To define the purpose and objectives of the consultancy engagement, ensuring alignment with the client’s strategic needs and project goals. This role involves conducting a thorough needs assessment to identify key challenges, opportunities, and priorities, which will inform the development of tailored solutions. The consultant will collaborate with stakeholders to refine project scope, establish clear deliverables, and set measurable outcomes to drive successful implementation. Additionally, the position requires documenting findings, presenting recommendations, and securing stakeholder buy-in to facilitate smooth project execution.
The objective of this consultancy engagement is to provide expert advisory services aimed at addressing specific organizational challenges or opportunities through specialized knowledge and strategic insights.
The East African Community (EAC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are seeking a consultant with strong research, analytical, and policy development skills in migrant return and reintegration to conduct an in-depth study on existing return and reintegration policies, practices, gaps, and opportunities across the EAC region. This study aims to inform the creation of a regional framework focused on the return and reintegration of stranded migrants within the EAC. The framework will establish unified standards, guiding principles, and coordinated methodologies to be collectively adopted by EAC Partner States in managing the governance of return and sustainable reintegration of migrants. Its objectives include reinforcing regional collaboration, improving policy alignment, and advancing rights-based, safe, orderly, and dignified return and reintegration processes in accordance with relevant international, continental, and regional legal and policy frameworks.
To achieve clearly defined goals, candidates will be responsible for executing specific initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, driving revenue growth, and improving customer satisfaction metrics. The role demands meticulous attention to detail in monitoring project milestones, analyzing performance data, and reporting progress through structured assessments. Proficiency in collaborating with cross-functional teams, including marketing, sales, and IT departments, is essential to align efforts and maximize collective impact. Strong analytical abilities are required to interpret market trends, evaluate competitive positioning, and recommend data-driven strategies to optimize outcomes. Additionally, the position necessitates a proactive approach to identifying process improvements, mitigating risks, and ensuring adherence to best practices across all assigned responsibilities.
The consultancy aims to achieve targeted outcomes by delivering specialized services that include conducting detailed research, performing comprehensive data analysis, and developing actionable recommendations tailored to meet the client’s strategic needs. Key responsibilities involve collaborating with stakeholders to identify critical challenges, devising innovative solutions, and ensuring the implementation of effective strategies. Additionally, the consultant will be expected to prepare thorough reports, present findings to relevant parties, and provide ongoing support to facilitate seamless project execution.
Conduct a thorough assessment of current practices, policies, legal frameworks, and institutional structures governing the return and reintegration of stranded migrants across EAC Partner States to pinpoint gaps, redundancies, and potential enhancements.
Conduct an exhaustive and inclusive research initiative to shape the development of the EAC Regional Framework focusing on the return and reintegration of stranded migrants.
Conduct National Consultations across all EAC Partner States, engaging key stakeholders throughout the process.
Organize an online meeting with Partner States’ experts to endorse the findings of the study report.
Upon securing approval of the Validation Report by the Partner States, the task entails formulating a suitable outcome document—such as a policy framework or policy—to effectively address the intervention.
Perform an in-depth situational analysis to assess migration patterns, underlying factors, obstacles, and occurrences that impact return and reintegration within the East African Community (EAC) region.
Oversee and execute a diverse range of duties, ensuring adherence to established protocols while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency. Identify process improvements and implement solutions to enhance productivity, mitigate risks, and optimize workflows. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align on project goals, timelines, and deliverables, fostering collaboration and accountability. Compile and analyze data to generate actionable insights, supporting informed decision-making and strategic planning. Manage stakeholder expectations through clear communication and timely updates, balancing priorities in a dynamic work environment. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, industry regulations, and quality assurance standards throughout all operational activities.
SCOPE OF WORK
The Consultant will be tasked with executing the following responsibilities as part of the assignment:
Collaborate closely with the EAC Secretariat and the IOM Regional Office for East, Horn, and Southern Africa via a joint technical team to oversee and assist the consultancy process, ensuring seamless coordination with Partner States and the organization of consultative meetings.
Compile and deliver an Inception Report to both the EAC Secretariat and the IOM Regional Office, detailing the proposed methodology, work plan, timelines, and strategy for engaging partner states.
Conduct an in-depth analysis of the National, Regional, Continental, and Global legal policies and institutional frameworks that regulate the return and reintegration of stranded migrants across the EAC Partner States. The objective is to identify gaps, overlaps, and opportunities for alignment or harmonization, followed by the preparation of a comprehensive report.
Deliver dependable data and actionable insights that empower national authorities and international organizations to formulate robust and effective response strategies.
Gather and synthesize pertinent data to support proactive and reactive decision-making at both regional and national levels.
Perform an in-depth assessment of existing migration patterns, key factors, and obstacles influencing the return and reintegration processes of stranded migrants within the East African Community (EAC) region.
We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team for a project-based role with a defined duration, timeline, and payment structure. The successful candidate will complete the assignment within the agreed-upon timeframe, adhering to key milestones and deliverables as outlined in the project plan. Compensation will be disbursed according to the prearranged schedule, ensuring timely and transparent financial transactions throughout the engagement.
The consultancy engagement will span a maximum of 7 months, contingent upon the consultant’s mutually agreed fee, with the start date aligned to the contract signing. The anticipated timeline for the consultancy extends from June 2026 to January 2027. An extension for a follow-up consultancy beyond this period remains a potential option. The outlined dates are provisional and may be adjusted in response to evolving process requirements.
Payment
Upon successful completion and approval of each step, decisions will be made accordingly.
Deliverables
Upon contract execution, the Consultant will be responsible for delivering the specified outputs as outlined in the agreement.
A comprehensive inception report outlining the consultancy approach, detailed work plan, stakeholder engagement framework, and projected implementation milestones.
Conducting a thorough assessment of prevailing migration patterns, root causes, and obstacles influencing the return and reintegration of stranded migrants within the East African Community (EAC) region, the position requires compiling actionable, high-integrity data to inform the formulation of impactful response strategies.
Countries are tasked with delineating the roles and responsibilities of nations serving as points of origin, transit, or destination, while also establishing frameworks for both anticipatory and responsive regional collaboration on return and reintegration initiatives. This includes the development and refinement of draft regional framework documents focused specifically on return and reintegration processes.
National consultation meetings will be conducted across all eight Partner States, culminating in the preparation of detailed reports summarizing key findings and recommendations.
A draft Study Report has been prepared to present key findings regarding the policy, legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks governing return and reintegration across EAC Partner States.
A regional validation meeting will convene online to review the draft study, followed by the issuance of an approved validation report to document outcomes.
The final outcome report of the study will be prepared by integrating feedback and insights gathered from the regional validation meeting and national consultations to address the proposed intervention.
Supervisory oversight and reporting duties encompass the management and monitoring of team performance, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while maintaining accurate documentation and communication of progress. The role involves the preparation and submission of detailed reports, adherence to compliance standards, and providing actionable insights to stakeholders. Additionally, the position requires the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement corrective actions as needed to optimize operational efficiency and support informed decision-making.
The Consultant will collaborate with the designated Organizational Department or Unit to deliver targeted support and expertise. This role involves active participation in initiatives, aligning strategies with departmental objectives, and contributing specialized skills to enhance operational effectiveness. The position requires seamless integration into existing workflows, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that all deliverables meet the unit’s goals and standards.
The Consultant will report to the designated department within the EAC Secretariat and collaborate closely with the IOM Regional Office for East, Horn, and Southern Africa. Progress updates will be submitted regularly, in alignment with the approved work plan.
The Consultant will maintain ongoing communication with the EAC Secretariat and the IOM Regional Office for East, Horn, and Southern Africa through a Joint Technical Team, which will oversee and assist in the consultancy process. This includes coordinating with Partner States and organizing consultative meetings to ensure effective collaboration and execution of tasks.
Upon submission of the deliverables, the EAC Secretariat and IOM may provide feedback and request revisions. Approval from both the EAC Secretariat and IOM will be mandatory for the deliverables as outlined in the submission requirements.
The deliverables and reporting must be prepared in English. All content should be submitted electronically in both Word and PDF formats. Hard copies must also accompany electronic submissions in accordance with EAC Secretariat guidelines. The consultant assumes full responsibility for the precision and validity of the data provided, as well as the sources referenced. Should translations into additional languages be necessary, IOM will handle the translation of the outputs accordingly.
The consultant will not assume managerial, supervisory, or representative duties as part of their role.
All materials and data furnished to the consultant are strictly confidential and must not be utilized for unauthorized purposes or disclosed to external parties without the prior written consent of both IOM and the EAC Secretariat.
The scope of duties outlined may be adjusted, with IOM’s approval and in collaboration with the EAC Secretariat, to align with evolving project needs. Upon request from IOM, the consultant may deliver supplementary advisory services that correspond with their professional qualifications and specialized knowledge, as specified in the attached EAC Terms of Reference.
Seeking candidates with a robust background and proven track record in the specified field. Applicants must possess the essential educational credentials and relevant professional experience to excel in this role. Familiarity with industry-standard tools, methodologies, and best practices is mandatory. Demonstrated problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are also required. Additionally, excellent communication and teamwork capabilities are essential for collaborative success.
Minimum of five years of professional experience in a similar role, preferably within the financial services sector, along with a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a closely related field. Proficiency in financial modeling, data analysis, and Microsoft Excel is essential, along with strong communication abilities to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Additionally, familiarity with regulatory compliance standards and risk management frameworks is highly desirable.
The ideal Consultant will demonstrate the following qualifications and professional competencies:
A Bachelor’s degree, complemented by an advanced degree at the master’s level or above, in International Relations, Migration Studies, Law, Social Sciences, Business Studies, Public Policy, Public Administration, or a related discipline is mandatory.
Seeking candidates with a proven track record of professional experience in relevant fields. Applicants must demonstrate hands-on expertise through prior roles, ensuring alignment with the demands of this position. A minimum number of years in a similar or related capacity is required, along with a deep understanding of industry standards and best practices. Preferred candidates will have a background that includes [specific experience areas, if mentioned].
A decade or more of demonstrated professional expertise in migration, return, and reintegration, or closely related fields, is required.
Experienced in creating or refining regional and national frameworks, policies, and guidelines, with a preference for migration management initiatives.
Proficient in regional and international legal frameworks, standards, and established best practices pertaining to migration, return, and reintegration.
Proven track record of collaborating with Partner States, regional entities, and key stakeholders—such as governmental and non-governmental organizations—alongside experience engaging with the EAC or regional governments, which is considered advantageous.
Analytical prowess, robust research capabilities, and a proven ability to produce well-crafted reports are essential, supported by prior experience in consultancy or specialized assignments addressing comparable subjects.
Demonstrates a strong track record in managing the technical facets of the Consultancy. Exhibits proven expertise in collaborating within diverse cultural settings and cultivating productive, cohesive professional relationships.
Language:
Fluency in written and spoken English is essential, with proficiency in Kiswahili or French considered advantageous.
Language proficiency will be assessed during the selection process through standardized written and/or oral evaluations.
We prioritize adherence to ethical standards and compliance with relevant regulations throughout all operations. This includes ensuring transparency, integrity, and accountability in decision-making processes. Additionally, we consider broader societal impacts, stakeholder interests, and sustainability practices to align with organizational values and mission objectives.
The Consultant is expected to uphold the most rigorous ethical standards throughout the assignment. This entails safeguarding confidentiality, maintaining impartiality, and securing informed consent when necessary, while also demonstrating sensitivity to the cultural norms of the EAC Partner States. All research activities and consultations must align with globally recognized ethical research guidelines.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
