Terms of Reference for Consultancy Services:Analyze the viability of selected cassava seed multiplication business models in Rwanda and provide recommendations for scale up.

 SPARK seeks an Individual Consultant to document technical and market viability of the different seed business models selected in Rwanda. To determine this, the Consultant will interact with the participants from select business cases the project has been working with under the different models.

The study will focus on identifying the sustainable market potential for the cassava seed systems, determining strategic entry points into the identified markets and highlighting the capacity needs of local communities in entrepreneurship and business management. The study report will guide future interventions that enhance the seed system and which contribute to Cassava value chain development in Rwanda.

Under the leadership of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), SPARK Rwanda in collaboration Wageningen University (WUR), Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resource Development Board (RAB), and the Institute des Sciences Agronomiques du Burundi (ISABU) are implementing Cassava Agribusiness Seed Systems (CASS) Project in Rwanda and Burundi. This project started in April 2019 for a period of 36 months.

In Rwanda, CASS is implemented in Ruhango, Muhanga, Bugesera, and Gatsibo where we work with four-selected business cases (AgriSMEs), categorized under three different models namely processor led, private company led and community led that are envisaged to drive seed adaptation. Besides, the key business players and actors might be from different districts. This means that the assignment will be conducted in the mentioned districts.

In Burundi CASS is implemented in Makamba, Rutana, Kirundo, and Cibitoke with two business models selected; the processor and private led. These models have six business cases operational.

The assignment

The analysis will cover the challenges that hinder sustainable utilization of clean seed as well as the opportunities for commercialization of the cassava seeds. The study will also analyze the commercial viability of the products into the market including supply chain. Further, the study will recommend strategic entry points for the communities available in the markets for their products.

This assignment will inform targeting of the right business models and cases to implement the Cassava Seed multiplication business efficiently and effectively. In order to achieve the project objective of increasing the productivity and profitability of farmers, thus resulting in financial benefits for the rural farming communities.

 Objectives of the assignment

1. Assess the potential viability of the three business models identified within CASS; private led, processor led and community led.
2. Highlight strategic entry points and specify clear (implementable) steps for cassava seed system development (with certified seeds), job creation, gender lens, and youth participation.
3. Identify capacity gaps and constraints of in the access and commercialization of quality and certified cassava seed.
4. Provide recommendation for scaling up of most promising cassava seed multiplication business models for Rwanda.

 Expected outputs and key deliverables

1. Inception report outlining approach, methodology, and detailed activity plan for the consultancy (including community consultation processes)
2. A draft report containing strategic plan and implementable recommendations for scale up of selected business models.
3. A seminar presentation of the study results with SPARK and consortium partners.
4. A final report with separate sections for Rwanda highlighting findings and recommendations as well as policy briefs on the different business models
5. Accompanying summary PowerPoint Presentation

 Time frame

The entire work is expected to be complete in 25 days from the signing of the contract. This period includes fieldwork and reporting.

SPARK and consortium partner will be available to assist in the field when needed.

 The consultant:

The consultant will have the following qualifications and expertise:

• An agriculture market analyst with at least a master’s degree in the relevant field with over 7 years progressive working experience with proven skills in conducting elaborate market studies, business planning, and value chain developement
• Practical business model development in the roots and tubers sector with specific cassava seed sector experience
• Experience working in seed sectors in the East African region with experience in Rwanda being an advantage.
• Excellent English and working knowledge of French preferred

 Proposal Evaluation

 The technical proposal must clearly outline the proposed actions, methodology, tools, and duration of each action.

The financial proposal will should clarify daily rates for the consultant, and overall cost of the service. The financial proposals can be submitted in Rwanda Francs.

Evaluation Criteria

 Quotations and Submission

The interested candidates should submit their well-presented Expression of Interest not later than October 5^th, 2021 at 5:00 pm on e-mail addressed to rwanda@spark-online.org with a clear Subject Line: Terms of Reference for Consultancy Services: Analyze the viability of selected cassava seed multiplication business models in Rwanda and provide recommendations for scale up

Bidders are required to submit updated CVs and 3 reference of the successfully completed similar work. Only successful bidders will be notified.