East Africa Ag/Energy Advisor is responsible for supporting productive use models of off-grid energy to strengthen agricultural value chains and rural livelihoods in East Africa. This is a full-time role based in Nairobi, Kenya. This position reports to BTG Cross Cutting Team Leader.
Responsibilities:
Lead all activities relating to ag/energy nexus in East Africa, including conducting assessments, identification of highest impact opportunities, contributing to annual work plans, implementing approved activities, and reporting on progress
Identify and advance opportunities to promote partnerships and facilitate introductions between off-grid companies and agricultural value chain actors, including farmer cooperatives, extension agencies, bulk-buyers, and input suppliers.
Support off-grid companies in developing, refining and scaling up productive use business models in East Africa
Advise BTG country advisors in East Africa on issues relating to the ag/energy nexus and agricultural value chains
Help off-grid companies to identify and prepare financial applications for grants and other sources of funding; review grant and commercial finance applications to ensure comprehensive and
Support investors and financial institutions in designing financial products targeted at productive uses of off-grid energy
Coordinate with USAID missions in East Africa to align BTG ag/energy activities with other economic growth programs, such as Feed the Future.
Perform other duties related to ensure accomplishment of relevant project objectives as assigned by direct supervisor
Requirements:
Master’s degree in a relevant technical field and 12 years’ relevant experience including substantive field experience in Africa
Prior experience with the energy-agriculture-water nexus
Demonstrated, strong experience with community engagement, consultative processes, community land rights and issues,
Demonstrated experience with pay-as-you go, microcredit, micro-entrepreneurship models, community credit (such as Grameen bank), establishment of creditworthiness/credit history
Demonstrated understanding of economic and business constraints to rural agribusiness
Possess excellent organizational and analytical skills;
Strong verbal and written English communications skills
