REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI)

COUNTRY:                 Federal Republic of Somalia (FGS)

NAME OF PROJECT: De-Risking, Inclusion and Value Enhancement of pastoral economies in the Horn of Africa Project (DRIVE)

 PROJECT ID:              P176517.

Assignment Title:         ICT Advisor DRIVE Project.

Individual/Firm:          Individual Consultant

Deadline:                       16th May 2026

Reference No.:              SO-MOF-529702-CS-INDV

The Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of De-Risking, Inclusion and Value Enhancement of pastoral economies in the Horn of Africa Project (DRIVE) and intends to apply part of the proceeds of the above project to finance the position of ICT Advisor DRIVE Project.

To ensure the effective implementation and management of the  National Single Window System (NSWS) and the Trade Information Portal, the Project is seeking an experienced and qualified ICT Advisor to take on this critical role. The ICT Advisor will be responsible for overseeing the planning, development, implementation, and maintenance of these systems, ensuring their alignment with national policies, international standards, and best practices in trade facilitation.

The ICT Advisor will work closely with various stakeholders within the ministry, including relevant departments, technical teams, and trade partners. Through their expertise and leadership, the ICT Advisor will drive the successful adoption and utilization of the National Single Window System (NSWS) and Trade Information Portal, transforming trade operations, promoting efficiency, and fostering economic growth in Somalia.

As part of this initiative, the Project is committed to hiring an ICT Specialist with a strong background in systems development, project management, and trade facilitation. The incumbent should possess extensive knowledge of trade processes, customs regulations, and international standards, along with proven experience in delivering successful ICT projects. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, the ICT Specialist will shape the future of trade in Somalia, positioning the country as a regional leader in trade facilitation.

The ICT Advisor will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the National Single Window System (NSWS) and Trade Information Portal for the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Somalia. the ICT Specialist will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of these systems, ensuring their seamless integration with existing trade processes and systems.

The ICT Advisor will play also a fundemetal role on The Livestock Information and Traceability System (LITS) as it is a digital platform designed to register, monitor, and track livestock throughout the value chain. It enables accurate identification and movement tracing of animals from farms to markets and export points. By improving transparency and disease surveillance, LITS supports Somalia’s compliance with international livestock trade and health standards. Also The Livestock Market Information System (LMIS) which is a digital platform that collects, analyzes, and shares real-time market data for livestock across key markets and regions. It provides information on livestock prices, market volumes, demand trends, and trade flows to help producers, traders, exporters, and policymakers make informed decisions. And finally, the support given to the upcoming Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) is a digital platform used by national standards bodies to manage and automate their core functions, including standards development, metrology, conformity assessment, and certification services. It centralizes data, streamlines workflows, and improves traceability and access to services for businesses and regulators. For SOBS, IMIS enhances efficiency, transparency, and coordination across all quality infrastructure operations.

Duration: The proposed duration for the assignment is Twelve Months (12) calendar months from starts date.

The detailed Terms of Refence (TOR) for the assignment can be found at the following website:

https://moci.gov.so/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ICT-Adviser-ToR-DRIVE.pdf,  

Key Tasks and Responsibility

The ICT Advisor will be responsible for the following key activities and tasks in relation to the National Single Window System (NSWS), Trade Information Portal (STIP), Logistics Management Information System (LMIS), Integrated Market Information System (IMIS), and Legal/Regulatory Inform       ation and Trade System (LITS):

Conducting a thorough analysis of existing trade and information systems:

• Identify current workflows, procedures, and documentation requirements across NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the existing systems and trade processes.
• Conduct stakeholder consultations to gather input and understand the requirements and expectations for each system.

Developing a detailed project plan and implementation strategy:

• Define the scope and objectives for the implementation and integration of NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Develop a comprehensive project plan with timelines, milestones, and deliverables for all systems.
• Create an efficient implementation strategy outlining the steps and activities required for successful deployment and system integration.

Managing and coordinating the efforts of a project team:

• Recruit and manage a team of experts, including IT professionals and subject matter specialists for NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Allocate tasks and responsibilities to team members based on their skills and expertise.
• Maintain effective communication channels within the team, ensuring collaboration and knowledge sharing across all systems.

Overseeing the technical aspects of the project:

• Collaborate with IT teams to ensure NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS are implemented using the most suitable technologies and platforms.
• Develop technical specifications and requirements for system development, customization, and interoperability.
• Ensure compliance with industry best practices, security standards, and data protection regulations.

Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders:

• Engage relevant departments, government agencies, and trade partners to understand their needs and requirements for each system.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and maintain effective communication throughout the implementation process.
• Facilitate workshops, seminars, and training sessions to raise awareness and gather feedback on all systems.

Providing training and support to end-users:

• Develop comprehensive training programs and materials for end-users of NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Conduct training workshops to ensure users are familiar with system functionality and processes.
• Provide ongoing technical support to address challenges and system issues.

Monitoring the performance of the systems:

• Continuously monitor and evaluate NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS against defined key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Conduct regular system audits to identify potential areas for improvement.
• Address technical issues or bottlenecks to ensure smooth operation and system availability.

Conducting regular evaluations:

• Develop mechanisms to assess the impact and effectiveness of NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Prepare periodic progress reports and present findings to management and relevant stakeholders.
• Provide recommendations for system enhancements and continuous improvements.

Keeping abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends:

• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in ICT, trade facilitation, and market information systems.
• Explore possibilities for integrating emerging technologies into NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS.
• Share knowledge and insights with stakeholders to promote innovation and continuous improvement.

More specifically:

 Livestock Identification and Traceability System (LITS)

• Diagnostic and design:

• Define and implement functional requirements, data standards, and governance (unique ID schema, event model, movement recording, health/lab interface, audit trails).

• Develop  and implement enterprise architecture and data model (central registry, role-based access, API layer, offline-first/mobile capture).

• Technology and implementation:

• Design interfaces to veterinary services, labs, border posts, feedlots/slaughterhouses, and residue testing databases.

• Policy and operating model:

• Advise on regulatory instruments (mandatory tagging/movement reporting, data privacy, compliance), SOPs, and institutional roles.

• Develop user manuals, training materials, and helpdesk procedures.

• Rollout and sustainability:

• Pilot in selected regions/value chains; iterate based on user feedback.

• Define KPIs (coverage, compliance, data quality, timeliness) and monitoring framework.

National Single Window (NSW) Integration Data exchange and interoperability:

• Map required permits, certificates (e.g., animal health, veterinary export), and risk assessment data to NSW services.

• Specify data exchange standards (REST/JSON, XML, UN/CEFACT) and authentication/authorization (PKI, OAuth2).

• Process digitization:

• Re-engineer workflows for online applications, e-payment, e-signatures, issuance, and verifiable digital certificates (with QR/secure hashes).

• Propose master data management (establishment registry, officer registry) and service catalog.

• Governance and cybersecurity:

• Define SLAs, data sharing MoUs, and incident response plans.

• Ensure compliance with national cybersecurity and data protection frameworks.

Livestock Market Information System (LMIS)

• System design:

• Implement and coordinate data collection methodology (market enumerators, trader submissions, integration with digital platforms), sampling, validation rules, and frequency.

• Architect data pipeline (ETL), analytics dashboards, and public dissemination channels (web, USSD/SMS, mobile apps).

• Operations and quality assurance:

• Implement SOPs for data capture, plausibility checks, outlier handling, and version control.

• Introduce feedback loops with market actors; publish metadata and methodology notes.

• Inclusion and access:

• Design multilingual, low-bandwidth user interfaces; incorporate accessibility features.

• Establish open data APIs and licensing for transparent reuse.

 Cross-cutting ICT Advisory

• Infrastructure readiness assessment (connectivity, power, device availability) and mitigation measures (offline sync, solar kits).
• Cybersecurity baseline and controls (encryption at rest/in transit, key management, auditing, role-based access).
• Change management and capacity building:

• Training plans for officials, vets, enumerators, and farmers; digital literacy modules.

• Communications strategy to drive adoption and compliance.

The ICT Specialist will be accountable for delivering these responsibilities efficiently and effectively, ensuring the successful implementation, integration, and continuous improvement of NSWS, STIP, LMIS, IMIS, and LITS in alignment with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's goals and objectives.

Selection Criteria: The selection will be based on qualification, experience and skills of the candidate and followed by an interview. The qualifications, experience and competencies include:

·         Minimum Master’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related academic and work experience.

·         Proven experience in ICT systems and implementation, with at least 5 years of relevant work experience. Experience in trade facilitation or single window projects will be highly beneficial.

·         Strong understanding of trade processes, customs regulations, and international standards related to trade facilitation, such as the World Trade Organization's Trade Facilitation Agreement.

·         Proficiency in programming languages and database management, with hands-on experience in system integration.

• 8–10 years in designing and implementing sector ICT systems, preferably in agriculture/livestock.
• Proven experience with animal identification/traceability and alignment to international guidance (WOAH/OIE, Codex/food safety) a plus.
• Hands-on with NSW or similar trade facilitation platforms and government interoperability frameworks a plus
• Building LMIS or similar market/price information systems; mobile-first, low-connectivity contexts a plus.
• Systems integration (APIs, microservices), cybersecurity, data governance.
• Experience working with government, donors, and multi-stakeholder environments; strong change management.

·          

·         Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. Ability to effectively prioritize tasks and allocate resources for timely project execution.

·         Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders at various levels.

·         Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative, with a high level of self-motivation and commitment to achieving targets and objectives.

·         Up-to-date knowledge of relevant ICT frameworks, industry best practices, and security protocols.

·         Familiarity with emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics, and blockchain will be an advantage.

·         Ability to adapt to changing requirements and dynamic work environments, demonstrating flexibility and resilience.

·         Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of Somali language will be an added advantage.

·         Support the integration and interoperability of systems across the DRIVE Project, including the Single Window, Customs System, LITS, LMIS, IMIS, and other related platforms.

·         Experience providing technical support to LITS, LMIS, IMIS, and related digital livestock and market systems.

·         Experience in developing and rolling out digital certification systems, including the Digital Unified Export Certificate.

·         Experience in strengthening trade portals and supporting National Single Window (NSWS) implementation.

·         Ability to integrate and ensure interoperability across multiple systems (NSWS, customs, LITS, LMIS, IMIS).

·         Strong understanding of ICT project management, system integration, and digital trade facilitation in government or large-scale projects.

The Ministry of Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the above-mentioned Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services and furnish the Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Attention of interested Consultants is drawn to section III, para 3.14,3.16 & 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers: Procurement in Investment Projects Financing Goods, Works, Non -Consulting and Consulting Services dated in September 2023 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. 

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant method set out in the World Bank Procurement Regulations.

Interested Consultant may obtain further information (in person or by e-mail) at the address below during office hours from 8.00 a.m.– 4.00 p.m. Saturday to Thursday except on public holidays.

Deadline for submission: Expressions of interest should be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by e-mail: [email protected],  ) by 16th May  2026 4:00PM. local Time.

Attention

Project Coordinator,

DRIVE Project,

Ministry of Finance - Federal Government of Somalia

Shangani District - Mogadishu, Somalia

Email Address: [email protected],