Terms of Reference (ToR) for Consultancy to Develop a 5-Year Strategic Plan

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION (ADO

   Terms of Reference (ToR) for Consultancy to Develop a 5-Year Strategic Plan for Agricultural Development Organization (ADO)

Date: 07th September

1. About ADO

Agricultural Development Organization (ADO) is a well-established non-governmental organization that has been at the forefront of rural development and agricultural sustainability since its inception in 1993. Over the years, ADO has gained significant recognition for its commitment to improving the livelihoods of rural communities and its dedication to addressing pressing issues in the agriculture and development sectors.

ADO was originally founded in response to a dire need - the devastating aftermath of the civil war in Somalia and Somaliland. In the 1990s, this war left a trail of destruction, including the loss of homes, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure in many communities. Witnessing the suffering and challenges faced by the returnee population in the aftermath of the conflict, ADO embarked on its mission to provide relief and rehabilitation support. Its initial focus was to assist those who had lost their homes and means of sustenance during these turbulent times.

Since its establishment, ADO has not only fulfilled its initial mandate of relief and rehabilitation but has also successfully transitioned into broader development activities. The organization has diversified its portfolio, expanding into early recovery initiatives, and pioneering sustainable agricultural practices. This transformation was driven by ADO's unwavering commitment to create lasting, positive change in the communities it serves.

ADO's operational footprint has also expanded over the years. The organization has its central Head Office in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, and regional branch offices in strategic locations, including Burao, Borama, and Erigavo. These regional branches are strategically positioned in the Togdheer, Awdal, and Sanaag regions, ensuring that ADO's presence is felt where it matters most.

Additionally, ADO actively participates in local umbrella groups, namely, NAGAAD, SOLPAF, and SONSEF. These affiliations reflect ADO's dedication to collaboration and partnership within the development sector, fostering synergies and knowledge sharing with like-minded organizations.

As ADO has evolved and grown, it has continued to uphold its core values and principles while adapting to the changing needs and challenges in the regions it serves. Now, in 2023 ADO is embarking on a new phase of its journey. It seeks to develop a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan that will guide its operations and impact in the coming years. This strategic plan will build upon ADO's legacy of service, aligning its mission and vision with its operational focus areas, and setting forth a clear roadmap for the organization's future endeavours.

The 5-year strategic plan is not just a document; it represents ADO's commitment to realizing its vision of vibrant, resilient, and sustainable rural communities. It is a testament to ADO's dedication to enhancing the well-being of the people it serves, promoting equitable development, and making a lasting impact.

In light of these factors, ADO is seeking the services of a qualified consultant or consultancy firm to facilitate the development of this pivotal strategic plan, leveraging their expertise and experience to chart a course for ADO's continued success and growth in the service of its communities.

1. Objective of the Consultancy

The primary objective of this consultancy is to facilitate the development of a 5-year strategic plan for ADO, aligning its mission and vision with its operational focus areas and goals. The strategic plan should provide a clear roadmap for ADO's activities, outcomes, and impact over the specified period.

1. Scope of Work

The selected consultant/firm will be responsible for the following tasks:

3.1 Situation Analysis:

• Conduct a thorough review and analysis of ADO's historical data, organizational structure, current programs, and previous strategic plans.
• Analyse the external environment, including socio-economic, political, and environmental factors, and conduct a stakeholder analysis.

3.2 Strategic Planning Workshops:

• Organize and facilitate strategic planning workshops involving ADO's Board of Directors, staff, and key stakeholders to define the organization's strategic direction.

3.3 Vision, Mission, and Values:

• Facilitate the process of reaffirming or refining ADO's vision, mission, and values statements to ensure alignment with its focus areas.

3.4. Goal Setting:

• Work with ADO to establish clear strategic goals and objectives for the next 5 years in line with its focus areas.

3.5 Strategy Development:

Develop strategies and action plans to achieve each of the established goals, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and timelines.

3.6 Resource Planning:

• Collaborate with ADO to outline resource requirements, including financial, human, and technological resources, for the successful implementation of the strategic plan.

3.7 Risk Assessment:

• Identify potential risks and challenges that may affect the plan's implementation and propose mitigation strategies.

3.8 Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan document that is clear, concise, and actionable.

1. Deliverables

The consultant/firm is expected to deliver the following key outputs:

• Draft 5-Year Strategic Plan for ADO for review and feedback
• Final 5-Year Strategic Plan document incorporating feedback and revisions, including an executive summary.

1. Timeline

• The consultancy is expected to be completed within 2 months from the contract commencement date.

The consultant/firm should have:

• Master's degree in policy or strategies development, public administration, management, social sciences, or a related technical field
• 8+ years proven experience in facilitating the development of strategic plans for non-profit organizations.
• A strong background in development and social change.
• Excellent knowledge of the socio-economic and environmental context in Somalia and Somaliland.
• Strong analytical, facilitation, and report-writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

1. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

• Relevant experience and expertise (30%)
• Methodology and work plan (30%)
• Financial proposal (40%)

Interested consultants/firms are invited to submit their proposals, including detailed information on methodology, qualifications, work plan, and financial proposal, please send required documents to [email protected] and Cc [email protected]  with the subject line of email   for Consultancy to Develop a 5-Year Strategic Plan for Agricultural Development Organization (ADO)   Application  No later than  by 21th September, 2023 at 1:30pm. Any application not meeting the above will not be reviewed.