TERMS OF REFERENCE 

PROJECT OVERVIEW

CASA is an FCDO - International Climate Finance (ICF) funded programme driving global investment for inclusive climate-resilient agri-food systems that increase smallholder incomes. CASA makes the case to impact and return-oriented investors for increased investment in agribusinesses that work with smallholder supply chains. The programme achieves this goal by: 

• Demonstrating the commercial viability and investment-readiness of small and medium-sized (SME) agribusinesses with significant smallholder supply chains
• Helping investors to increase the impact of their investments through the provision of inclusive technical assistance
• Strengthening the socio-legal empowerment of smallholders within value chains
• Tackling the information and evidence gaps holding back investment

For demonstrating the commercial and development potential of smallholder sourcing models, CASA focuses on catalytic interventions in the agriculture sectors of Ethiopia, Malawi, Nepal and Rwanda that support agri-SMEs prepare for and secure investment while connecting smallholders to commercial markets. 

CASA’s work on research and communications is structured around identifying constraints, opportunities and addressing evidence gaps through research; shaping the debate on smallholder agriculture to influence actions of investors, governments and donors; and creating networking opportunities through events and stakeholder engagement.

ASSIGNMENT BACKGROUND 

CASA implements its work through supporting Market Systems approaches in selected ‘Anchor Value Chains’ to pilot, scale, and demonstrate holistic market approaches that could be replicated or scaled elsewhere, and within which CASA has potential to achieve significant results, particularly in enabling more smallholder farmers to develop resilience in the face of climate change.

Fine Fish Ltd is a company with a vision to lead in sustainable aquaculture practices, aiming to provide high-quality fish products while maintaining a balance with the environment. Their mission involves implementing innovative and responsible farming techniques to ensure the health and welfare of fish stocks, contributing positively to the local economy, and minimizing environmental impact.

The company's core activities, as detailed in their business plan, include the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish in a manner that is sustainable and scalable, along with possibly processing and distribution. A focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations is crucial for Fine Fish Ltd as it directly impacts the company's sustainability practices. This encompasses responsible resource management, ethical business conduct, and fostering positive community relations, all of which are essential for the long-term viability and success of their aquaculture operations.

In aligning with Rwanda's national emphasis on sustainable development, environmental protection, and socio-economic progress, Fine Fish Ltd is poised to integrate a suite of international ESG guidelines, such as those from the Global Reporting Initiative, Principles for Responsible Investment, and Sustainable Accounting Standards Board. The company's commitment involves the adoption of eco-friendly aquaculture methods, the establishment of transparent governance, active community engagement supporting local development, implementation of strategies to reduce carbon emissions, and fostering economic growth in line with the UN's SDGs. The ESG consultant would be expected to have a thorough understanding of these frameworks and provide guidance on how Fine Fish Ltd can harmonize its operations with these guidelines to foster sustainability, accountability, and social responsibility.

OBJECTIVES

The overall objective for hiring an ESG consultant for Fine Fish Ltd is to refine and elevate the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices to be consistent with Rwanda's sustainability ambitions. This encompasses integrating the necessities and wellbeing of the local communities and environmental stewardship into the company's operational framework. Moreover, it involves harmonizing Fine Fish Ltd.’s business conduct with international ESG standards while adhering to the national policies of Rwanda, thereby ensuring that the company's growth is sustainable, socially responsible, and governed by the best practices recognized both locally and globally.

SCOPE OF WORK AND METHODOLOGY FOR ESG CONSULTANCY ASSIGNMENT

Scope of Work:

1. ESG Audit:

• Conduct a comprehensive ESG audit of Fine Fish Ltd.’s current practices, identifying areas of strength and opportunities for improvement in line with industry benchmarks and best practices.

2. Strategy Development:

• Develop an ESG strategy that encompasses biodiversity conservation, water resource management, climate adaptation and mitigation, community engagement, gender equality and social inclusion and transparent governance. This strategy should align with Fine Fish Ltd.’s business objectives and Rwanda's sustainability goals.

3. Performance Metrics:

• Specify the metrics for evaluating the ESG consultant's performance, focusing on measurable outcomes such as the impact on Fine Fish Ltd.’s sustainability initiatives and contributions to social responsibility.

4. Reporting Structure:

• Establish a clear reporting structure to communicate progress and results to both Casa Rwanda and Fine Fish Ltd, ensuring transparency and accountability.

5. Training and Capacity Building:

• Implement a program for training and capacity building to enhance Fine Fish Ltd.’s staff competencies in ESG practices, ensuring the sustainability of these initiatives.

6. Documentation:

• Codify all findings and recommendations in detailed documents as outlined in the deliverables section, creating a comprehensive report of the consultancy's outcomes.

7. Stakeholder Presentation:
   • Present the findings and developed strategies to Fine Fish Ltd and the CASA Programme, ensuring that all interested parties are informed and aligned with the ESG strategy.

Methodology:

• Audit Process:
• Utilize a combination of document reviews, stakeholder interviews, and onsite assessments to gather comprehensive data on Fine Fish Ltd.’s current ESG practices.
• Strategy Formulation:
• Apply a participatory approach involving key Fine Fish Ltd stakeholders to ensure the developed ESG strategy is tailored to the company's unique context and has widespread buy-in.
• Metrics Development:
• Collaborate with Fine Fish Ltd.’s management to develop SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) metrics that accurately reflect the company's ESG performance.
• Training Implementation:
• Design and execute a series of workshops and training modules that are interactive, practical, and tailored to the needs of Fine Fish Ltd.’s staff.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Follow a structured format for documentation that aligns with international reporting standards to ensure clarity and uniformity of the reports.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
• Engage with the FCDO and other stakeholders throughout the consultancy to maintain alignment and ensure that all actions taken are within the scope of the CASA Programme's objectives.

DELIVERABLES 

1. ESG Audit Report: A report on Fine Fish Ltd.’s existing ESG practices, highlighting strengths and suggesting improvements based on industry standards and alignment with international and Rwandan sustainability goals.
2. Strategic ESG Framework: A document outlining ESG strategies for biodiversity, water management, community, and governance, requiring Casa Rwanda's approval.
3. Workshops and Training: Interactive sessions to enhance staff ESG skills, with full documentation for ongoing reference and quality enhancement.
4. Performance Metrics Report: A detailed metrics report to assess the consultant's impact on Fine Fish Ltd.’s sustainability and social responsibility.
5. Reporting: Regular updates and a final comprehensive report to Casa Rwanda and Fine Fish Ltd summarizing the ESG strategy's effectiveness and training outcomes.
6. Documentation Package: A compilation of all findings, strategies, and tools created during the consultancy for Fine Fish Ltd.’s future use.
7. Stakeholder Presentation Materials: Materials prepared for presenting outcomes to the Fine Fish Ltd and other stakeholders as mandated by the CASA Programme.

ASSIGNMENT MANAGEMENT, DURATION AND BUDGET 

Duration and management:

As per activity 2 in the CASA/Fine Fish Ltd workplan and budget, the consultancy will utilize up to 30 workdays, between 10^th June 2024 and 31^st July 2024.

Key milestones will include the completion of the ESG audit, the development of the ESG strategic framework, and the execution of training sessions. All activities will be scheduled to integrate seamlessly with Fine Fish Ltd’s operational calendar and Casa Rwanda’s strategic timelines.

An indicative breakdown of the days is given below

A workplan and budget will be formulated to encompass all aspects of the consultancy, including the initial ESG audit, the creation of the strategic ESG framework, and the execution of staff training sessions. The budget will account for consultancy fees, travel expenses, materials, and any other resources necessary to complete the assignment.

The consultant will work under the technical supervision of the Rwanda Country Intervention Manager and the Market Manager for Aquaculture. CASA team members to be copied on report submissions.

REQUIREMENTS 

The CASA Rwanda ESG consultant will be expected to possess the following skills, qualifications, and experiences: - 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Climate Change and Environment related studies, Development studies or similar with more than 15 years of relevant experience. A Master's degree is an advantage
• In-depth knowledge of Rwanda's environmental policies, social landscape, and governance frameworks.
• Experience in the aquaculture sector and familiarity with international ESG standards, preferably also with a good understanding of the incentives for businesses to build in climate, environment and gender dimensions into their business mode
• Strong analytical skills.
• Self-starter able to work with minimal oversight in sometimes ambiguous settings, drive their own work agenda, and ability to deliver to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills for training and mentoring and strong report writing and technical document drafting skills.
• Fluent written and spoken English.

Offers/ proposals for this tender should only be submitted on the mentioned email: rw_info@swisscontact.org.

Deadline: June 7th, 2024