Consultancy Services to Develop a Sustainability Plan for the E-Soko Platform Upgrade

Introduction

Tearfund is an international Christian charity tackling poverty and injustice in over 50 countries. Tearfund has been active in Rwanda for many years, partnering with local organizations, churches, and government institutions to support community development, economic empowerment, and sustainable agriculture.

Background and Context

 Tearfund, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) and the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), is upgrading the E-Soko Platform, a digital tool designed to enhance agricultural market access for farmers and traders.

To ensure the platform remains functional and sustainable after donor support ends, Tearfund requires an individual consultant to review existing studies, engage with key stakeholders, and develop a practical sustainability plan.

Objectives of the Consultancy

The main objective is to develop a clear and actionable sustainability plan for the E-Soko platform, ensuring its long-term viability. Specific tasks include:

• Reviewing existing reports (business plans, sustainability studies, USAID e-platform assessments).
• Conducting interviews with 3-5 key agri-tech/tech companies to gather insights on successful sustainability models.
• Recommending strategies for financial, operational, and technical sustainability.

Scope of Work

The consultant will:

• Desk Review: Analyze existing documents provided by NAEB/MINAGRI.
• Stakeholder Consultations: Interview selected agri-tech firms, government agencies, and private sector players.
• Sustainability Plan Development: Propose a realistic roadmap for MINAGRI/NAEB and partners to maintain and scale the E-Soko platform.

Expected Deliverables

Consultant Qualifications & Requirements

Professional Experience

• At least 5 years of experience in sustainability planning, agri-tech, digital platforms, or business model development.
• Proven track record of developing sustainability strategies for donor-funded projects (preferably in agriculture or ICT).
• Experience working with government agencies, the private sector, and NGOs in Rwanda or similar contexts.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
• Ability to engage stakeholders effectively (government, private sector, tech companies).
• Knowledge of agricultural markets, digital platforms, and business models.
• Fluency in English and Kinyarwanda (written and spoken).

Duration & Reporting

• Duration: 1 month (starting from contract signing).
• Reporting: The consultant will report to Tearfund.
• Report period: Weekly

Application Requirements

Interested consultants should submit:

• A technical proposal (max 5 pages) outlining methodology and work plan.
• A financial proposal (daily rate, total budget).
• CV with relevant experience.
• Sample of past similar work (e.g., sustainability plan, business model report).
• A VAT certificate in case you are applying as a consulting firm.
•  RSSB clearance

Application process

Applications should be submitted by 17:00 CAT on 2nd May 2025 to the email rwanda-procurement@tearfund.org with the subject named “Esoko Sustainability Plan”

Evaluation Criteria