UNICEF recruits 01 Individual Consultancy for Analysis of Cold Chain Inventory Data
Individual Consultancy for Analysis of Cold Chain Inventory Data
Job Number: 521076 | Vacancy Link
Locations: Africa: South Sudan
Work Type : Consultancy
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UNICEF South Sudan
Terms of Reference
Post Title, Duty Station, South Sudan
Position : Individual Consultancy for Analysis of Cold Chain Inventory Data
Level : P3 (International)
Duty Station : Juba, South Sudan
Duration : 35 workings days
Start date : 17th June 2019
Reporting to : EPI Manager
Background
The MoH in collaboration with partners through funding from GAVI Alliance Health Systems Strengthening Program and GFATM is currently conducting Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) survey of approximately 1545 health facilities (hospitals, PHCCs and PHCUs) across 10 former States and 80 Counties of South Sudan. The assessment is being conducted using the standard Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) methodology with electronic data capture using tablets with CSPro software.
Cognizant of the importance of getting useful information of the status of the cold chain situation coupled with lack of accurate data on the number of functional cold chain equipment, the country will for the first time conduct cold chain inventory assessment. The data collection exercise is being conducted alongside the SARA survey that is being led by the MoH with WHO, using the same data collectors and methodology. In this regard, UNICEF is seeking for an experienced international expert to analyze the data that would be collected and make recommendations for improved cold chain systems at all levels. To carry out this assessment, UNICEF is seeking for an experienced international expert to analyze the cold chain inventory assessment data and develop a 5-year cold chain expansion plan for the country.
Purpose & Expected Results
Currently, information and evidence on the number and performance of the cold chain system to help MOH and other stakeholders make decisions, plan, implement and monitor cold chain activities is very limited. Currently, data on cold chain is only collected from the cold chain technicians’ field trip reports, which has serious gaps. Using available data, including the findings of the SARA survey, the analysis will therefore clearly show the number and functional status of the cold chain system at all levels and make recommendations for improved cold chain system in South Sudan.
Specific Tasks
Identify/list relevant background documents and assist the MoH and country partners in conducting a desktop review of these documents
Collate and analyze the already- collected data and make recommendations for improved cold chain systems in the country
Desk review of self-assessment on cold chain equipment inventory prepared by the country team.
Review the cold chain and logistics systems for vaccines in terms of functions, organization, level and role of individuals responsible for the system.
Calculate the cold chain storage and distribution volume capacities currently in place at different levels (national, State, County and health facility).
Estimate the required cold chain storage capacities at all levels , as well as future needs in next 5 years based on new vaccines introduction and other local plans/policies for immunisation
Estimate human resource training needs for the country to ensure functional cold chain systems at all levels.
Develop short and medium term strategic plans to strengthen cold chain systems to enable quality-assured and appropriate amounts of commodities for immunization services; taking into account the assets from CCEOP project.
Costing and prioritization of cold chain needs;
Prepare technical specifications for cold chain equipment, based on identified needs and recommended procurement plan.
Recommendations for a system to follow-up the cold chain performance that can generate routine data. Present findings and recommendations to government and key partners (e.g. ICC or equivalent body).
Finalize and share final report and dataset.
Develop disposal plan for faulty and obsolete equipment in the facilities.
Deliverables
The consultancy duration consists of a total of 35 working days; starting 17th June to 02nd August 2019. The deliverables and timelines will be agreed upon in accordance with the objectives of the consultancy.
| Deliverables | Duration (Estimated # of working days) | Deadlines |
|
10 | 17th June – 02nd July 2019 |
|
2 | 03rd -04th July 2019 |
|
7 | 05th -15th July 2019 |
Cold chain assessment report written, which includes:
|
5 | 16th – 22nd July 2019 |
| Short and medium term strategic plans to strengthen cold chain developed including replacement plan of the existing CC equipment | 2 | 23rd -24th July 2019 |
| Technical specifications for cold chain equipment made. Recommendations regarding the system to follow-up cold chain performance is available | 1 | 25th July 2019 |
| Findings of the assessment is shared with stakeholders and presented to ICC | 1 | 26th July 2019 |
| Disposal plan of faulty and obsolete cold chain equipment developed | 5 | 27th July – 02nd August 2019 |
| Total Number of Days | 35 |
Qualifications and Competencies required
The above described assignment requires high technical skills as well as good knowledge of international policies and regulations related to immunisation, in particular cold chain management. Applicants are expected to be seasoned experts in the field of vaccine management and immunization with a strong leadership and capability in facilitation. Minimum, but not limited to, consultants’ qualifications are as follows:
University degree in epidemiology, medicine, public health or supply chain management, with further training on vaccine management, cold chain and supply management. Familiarity with relevant WHO and UNICEF guidelines and tools.
Minimum of 5 years of practical experience in managing supply chain operations involving planning, organizing, implementing and advisory support, with experience in resource-limited settings.
Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in conducting EVMA and related assessments
Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in cold chain and vaccine management is required.
Previous participation in cold chain assessments will be a strong asset.
Excellent analytical capacities; excellent ability to synthesize information and relate action to results.
Ability to multi-task and produce quality outputs on short deadlines.
Excellent command of English language, both oral and written, including report-writing skills.
Previous similar work experience with international organizations and /or governmental programs concerning related field is an advantage.
Experience in training, planning and delivery of technical assistance
Proven track record in interfacing with national ministries of health a distinct advantage
All applications MUST include a cover page, detailed resume and financial proposal
Estimated Duration of the Contract
35 working days; from June 17th to August 02nd, 2019.
Duty Station and Official Travel
The consultant will be expected to visit some health facilities for data verification.
Estimated Cost of the Consultancy
A competitive bidding process will take place and the Section will pay the negotiated daily consultancy fee.
Payment Schedule
The consultant shall be paid 30 per cent of the cost upon arrival. The remaining 70 per cent shall be paid upon completion of all the deliverables and submission of reports.
Reporting Arrangements
The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the UNICEF South Sudan Cold Chain Logistics Specialist under the oversight of the EPI manager. The incumbent will also work closely with the Ministry of Health (MOH) as well the UNICEF Regional Cold Chain and Logistics (CCL) specialist (Eastern and Southern African region).
Nature of Penalty Clause in Contract
If the final reports and documents are not submitted according to the deliverables stated in this TOR, the payments will be withheld. UNICEF reserves the right to withhold all or a portion of payment if performance is unsatisfactory, if work/outputs is incomplete, not delivered or for failure to meet deadlines (fees reduced due to late submission: 20 days – 10%; 1 month -20%; 2 months -30%; more 2 months – payment withhold). All materials developed will remain the copyright of UNICEF and UNICEF will be free to adapt and modify them in the future.
For every Child, you demonstrate…
UNICEF’s core values of Commitment, Diversity and Integrity and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.
The competencies required for this post are….
View our competency framework at http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/files/UNICEF_Competencies.pdf
UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.
UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.
Remarks:
Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with UNICEF and an underlying premise of the international civil service.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date Fri Apr 12 2019 21:55:00 GMT+0100 (Afr. centrale Ouest)