Appels d'offres publiés
Page 1 / 5Development of Social Inclusion Strategy for Indigenous People is Sub Saharan Af…
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES - FIRMS SELECTION) IMPLEMENTING AGENCY: COMMON MARKET FOR EASTERN AND SOUTHERN AFRICA (COMESA) NAME OF PROGRAM: ACCELERATING SUSTAINABLE & CLEAN ENERGY ACCESS TRANSFORMATION PROGRAM USING THE MULTIPHASE PROGRAMMATIC APPROACH PROJECT ID: P180547 ASSIGNMENT TITLE: CONSULTANCY SERVICE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMESA SOCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES/ SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN HISTORICALLY UNDERSERVED TRADITIONAL LOCAL COMMUNITIES, WOMEN, YOUTH, MINORITY CLANS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY. REFERENCE NO. ZM-COMESA -522846-CS-QCBS. 1.0 INTRODUCATION COMESA aims to achieve sustainable economic and social progress in all Member States through increased regional economic cooperation and integration in all fields of development, particularly in trade, customs, and monetary affairs. The COMESA Treaty under Articles 154 and 155 acknowledges the role of women in the socio-economic transformation, development, and sustainable economic growth in the region. It also recognizes the importance of impartial treatment of women and highlights the different needs, concerns, and interests of women that should be integrated into all COMESA programs and projects. This is also translated into the COMESA Gender Policy (2016) which guides the work on the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment in the COMESA region. Furthermore, the Treaty emphasizes that Member States shall take action to narrow the gender gaps and facilitate gender main streaming for meaningful participation of women in regional integration and social transformation and development. The COMESA Gender Policy notes that although progress has been achieved towards COMESA regional economic integration, evidence still reveals that participation by women, youth and people with disabilities in intra-regional trade and investment has been sub-optimal (COMESA, 2016) 2.0 OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The COMESA secretariat is planning to acquire the services of a consultant for the development of the COMESA social inclusion strategy for indigenous peoples/ Sub-saharan African historically underserved traditional local communities, women, youth, minority clans and people with disability. The strategy will identify barriers to participation, propose actionable steps for inclusion, create opportunities for engagement and provide a framework for the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of inclusion efforts across all COMESA initiatives. The following are some of the objectives: • Develop a Social Inclusion Strategy to guarantee the inclusion of Indigenous people, women, youth, minority clans, and people with disabilities in all activities and projects implemented by COMESA. • Ensure these groups have equitable access to resources, opportunities, and benefits from regional development programs. • Identify and address systemic barriers to their participation and inclusion in key decision-making processes and implementation stages. • Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress and ensure the accountability of inclusion initiatives. Full detailed TORs may be downloaded in English from the following link: https://www.comesa.int/consultancy-service-for-the-development-of-the-comesa-social-inclusion-strategy-for-indigenous-peoples-sub-saharan-african-historically-underserved-traditional-local-communities-women-youth-minori/ Or can be obtained from the COMESA Secretariat on request using the email provided below: Attn: Mr. Silver Mwesigwa Head of Procurement Email: [email protected] 3.0 SHORTLISTING CRITERIA The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria is as follows. | No. | Evaluation CRITERIA | 1 | The firm’s core business (Submit company profile) | 2 | Experience of the firm • Evidence of experience with the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and Performance Standards is required i.e. social risks and Impacts ESS7. • Experience working in the COMESA member countries • The consulting firm should possess the following qualifications, with a team comprising key experts, each having at least 5 years of relevant experience and a minimum of master’s degree in social sciences, Development studies, Gender Studies, Public policy or any other related field | 3 | Technical and managerial capability of the firm to manage the assignment | 4 | Eligibility (Firms must not be debarred or sanctioned by the World Bank) The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” Sixth Edition of February 2025. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations Sixth Edition of February 2025. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 09:00 to 16:00 hours Monday to Thursday, on Fridays from 09:00 to 12:30 hours Zambian time except for weekends and Public Holidays. Address: Head of Procurement, COMESA Secretariat, Ben Bella Road, Lusaka, Zambia. Email address: [email protected] 4.0 SUBMISSION Expressions of interest must be submitted written to the following email address; [email protected] with a copy to [email protected] ATT: THE HEAD OF PROCUREMENT ASSIGNMENT TITLE: CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMESA SOCIAL INCLUSION STRATEGY FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES/ SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN HISTORICALLY UNDERSERVED TRADITIONAL LOCAL COMMUNITIES, WOMEN, YOUTH, MINORITY CLANS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY. REFERENCE No. ZM-COMESA -522846-CS-QCBS 5.0 CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSION The Closing date for receipt of Expression of Interest is 3rd April 2026 at 10:00 hours Zambian time NB: Physical submission of EOIs shall not be accepted.
Recruitment of a consulting firm for the provision of technical consultancy on l…
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRMS SELECTION) COUNTRY: Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) NAME OF PROJECT: Inclusive Digitalization for Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Contract Reference No.: ZM-COMESA - 525914-QCBS Grant No.: E349-3E Assignment Title: Technical Consultancy on Development of Least-Cost, Digital Infrastructure Planning and Financing Models for Connectivity Expansion in Eastern and Southern Africa The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has received a grant from the World Bank for the cost of Inclusive Digitalization for Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The overall objective of the consulting services (“the Services”) include developing of financing models, designing Least Cost and sustainable connectivity options, developing an integrated digital infrastructure planning platform and developing toolkits for project preparation support. The estimated implementation period is thirteen months (390 calendar days), commencing from the date of signing the contract. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment are attached to this Request for Expressions of Interest and can be obtained from the COMESA Website at the address given below. 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES The consulting services (“the Services”) include developing of financing models, designing Least Cost and sustainable connectivity options, developing an integrated digital infrastructure planning platform and developing toolkits for project preparation support. This assignment does not include the procurement or supply of any hardware or equipment. 2.0 SCOPE OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES Key areas on the scope are outlined below: 2.1 Digital Infrastructure Financing Models for IDEA program countries. (ii) Reviewing of existing financing mechanisms such as USFs, loans, risk guaranteeing and blended finance, at the macro level including representative samples from the remaining COMESA countries; and (ii) Developing tailored, sustainable and viable financing models to bridge ICT investment gaps and attract private capital for the targeted countries. 2.2 Least-Cost Connectivity Options: (i) identifying cost-effective and sustainable connectivity solutions for public institutions, remote, and cross-border areas at micro level; and (ii) conducting economic assessments comparing such as fibre, wireless, and satellite options to determine the most viable models linked with the available financing models. 2.3 Integrated Digital Infrastructure Planning Platform: 2.3.1 designing, customising and developing for COMESA an integrated regional Digital Infrastructure Planning platform with capabilities for data integration, spatial analysis, and scenario modelling, accompanied by training and capacity-building support; and 2.3.2 Piloting the platform in up to four priority Member States with the highest potential to apply it holistically, thereby enabling comprehensive validation and stabilization while demonstrating its overall value. 2.4 Project Preparation Support Concept: 2.4.1 Developing practical guidelines and toolkits for preparing bankable ICT infrastructure projects; 2.4.2 Providing structured approaches for feasibility studies, transaction structuring, and risk mitigation measures covering technical, financial, operational, and where relevant, environmental and social (E&S); and 2.4.2 Proposing a regional support mechanism to strengthen Member States’ project preparation capacities prioritizing IDEA countries. 3.0 QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE OF THE CONSULTANTS COMESA is seeking applications from a firm. The selected firm is expected to demonstrate a track-record of successfully carrying out similar assignments, including: (i) Experience of supporting regional or national broadband infrastructure planning and financing initiatives. (ii) Experience of working on ICT sector financing, blended finance, or digital infrastructure policy. (iii) Experience of engaging with ISPs, infrastructure investors, and DFIs. The successful firm should have a team with the following minimum qualifications and experience: 3.1 Lead Consultant i. A minimum of a master’s degree in economics, Engineering, Finance or related field. ii. Minimum of 15 years’ experience in ICT infrastructure, public-private financing, or related sectors. iii. Proven track record in leading complex, multi-stakeholder assignments. iv. Experience working with governments and private sector entities on infrastructure projects. v. Strong experience managing regional projects and cross-country coordination. vi. Excellent communication and report writing skills. vii. Prior experience working in Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE). 3.2 Infrastructure Finance Specialist i. Master’s degree in finance, Economics, Development Finance, or related field. ii. At least 10 years of experience designing or assessing digital infrastructure financing mechanisms. iii. Strong understanding of public and private financing structures in the ICT sector. vi. Demonstrated ability to assess investor risk appetites and financing constraints. 3.3 Connectivity Modeling Expert i. Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Telecommunications, or related technical field. ii. At least 8 years of experience in broadband infrastructure planning and modelling. iii. Familiarity with least-cost network design tools or methodologies. vi. Experience working with public institutions and underserved areas in Africa. 3.4 Stakeholder Engagement Specialist/ Research Specialist i. Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, Communications, user experience (UX/UI) or related discipline. ii. At least 7 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, qualitative research, or facilitation. iii. Experience conducting consultations with private sector, DFIs, and government stakeholders. iv Strong verbal and written facilitation skills. 3.5 Geospatial Developer / Data Scientist i. Familiarity with international good practices in open data, spatial data infrastructure (SDI), and cross-sector data governance. ii. A minimum of a master’s degree in computer science, GIS, Remote Sensing, or related field or 5+ years of equivalent professional experience iii. At least 8 years of professional experience working with geospatial data and infrastructure mapping. Iv Expertise in GIS software and open-source web mapping tools (e.g., QGIS, Leaflet, PostGIS, Mapbox, GeoServer); i. Experience designing and managing spatial databases and APIs. ii. 5+ years’ experience in programming languages, e.g. Python, Java, iii. Proven ability to develop dashboards, overlays, and analytical visualizations for non-technical audiences. iv. Proven skills in modern web development frameworks (e.g., React, Django, Node.js) and geospatial tools (e.g., Turf.js, OpenLayers). v. Familiarity with cloud hosting, cybersecurity, and backend optimization for data-intensive platforms. vi. Experience setting up platform analytics, bug tracking, and update management protocols. 3.6 Regulatory and Policy Advisor i. Bachelor’s Degree in international law or related field. ii. At least 10 years’ experience in ICT regulatory frameworks, public-private partnerships in the AFE region. iii. Demonstrated expertise in telecom regulation, licensing regimes, and cross-border harmonization. 3.7 Environmental and Social Safeguards Expert i. Master’s degree in environmental sciences, social sciences or related field ii. At least 5 years of relevant experience in life cycle assessments, environmental and social assessment, multi-criteria assessment, environmental and social monitoring, etc. iii. Experience in preparing and managing the implementation of safeguards instruments including Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) and other environmental and social subsidiary management plans, as necessary iv. Proven ability to advise and support project environmental assessments and social safeguards preparation, and experience of investment program identification, program design and implementation v. Knowledge of environmental and social safeguards policies, frameworks, instruments of Multilateral Financing Institutions and Development Agencies (e.g. World Bank, African Development Bank, European Union, United Nations Agencies, etc.). The estimated implementation period is thirteen (13) months (390 calendar days), commencing from the date of signing the contract. The detailed Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the assignment are attached to this request for expressions of interest or can be obtained at the address given below. The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa now invite eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are: | | a | b | c | d | e | Name of Firm/Consortium | Eligible? (Not in any of the exclusionary situation) | Core business? | Technical and managerial capability | Relevant experience | If more than 8 firms are qualified, re-evaluate c and d | 1 | | | | | | 2 | | | | | | 3. etc | | | | | The Qualifications and Experience of Key Experts shall not be included in the shortlisting criteria. However, at an administrative stage of shortlisting, an Expression of Interest shall only be assessed for completeness in terms of submitting a list of experts for all specified positions as outlined in the ToRs, meeting the minimum educational qualification and complying with the minimum number of years of relevant experience. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn
Finance Expert in Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE)
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. 2.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: i.Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets ii. Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. ii. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. iv.Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. 2.0 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: a. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. b. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. C. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. D.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices andoster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage).
Distributed Renewable Expert — Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: • Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets • Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. • Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. • Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. 2 Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. 3. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. 3. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. 4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time 4. REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency
Recruitment of a Grant Officer
INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools and
Recruitment of Grant Officer
INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools and
Distributed Renewable Expert — Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: • Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets • Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. • Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. • Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. 2 Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. 3. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. 3. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. 4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time 4. REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency
Finance Expert in Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE)
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. 2.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: i.Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets ii. Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. ii. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. iv.Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. 2.0 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: a. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. b. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. C. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. D.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices andoster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage).
Monitoring and Evaluation Expert Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools a
Distributed Renewable Expert — Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: • Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets • Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. • Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. • Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. 2 Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. 3. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. 3. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. 4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time 4. REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency
Finance Expert — Distributed Renewable Energy
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. 2.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: i.Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets ii. Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. ii. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. iv.Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. 2.0 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: a. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. b. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. C. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. D.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices andoster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage).
Grant Officer Recruitment
INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools and
Monitoring and Evaluation Expert Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools a
Finance Expert in Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE)
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. 2.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: i.Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets ii. Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. ii. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. iv.Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. 2.0 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: a. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. b. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. C. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. D.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices andoster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage).
Distributed Renewable Expert — Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: • Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets • Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. • Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. • Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. 2 Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. 3. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. 3. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. 4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time 4. REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency
Monitoring and Evaluation Expert Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools a
Recruitment of a Grant Officer
INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools and
Monitoring and Evaluation Expert Recruitment
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools a
Finance Expert — Distributed Renewable Energy
• INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. 2.0 PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: i.Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets ii. Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. ii. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. iv.Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. 2.0 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 • JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: a. Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. b. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. C. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. D.Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. E. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices andoster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage).
Grant Officer Recruitment
INTRODUCTION The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a regional integration grouping of 21 African States which have agreed to promote regional integration through trade development and transport facilitation. COMESA has also established a number of institutions to support integration. The Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) Program is an ambitious leap toward universal energy access and the clean energy transition in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) region, home to 656 million people. ASCENT presents a programmatic framework for the World Bank to support acceleration of access to electricity in AFE, which utilizes the Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA). The Project activities are based on known technologies and business and implementation models. Grid electrification will use well-established technologies and methods. The typical investments will include extensions and strengthening of low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) lines, substations, transformers, and service drops. The projects may finance ready boards and internal wiring to increase affordability of connections, as well as appliances and productive-use equipment. Country-specific projects may also include variable renewable energy (VRE) integration investments and equipment, including battery storage. Financing of large-scale transmission is not expected; however, on case-by-case basis. PROJECT BACKGROUND: Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) (P180547) is a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar programme aimed at scaling-up energy access in the Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region. The ASCENT program seeks to increase access to sustainable and clean energy, enhance energy security, promote renewable energy solutions, and strengthen climate resilience throughout the region. Funded by a $5 billion financing envelope from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), ASCENT aims to mobilize an additional $10 billion from public and private sources. The project will span over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa during a seven-year period (FY24–FY30). Key targets include providing electricity access to 100 million people and clean cooking solutions for 20 million people. The ASCENT focuses on three key pillars: • Regional and National Platforms to Accelerate Energy Access • Expanding Grid-based Electrification • Scaling Distributed Renewables and Clean Cooking The Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP) is part of ASCENT Phase 1 pillars for delivery. Managed by COMESA, REAAP aims to provide comprehensive technical assistance (TA) and capacity building for participating countries and the private sector. REAAP will drive the acceleration of energy access in the region and provide support to countries that have joined the ASCENT programme, as well as those that are preparing their projects for program entry. The REAAP includes the following components: Component 1: Digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (D-MRV) Platforms for Energy Access and Climate Finance. The Platform is supporting countries with adoption of D-MRV platforms and other digital technologies to improve sector planning; implementation of project activities; and monitoring, reporting, and verification of countries’ energy-access efforts; as well as enabling access to climate financing, including facilitating participation in carbon markets Component 2: Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The PPF is a critical component of the ASCENT MPA, offering support to governments and the private sector in developing bankable, investment-ready projects through a demand-driven approach. Component 3: Advisory support facility. This component is supporting participating countries on strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for energy access. Component 4: Knowledge exchange, skills development, consumer engagement, convening and partnerships. This component is building data, knowledge, and skills for energy-access planners, funders, and providers, as well as their current and prospective employees and energy-access consumers. It will enable participating countries to share both technical knowledge and experience in energy-access interventions, thus facilitating faster learning and replication of successful approaches. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION UNIT As part of the implementation of the project, the COMESA secretariat will set up an integrated Project Implementation Unit to support the implementation of the above-mentioned project. The Unit will be based mainly within the infrastructure with the respective technical experts integrated into respective technical divisions and units at COMESA Secretariat. The COMESA Secretariat intends to recruit staff for the Project Implementation Unit as described in the job description below | No. | POSITION | NO. OF POSTS | 1. | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | 1 | 2. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Finance Specialist | 1 | 3. | Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) Technical Specialist | 1 | 4. | Grants Officer | 1 JOB DESCRIPTION POSITION ONE | | JOB TITLE | : | Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | | SALARY | : | USD 78,000 Per Annum all inclusive | | PROGRAMME | : | Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) | | DUTY STATION | : | COMESA Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia | | CONTRACT DURATION | : | Two (2) years with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds for continued project implementation and satisfactory performance. The initial contract period shall include a six (6) months probationary period. | | REPORTING TO | : | Project Coordinator with dotted line to the Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit. SCOPE OF WORK Under the direct Supervision of the Project Coordinator and the overall supervision of Head of COMESA Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and manage the monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for activities under COMESA’s Regional Energy Access Acceleration Platform (REAAP). The specialist will play a key role in ensuring results-based management, tracking performance indicators, and generating data-driven insights to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of ASCENT Projects. This position also plays an important role in supporting results monitoring as part of the deployment of the digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) platform. The Monitoring and Evaluation Expert will will perform the following main functions in order to ensure overall delivery of the project: • Monitoring and Evaluation Systems Development • Develop monitoring and evaluation tools and systems in order to facilitate implementation of REAAP and ASCENT. • Develop and review monitoring and evaluation procedures, actions and record them in the Project Operations Manual. • Prepare and implement the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including production of the overall M&E Manual for ASCENT that could be customized for country0level operations. • Support the development and continuous improvement of the regional dMRV platform to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and ensure alignment with results frameworks of the ASCENT Projects. Performance Monitoring and Reporting • Monitor project implementation progress against defined indicators and targets. • Regularly collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) at both the REAAP and ASCENT programme levels. • Ensure that the dMRV platform is updated with accurate, validated data received from country project implementation units (PIU) and implementing partners. • Prepare high-quality periodic performance reports (quarterly, bi-annual, and annual) for internal and external stakeholders. • Develop data visualization products (infographics, summary reports) to communicate ASCENT performance trends. Data Management and Quality Assurance • Oversee data collection processes across PIUs to ensure accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness across the region. • Coordinate data consolidation and indicator calculation from country-level M&E teams into the central dMRV system. • Establish quality control mechanisms and troubleshoot discrepancies within the dMRV platform. • Maintain the integrity, security, and usability of the dMRV platform and ensure its integration with broader COMESA data and reporting systems. Impact Evaluation Support • Collaborate with evaluation teams in designing and implementing impact evaluations for select interventions under ASCENT. • Support the development of evaluation frameworks, baseline and endline methodologies, sampling designs, and data collection instruments. • Support field-level data collection for evaluations and ensure data consistency with monitoring systems. • Ensure integration of impact evaluation data and findings into broader learning and adaptive management processes. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange • Provide technical guidance and capacity building of Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists at country level in regards to standardisation of methodologies and measurement timing, and the use of the dMRV system. • Organize regional workshops and learning exchanges to promote harmonized practices and foster a results-oriented culture. • Performs any other job-related duties as assigned by the Supervisor from time to time REQUIRED Skills and Competencies • Advanced statistical and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to design and analyze complex datasets, apply statistical methodologies, and ensure rigor in monitoring frameworks and impact evaluations (proficiency in tools such as R, STATA, SPSS, or similar is an advantage). • Proficiency in digital M&E tools and