Environment Specialist (in charge of Clean Development Mechanism- CDM)

Rwanda is experiencing rapid economic growth while population growth is also severe and there is a great risk of environment degradation unless appropriate measures are taken. The measures need to not only discourage inappropriate economic development but also encourage activities that contribute to sustainable development.

With this regard, the present comprehensive national strategy in (i.e. Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS, 2008-12) illustrates importance of the development of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

CDM is a scheme based on Kyoto Protocol and reduction of green house gas emission under registered CDM activities brings carbon credits to the participants, which can be sold at a carbon market and give this country a new chance of income generation.  

Right now, the Government of Rwanda does not have sufficient experts in the above field and lacks the capacity. This is the reason why the government requests an international advisor having expertise in the area to stay at the government for a certain period and train national and local government staff members in charge and relating non-government stakeholders. This request is well harmonized with UNDP priorities in the environment field stipulated under UNDAF (United Nations Development Assistance Framework in ; 2008-12) framework for achieving One UN Reform.

Under the overall guidance of the Head of Environment Unit of UNDP Rwanda is seeking a qualified and motivated candidate for the position of a CDM Advisor, to be based in Kigali . The incumbent should possess in-depth expertise in the field of CDM area, and be of such caliber that she/he can effectively engage with high-level government officials and other stakeholders, and represent UNDP and provide advanced strategic advice on CDM policies and programming.

The advisor will work at REMA (Rwanda Environmental Management Authority) and take any necessary measures to establish projects on the CDM or other similar carbon credit schemes including carbon voluntary markets if suitable.

Under the overall supervision of the UNDP Head of Environment Unit and daily close contact with REMA, the incumbent shall undertake the following tasks:

Investigate opportunities of carbon markets (CDM and non-CDM) for ):

Elaborate the national CDM strategy through:

• Establishment of national sustainable criteria for CDM projects
• Elaboration of a strategy for promotion of CDM projects
• Proposition of incentives in order to attract CDM investors in Strengthen institutional, organizational and human capacity relating to CDM, especially that of the Designated National Authority under the Kyoto Protocol through:
• Evaluation of the existing capacities and needs in order to enhance them
• Elaboration of specific training programmes according to various target groups
• Elaboration of training manuals/materials
• Establishment of DNA procedures
• Develop national capacity for identifying, formulating, securing financing and implementing of CDM and non-CDM carbon projects

Key Results Expected

During the assignment, the incumbent will:

• Produce the national strategy/manual for CDM projects development
• Hold a workshop to validate the above national strategy/manual
• Conduct trainings for all the government officials relating to CDM
• Hold at least four workshops during the mission for public/private stakeholders relating to CDM
• Support CDM or non-CDM carbon project development and secure carbon credits by establishing at least one concrete project

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability

Functional Competencies:

Knowledge Management and Learning:

• Promotes knowledge management in UNDP and a learning environment in the office through leadership and personal example
• In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues
• Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more Practice Areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills
• Seeks and applies knowledge, information, and best practices from within and outside of UNDP

Development and Operational Effectiveness:

• Ability to lead strategic planning, change processes, results-based management and reporting
• Ability to lead formulation, oversight of implementation, monitoring and evaluation of development projects
• Ability to apply development theory to the specific country context to identify creative, practical approaches to overcome challenging situations

Management and Leadership:

• Builds strong relationships with clients, focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to feedback
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
• Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities
• Ability to lead effectively, mentoring as well as conflict resolution skills
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
• Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
• Proven networking, team-building, organizational and communication and reporting skills

Education:

• Advanced degree (at least Master’s or equivalent) in environment or related fields.

Experience:

• At least 5 years of work experience with at least 2 years experience in CDM project development especially in developing countries.

Language requirements:

• Fluent in speaking and writing in English or French, preferably both.

N.B. Female candidates are encouraged.