Conducting Market and Value Chain Assessments for Target Plant Species

1. Background of the Area.

Binga District, located in Matabeleland North Province- Zimbabwe is a traditionally arid region and home to several plant species of significance importance. These plant species hold potential for socio-cultural and economic values that can be optimally realized through sustainable use. However, limited information exists on ethnobotanical value chain dynamics and market potential surrounding these species. This assessment seeks to understand the current value chain linkages and market opportunities for the sustainable use of plant species, particularly focusing on Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) and Common reed (Phragmites australis). The species’ contribution and potential ecosystem services especially concerning catchment restoration will also be profiled.

This consultancy is a deliverable under WWF’s Water is Woman (Manzi mwanakazi**)** pilot project which aims to integrate Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in wetland management by strengthening the capacity of women in Binga.

2. Objectives of the Assignment
The key objectives of this assessment are:

• To analyze the market demand, supply, and competitiveness of wetland plant species, with a focus on Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) and the Common reed (Phragmites australis).
• To map the value chain of wetland species, identifying key actors, value addition opportunities, and bottlenecks.
• To assess economic and socio-cultural opportunities for smallholder farmers and local communities.
• To profile ecosystem services associated with Tamarind and Common Reed in Binga.
• To recommend strategic interventions/models for improving market access, enhancing value addition, efficacy, quality compliance and ensuring economic and ecosystem sustainability.

3. Scope of Work
The consultant(s) will be expected to carry out the following tasks:

• Conduct a situational analysis of the current use and commercialization of plant species in Binga, with a focus on Tamarind and the Common reed.
• Perform a market analysis to identify potential local, and regional markets for target plant species.
• Identify and assess the key actors in the value chain, including producers, processors, traders, and consumers.
• Analyze value chain dynamics, including production volumes, value addition processes, and market access barriers.
• Provide an economic analysis of the value chain, assessing profitability, potential income streams, and sustainability.
• Develop recommendations for enhancing the value chain, including policy suggestions, potential partnerships, capacity building needs, and investment opportunities.
• Prepare a comprehensive report on the findings, including strategic recommendations for the commercialization of wetland species.

4. Deliverables

• Inception report detailing methodology, work plan, and timeline.
• Draft report outlining key findings from the market and value chain analysis.
• Final report, incorporating feedback, with comprehensive analysis and recommendations.

5. Duration of the Assignment
The assessment is expected to be conducted over a period of 14 days, starting from 18 November 2024.

6. Required Qualifications
The consultant(s) should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Educational background:
  • Advanced degree in Economics, Marketing, Business Strategy, Agribusiness, Natural Resource Management, or related fields.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in conducting market and value chain assessments, particularly in the agricultural or natural resources sectors.
  • Proven track record of working with rural communities and understanding of local livelihoods in similar contexts.
  • Experience in sustainable development, natural resource management, and commercialization of non-timber forest products or wetland species is an advantage.
• Skills:
  • Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable recommendations.
  • Experience in Monitoring and Evaluation of economic development projects.
  • Expertise in developing marketing strategies for natural products, including market linkage facilitation.
  • Strong report writing and presentation skills.
  • Knowledge of the Binga area and its socio-economic context is an asset.