialogues , directing expert seminars or training courses, preparing documents for conferences and meetings, or writing reports on matters within the area of programme focus. The assignment will involve full-time functions. The Food Systems Expert contract is for 11 months (consultant) with possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and conditional on the availability of the resources and needs of the Organization.
The incumbent is expected to complement the FAO’s ongoing policy assistance work, supporting the team already engaged in food systems transformation agenda (NFSD, political economy analysis and modelling, Rapid Food Systems Assessment, Legal Assessment, Modelling of cost-effective investments to support agrifood systems transformation, etc.). He will be instrumental in seeking coherence and convergence of existing policy frameworks, minimizing duplication, identifying trade-offs and mapping sectoral and stakeholders’ actions required to implement transformative food systems actions of existing programmes and plans.
Qualified non-recruited candidates would be included in the Governance and Policy support team roster and considered for future similar assignments.
In line with recently approved FAO Country Programming Framework for Uganda, and taking into consideration the outcomes of the National Food Systems Dialogues and the identified pathway for food systems transformation presented by the Government of Uganda at the UNFSS, the Expert, under the direct technical supervision of the Team Lead/Policy, and the overall supervision of the FMM/GLO/150/MUL coordinator , the expert shall assist the GoU to carry out a strategic policy and political economy analysis and modelling particularly looking at key overarching framework policies including the National Development Plan (NDP) III, the National programmes on Agro-Industrialization, Human Capital Development, and Community Mobilisation and Mind-set Change, the Uganda Nutrition Action Plan (UNAP) II 2020/2021-2024/2025 and the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the National Strategy Towards Zero Hunger 2021-2030.
As reflected in the documents consolidated during the Uganda’s NFSDs, the UNFSS and the National Pathway and Commitment to food systems transformation, there is a need for strengthening the evidence base and technical support to guide the transformation process, operationalizing commitments into action, and ensuring harmonization of relevant policies, as well as inter-institutional, inter-sectoral and multi-stakeholder coordination.
With priorities and duties assigned across different institutions, and regulated by unconnected legislations and policies, there is risk for food systems actions and recommendations emerged from the NFSDs and UNFSS to be dispersed among various ongoing national plans and strategic programmes. To address this gap, a strategic analysis is required to capitalize on a number of strategic policy, legal and institutional instruments across different sectors that address several issues related to food systems, food security and nutrition. Hence, it is of the essence that the strategic analysis identify, map, quantify and evaluate issues covered in existing frameworks and those that are outstanding to consider in the National Food Systems Transformation Plan and evaluate roles and potential contributions of concerned institutions and non-governmental partners. The strategic analysis shall also stress the need for better coherence and convergence towards SDGs and other GoU development strategic targets in line with the NDPs and Vision 2040.
Tasks and responsibilities
4.1. Food Systems Transformation and governance
• Ensure smooth follow up and support of policy and political economy analysis conducted in partnership with Kiel University under the project FMM/150/GLO/MUL.
• Support the consolidation of governance analysis, including stakeholder analysis and political analysis for identification of most effective policy mix supporting food systems transformation
• Provide technical assistance to the GoU, in particular to the OPM, MAAIF and NPA, to identifyy the most effective inter-institutional and multi-stakeholder coordination and participation mechanisms to support the Food systems Tranformation Agenda in Uganda.
• Provide technical support to the GoU’s Food Systems Strategic Analysis to consolidate policy actions under NDP III and other relevant policy frameworks in order to inform the Food Systems Transformation Plan (FSTP).
• Lead organization of validation workshops for endorsement and operationalization of results emerging from policy, governance and political economy analysis conducted under the project.
• Coordinate with FAOUG focal point for Hand in Hand Initiative to ensure linkages and complementarity between the two projects;
• Advise the GoU in harmonizing and coordinating existing policy frameworks on Food and Nutrition Security under the NDP III – including but not limited to Agro-industrialization programme, Regional Development Programmes, National Strategy towards Zero Hunger, Uganda Nutrition Action Plan II and the Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Policy- seeking policy coherence and convergence towards reaching all 17 SDGs by 2030.
• Assist the GoU in the Development of a evidence-based Food Systems Transformation Plan aligned to national identified priorities and key policies and programmes including, the Food System Summit pathway, the National Development Plan (NDP III 2021-2025) and other relevant policy frameworks.
4.2. Advocacy and communication
• In collaboration with the Governance, Partnership and Food Systems officer, assist FAO to strengthen its advocacy work on FNS and Agrifood Systems Transformation. In particular, reaching out to the Uganda Parliamentary Alliance for Food and Nutrition Security (UPAN-FNS), the Parliamentary Select Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, The Food Right Alliance (FRA), the CEPROHT, CONSENT and other CSO has to advance the Agenda of Agrifood System Transformation trough advocacy to build resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems in Uganda.
• Plan, organize and participate in meetings, capacity development activities and training workshops, including around institutional capacities to strengthen integrated action and implementation, and oversees the development of related materials and reports;
• Prepare reports to FAO, the donor and the National Government on progress achievement and issues related to project implementation; ensuring continuous communication and information flow between national stakeholders and HQ project coordinator and technical task force.
• Perform any other required duty related to project implementation.
• Perform any other duty as instructed by the FAOR
Minimum Requirements
• University degree in political sciences, policy and governance, political economy, development economics, agronomy, food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture and natural resources management, social sciences, and related field or proven relevant experience in the above fields;
• Seven years of relevant experience in policy advice and analysis relating to food security, nutrition, agriculture and rural development, and food system governance and political economy. Demonstrated experience in working on similar assignments in particular in African countries;
• Working knowledge of English and limited knowledge of one of the other FAO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable;
• Extent and relevance of experience in political economy, governance, policy analysis and advise related to sustainable food systems, food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture and rural development;
• Extent and relevance of experience in working with intergovernmental bodies, multi-stakeholder alliances, and multidisciplinary teams in particular in Africa.
• Extent and relevance of experience in strengthening inclusive local and national food supply, in particular market and value chain development
• Conversant with agrifood systems transformation work
• Demonstrated experience in political economy analysis and support to governance and multi-stakeholder participation in policy making
• Demonstrated experience working on trade-policy related matters
• Very good understanding of Food Security, Nutrition and Health-policy related matters
• Demonstrated experience and carrying out policy Dialogue with Government and other relevant stakeholders
• Highly analytical and writing skills (Concept Note, Policy Brief and Project Proposals, etc.)
• Good understanding of International Development Architecture and Aid Modalities
• Demonstrated capacity in data use and analysis
Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency
Additional information
• FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
• Please note that FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from an educational institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For more information, visit the FAO employment website
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. Subject to certain exemptions, vaccination against COVID-19 will in principle be required. Vaccination status will be verified as part of the medical clearance process.
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