Background
Kilimo Trust, with funding from the IKEA Foundation, is implementing the Regenerative Rice Value Chain Project in Kenya and Uganda – dubbed R4iCSA (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Rice Initiative for Climate Smart Agriculture).
Building on successful implementation, the R4iCSA-II project seeks to strengthen inclusive value chain development in the rice sector and promote rice food systems through regenerative agriculture and circular economy approaches. The project aims to reduce the negative effects of agricultural production on climate while improving farmer incomes and livelihoods.
One of the project’s key objectives is to improve the enabling environment for regenerative agriculture in the rice sub-sector. A core output is the development of evidence-based policy briefs that inform and guide policy reforms.
Objectives of the Assignment
The consultancy aims to:
- Identify policy gaps, regulations, and standards hindering regenerative rice production and agribusiness in Uganda.
- Develop guidelines, standards, and policy briefs to address identified gaps.
- Facilitate policy dialogue meetings with stakeholders to build consensus and propose solutions.
Scope of Work
The consultant/firm will be expected to:
a) Conduct comprehensive research to identify key policy gaps/constraints in Uganda’s rice sub-sector, including review of existing policies on rice production, marketing, and consumption.
b) Map power holders and influencers in the rice sector using relevant power mapping tools.
c) Organize and coordinate stakeholder consultations/meetings to validate identified policy gaps.
d) Draft policy briefs and recommendations informed by the research and stakeholder inputs.
e) Organize and coordinate a high-level stakeholder dialogue to present draft policy briefs for review and feedback.
b) Conduct research to identify the key policy gaps/constraints hindering regenerative rice production and agribusiness in Uganda.
This will include a comprehensive review of all “policies” related to rice production marketing and consumption in Uganda. The exercise shall also entail mapping of power holders across the spheres of power influence using relevant power mapping tools.
c) Organize and coordinate stakeholders’ consultations/meetings to discuss and contextualize the identified policy gaps in sustainable rice production in Uganda.
d) Draft policy briefs and recommendations as informed by the research conducted and stakeholders’ meetings held.
e) Organize and coordinate a high-level stakeholder dialogue to present the policy paper/s or briefs developed for feedback.
The national dialogues, bringing together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers will discuss challenges, opportunities, and solutions in the sector. The dialogue will facilitate knowledge sharing, consensus building, and identification of strategic priorities for promoting sustainable rice production practices nationwide.
Expected Deliverables
- Inception report with detailed methodology and workplan.
- Submit finalized 2 policy briefs to Kilimo Trust – on utilization of rice by-products and wetlands management/conservation
Technical Requirements
- Proven track record in agricultural policy research and policy brief development.
- Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation of national policy dialogues.
- At least 5 years of relevant consultancy experience in Uganda’s agriculture sector.
- Strong knowledge of rice value chain and regenerative agriculture principles.
- Ability to deliver high-quality evidence-based policy briefs within set timelines.
Duration of Assignment
The consultancy is expected to be completed within 3 months from the date of contract signing.
Mode of Application.
All interested vendors must submit their proposals electronically in one folder (Technical & Financial) in one folder. Financial proposal, three reference letters from their clients, Copy of Trading License, and a valid URA Certificate and Company Profile to procurement@kilimotrust.org by Friday, October 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM EAT.
The Prospective Vendor MUST clearly indicate in the email subject “RFP No. KTUG-002 Policy Issues Consultancy – R4iCSA-II”
For clarifications, please email procurement@kilimotrust.org (Attn: Procurement) by Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Only successful bidders will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within one month after submission, consider your bid unsuccessful.