Terms of Reference for Researcher

Background and Objectives:

Somali Public Agenda (SPA) is implementing an EU-funded project titled “Increased Opportunities for Somali Citizens’ Scrutiny of Fiscal and Financial Governance.” This initiative seeks to empower citizens by providing them with a platform to articulate their views, priorities, and concerns to District Councils. The overarching goal is to enhance citizen engagement in public financial management issues while equipping both citizens and District Council members with the necessary knowledge regarding Public Finance Management (PFM).

The project is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and active participation in governance, ensuring that the voices of Somali citizens, particularly in marginalized areas, are heard in decision-making processes. Through this project, citizens will gain access to relevant information about District Council activities, challenges, and priorities, thereby fostering a more informed community.

The project activities will be implemented in three target districts across three Federal Member States, including Galmudug & Puntland. To ensure the success of this initiative, SPA is seeking to recruit 2 knowledgeable and skilled researchers based in Galmudug and Puntland who possess a strong understanding of the local context.

Roles & Responsibilities:

1.⁠ ⁠Research Framework Development:

·         Design a comprehensive research framework that outlines the objectives, methods, and anticipated outcomes of the research in the respective districts.

·         Develop a robust methodology tailored to the specific needs of the project, ensuring cultural relevance and sensitivity.

2.⁠ ⁠Data Collection Plan:

·         Develop a detailed research framework,methadology and data collection plan to gather qualitative and quantitative data in the context of SPA requirements

3.⁠ ⁠Data Analysis:

·            Analyze and interpret collected data using appropriate statistical and qualitative analytical tools.

·            Employ triangulation methods to ensure validity and reliability of findings.

4.⁠ ⁠Stakeholder Engagement:

·         Actively engage with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and local community members to gather insights and facilitate discussions.

·         Foster collaborative relationships to enhance community trust and participation.

5.⁠ ⁠Key Informant Interviews (KII):

·         Conduct 10-12 Key Informant Interviews in the selected district to gather in-depth perspectives on the public finance management landscape.

·         Ensure interviews are conducted ethically and confidentially, respecting participants' rights and perspectives.

6.⁠ ⁠Final Research Report:

·         Produce a comprehensive final research report that includes key findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations for the District Councils and stakeholders.

·         Present findings in a clear, accessible format that promotes understanding and facilitates discussion among various audiences.

Qualifications & Experience:

1.      A Bachelor’s or preferably Master’s degree in social sciences or a related field.

2.      ⁠ Demonstrated understanding of the research process, including data collection and analysis.

3.      Have knowledge of data science concepts and tools

4.      Have a minimum of 2 years of experience in research

5.      Fluency in English, both verbal and written, with excellent communication and presentation skills.

6.      ⁠Familiarity with the local context of Galmudug/Puntland and understanding of public finance management and other related matters is highly desirable.

7.      Proven report writing and communication skills

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications to https://somalipublicagenda.org/careers/

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further discussions.

Closing date for receiving applications is April 23,2026.