1. Background

Agro-ecology and sustainable seed systems are critical for fostering climate-resilient agriculture, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring food sovereignty. A national-level (Anbar, Salah din governorates of Iraq) participatory research study is required to explore existing practices, identify challenges and opportunities, and provide actionable recommendations to scale up agro-ecological practices and seed multiplication systems.

This research will be conducted in collaboration with farmers, agricultural institutions, and key stakeholders to ensure that findings reflect the lived experiences of farming communities while aligning with national policy priorities and international best practices.

2. Objectives

The primary objectives of this consultancy are:

1. To map and document existing agro-ecological practices and seed multiplication systems across diverse agro-ecological zones (Anbar, Salah din).
2. To assess the socio-economic and environmental impacts of these practices on smallholder farmers, including gender-differentiated impacts.
3. To identify barriers to scaling these practices and recommend strategies. 
4. To develop policy and programmatic recommendations for stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and farmer organizations.

3. Scope of Work

1. Desk Review:
   • Review existing literature, policies, and practices related to agro-ecology and seed multiplication in the national context.
   • Analyze regional and global best practices for comparative insights.
2. Participatory Research:
   • Design participatory research methodologies, including surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs).
   • Engage diverse stakeholders, including smallholder farmers, women, youth, indigenous communities, agricultural research institutions, and policymakers.
3. Fieldwork:
   • Conduct field visits to selected agro-ecological zones to collect qualitative and quantitative data.
   • Ensure representation of diverse voices, especially marginalized groups, in the research process.
4. Data Analysis and Reporting:
   • Analyze data using qualitative and quantitative methods.
   • Develop a comprehensive report, including findings, analysis, case studies, and recommendations.
5. Knowledge Sharing:
   • Present findings through stakeholder validation workshops.
   • Incorporate feedback into the final report.

4. Deliverables[FA1] 

1. Inception Report:
   A detailed report outlining the proposed methodology, work plan, and tools to be utilized for the assignment. This report must be submitted within two weeks of signing the contract.
2. Interim Report:
   A report summarizing preliminary findings from the fieldwork, offering insights into initial observations and key trends.
3. Submission of Assessment Data and Documentation:
   All documents related to field assessments, including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and questionnaires, must be shared with Oxfam. This ensures consistency between the collected data and the findings presented in the reports.
4. Final Research Report:
   A comprehensive report that includes detailed research findings along with actionable policy and programmatic recommendations.
5. Presentation Materials:
   Preparation and submission of presentation materials for stakeholder workshops in both Arabic and English.
6. .

5. Timeframe

The consultancy is expected to be completed within 2 months from the start date.

6. Consultant Profile

The ideal consultant(s) should have:

1. Advanced degree in agriculture, rural development, or a related field.
2. Proven experience in agro-ecology, seed systems, and participatory research methodologies.
3. Strong analytical and writing skills, with a track record of producing high-quality reports.
4. Knowledge of socio-economic and gender dimensions in agriculture.
5. Fluency in English. Arabic expertise would be an asset. 

7. Reporting and Coordination

The consultant will report to the Project Manager and work closely with Oxfam’s technical and field staff.

8. Application Process

Interested consultants should submit:

1. A technical proposal, including a detailed methodology and work plan (5 pages excluding CVs and experience, previous work).
2. A financial proposal with a breakdown of costs.
3. CV(s) of the consultant(s), highlighting relevant experience.
4. Examples of previous similar work.

 [FA1]Can we ask them to attached the data collected from field to verify and confirm the information provided in the report. 

TOR LINK: https://oxfam.box.com/s/obao7703el5hv70otb1bopim67q5z2zc 

The interested parties should send all the required documents listed above to the address irqconsultancy@oxfam.org.uk.

Subject: Agro-ecological practices and seed multiplication systems

Deadline for submission of offers:

The deadline for submitting the offers is: 16 Jan, 2025 (17:00 hr. Iraq Time.).