Trees for the Future (TREES) is seeking an Assistant Project Officer (APO) to lead the implementation of the Forest Garden Approach within the Lake Victoria Agroforestry Carbon Project in Kenya. The APO will be responsible for sensitizing, recruiting, contracting, and developing the capacity of smallholder farmers to ensure effective project outcomes. Reporting to the Project Officer, the APO ensures that all activities align with Forest Garden model standards and project timelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Farmer Mobilization: Scout and document potential project expansion areas; mobilize and recruit farmers for the Lake Victoria Watershed Agroforestry Carbon Project.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Support dialogues and consultative meetings with project farmers and organize them into functional groups.
- Training and Development: Provide technical skills training on the Forest Garden Approach agroforestry model based on the TREES training framework.
- Extension Services: Conduct field visits, provide extension services, and coordinate the establishment of Forest Gardens.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Perform monthly data collection, participate in Field Area Measurements, and assist in M&E activities to ensure data accuracy.
- Record Management: Maintain and update farmer records using the TREES Taroworks data collection application.
- Advocacy and Support: Organize monthly Lead Farmer meetings and provide advisory services on best farming practices.
- Carbon Contract Management: Sensitize farmers on carbon contract requirements, administer contracts, and monitor compliance.
- Reporting: Collaborate with Project Officers to provide data for project reports, material acquisition plans, and training schedules.
Who You Are
- An enthusiastic advocate for TREES’ mission to improve livelihoods through agroforestry.
- A proactive problem solver who adapts quickly to new environments and difficult terrains.
- A self-driven professional capable of executing tasks with minimal supervision.
- A collaborative team player dedicated to collective success and analytical planning.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Education: Undergraduate degree or Diploma in General Agriculture, Horticulture, Agroforestry, Environmental Science, Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Economics, Natural Resource Management, Forestry, or a related field.
- Experience: At least one year of demonstrated experience in agriculture, preferably in agroforestry or sustainable agriculture.
- Technical Skills: Experience in participatory training and facilitation; proficiency in using smartphone applications for data collection.
- Licensing: A valid motorcycle license with safe riding experience on and off-road is mandatory.
- Languages: Fluency in spoken and written English and Swahili. Proficiency in local languages relevant to the Lake Victoria region is an added advantage.
- Knowledge: Understanding of Nature-Based Solutions and Carbon credit project requirements is preferred.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the Trees for the Future application portal on Rippling via the following link: https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1169559. Ensure your application highlights your experience in sustainable agriculture and community mobilization.
