Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) is an International Organization whose objective is to promote sustainable agricultural development in Africa through the promotion of use of high quality seed by African farmers. With a view to strengthening its operations, AFSTA is inviting applications for the recruitment of the following position:

Title: Technical Officer
Duty station: AFSTA Secretariat, Nairobi, Kenya

Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Secretary General of the African Seed Trade Association, the Technical Officer would be in charge of the following:

1. Prepare for any AFSTA technical documents (position papers, technical presentation, report, etc.), which are necessary in the pursuance of the AFSTA objectives;
2. Organize technical training and other meetings in accordance with the approved program of work;
3. Keep updated documentation on the African seed sector to be available for further reference especially for the International seed bodies (ISTA, OECD, ISF, UPOV and FAO) for AFSTA members;
4. Prepare proposals for joint action programs with other international and regional bodies;
5. Follow up any AFSTA seed projects and update in timely manner the Secretary General on any possible actions that would be necessary for good performance of such projects;
6. Work closely with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in Africa to  undertake any seed activities such as harmonization of seed regulations and policies;
7. Consult and sensitize seed stakeholders at national level with a view to creating new National Seed Trade Association in the countries without Seed Association;
8. Monitor the implementation of the AFSTA strategic plan to make sure that it is on track and keep momentum;
9. Undertake any reasonable request made by the Secretary General of AFSTA in the pursuance of the objectives of the Association.

Required qualifications

• A least a Master Degree in Agricultural Science or Agronomist or any related discipline with strong knowledge of agricultural development in general and the seed sector in particular;
• Self-disciplined and conscientious to perform independently his/her duties without too much guidance;
• At least 5 years of successful experiences in agricultural sector development and preferably in the seed sector;
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team to achieve common goals in a challenging environment;
• Good interpersonal skills to communicate clearly and effectively at all levels;
• Excellent spoken and written English with basic working knowledge in French (bilingual is a plus) to express clearly and concisely ideas and concepts;
• Strong computer skills – Microsoft Office and Internet.

Duration of the position

One (1) year with possibility of renewal subject to good performance and availability of funds.

Application

The application has to be sent by electronic mail to the Secretary General of the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) at afsta@afsta.org with copy to rasaona@yahoo.com before 30th August and comprises of a detailed Curriculum Vitae with recent passport size photograph and a motivation letter.