Overview
The role supports and contributes to leading the technical work on horticulture value chain development within Rwanda’s fruit tree-based restoration programme. The purpose is to translate the programme into tangible, field-level results by designing and overseeing the establishment of large-scale, climate-resilient fruit production systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the detailed design of the national Fruit Tree-Based Restoration and Value Chain Development Programme.
- Contribute to the development of a phased implementation plan for the establishment of up to 20 million grafted fruit trees including avocado, macadamia, mango, pomegranate, grapes.
- Conduct mapping exercise within Kigali City and other relevant provinces to identify priority sites for fruit tree establishment, including degraded hillsides and marshlands.
- Contribute to landscape zoning and planning to ensure optimal integration of fruit trees within current or planned landscapes.
- Provide technical guidance on climate-resilient agroforestry systems, including species selection, orchard establishment models, and integration within landscape restoration approaches.
- Develop technical packages and guidelines for fruit tree production, including nursery standards, planting protocols, and maintenance practices.
- Ensure alignment with national strategies (PSTA5, NDC 3.0, land use plans, and green growth strategies).
- Support the establishment and certification of high-quality fruit tree nurseries, including public, private, and community-based systems.
- Develop and implement quality assurance protocols for grafted planting materials.
- Strengthen supply chain systems for timely production and distribution of seedlings across priority sites.
- Ensure alignment with national land use frameworks and environmental safeguards.
- Facilitate coordination among key stakeholders, including government institutions, districts, private sector actors, and development partners.
- Support the preparation of concept notes and full proposals targeting potential donors including climate finance windows (GCF, GEF-9, Adaptation Fund among others).
- Perform any other related duties as may be requested by the supervisor.
Required Experience
- At least 10 years of professional experience in Horticulture, Agroforestry value chains.
- Demonstrated experience working with farmer organizations, cooperatives, and MSMEs.
- Prior experience working with FAO or similar TA projects is an asset.
Qualifications
• A master’s degree in Horticulture, Agroforestry, Agriculture or any related field.
