Hiring Office:
UNFPA West and Central Africa Regional Office
Title:
International Consultancy to support Census processes in West and Central Africa (P4 Level)

Background
In most countries, population censuses remain the primary source of information for obtaining accurate data on population size, spatial distribution, and demographic and socio-economic characteristics. These censuses are crucial for producing detailed and disaggregated subnational data for small geographic areas and population subgroups. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) recognizes the importance of accurate and reliable census data for evidence-based decision-making in population programs. This consultancy aims to support UNFPA’s efforts in strengthening national capacities in the planning, implementation, and analysis of population censuses in West and Central Africa.


Purpose of consultancy
The primary objectives of this consultancy are to:
• Provide technical expertise: Offer expert guidance and advice on various aspects of census planning, implementation, and analysis, ensuring alignment with international standards and best practices.
• Capacity building: Enhance the capacity of national statistical offices and other relevant institutions in census methodologies, data collection techniques, and data processing, enabling them to conduct future censuses independently
• Quality assurance: Ensure the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of census data through the development and implementation of quality control measures throughout the census process.
• Data analysis: Assist in the analysis and interpretation of census data to produce meaningful insights and support policy development.

Scope of Work
The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:
Needs assessment: Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current state of census activities, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This includes reviewing existing census legislation, infrastructure, methodologies, and resources.

Technical advice: Provide expert guidance on various aspects of census planning, including:
• Census design and methodology, ensuring the use of appropriate sampling techniques and data collection methods.
• Development and adaptation of data collection instruments, such as questionnaires and manuals, to the specific context of the target countries.
• Data processing and analysis techniques, including the use of statistical software and data visualization tools.
• Development and implementation of quality control measures at each stage of the census process.
Capacity building: Conduct training programs and workshops to enhance the skills and knowledge of census staff at various levels, including:
• Training on census methodologies, data collection techniques, and data processing procedures.
Workshops on data analysis and interpretation, focusing on the use of census data for policy development.
Mentoring and on-the-job support to census staff to strengthen their technical expertise.

Quality assurance: Develop and implement quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of census data. This includes:
• Establishing data quality standards and validation procedures.
• Conducting field visits to monitor data collection activities and provide on-site support.
• Developing and implementing data cleaning and editing procedures to address inconsistencies and errors.
Data analysis: Assist in the analysis and interpretation of census data to produce meaningful insights for policymakers and researchers. This includes:
• Generating descriptive statistics and conducting demographic analysis to understand population trends and patterns.
• Producing thematic maps and data visualizations to communicate census findings effectively.
• Developing analytical reports and policy briefs to inform policy development and program planning.
Report writing: Prepare comprehensive reports summarizing the findings of the consultancy and providing recommendations for future actions. This includes:
• Needs assessment report detailing the current state of census activities and identifying areas for improvement.
• Technical advice and recommendations on census planning, implementation, and analysis.
• Training materials and evaluation reports documenting the capacity building activities.
• Census manuals for data collection and data analysis, providing step-by-step guidance to census staff.
• Quality control plan and implementation report outlining the quality assurance measures and their effectiveness.
• Data analysis reports presenting the key findings of the census data analysis.
• Final consultancy report summarizing the achievements, challenges, and lessons learned from the consultancy.

Deliverables
The consultant will deliver the following outputs:
• Inception report: Outlining the consultant’s understanding of the assignment, proposed methodology, and work plan (due within two weeks of starting the consultancy).
• Needs assessment report: (due within the first month)
• Technical advice and recommendations: (ongoing throughout the consultancy)
• Training materials and evaluation reports: (submitted after each training or workshop)
• Census manuals for data collection and data analysis: (due by the third month)
• Quality control plan and implementation report: (due by the fourth month)
• Data analysis reports: (submitted as per agreed schedule with UNFPA)
• Final consultancy report: (due at the end of the consultancy)

Qualifications and Experience
The consultant should possess the following qualifications and experience:
• Advanced degree, preferably PhD, in statistics, demography, or a related field
• Minimum of 10 years of proven experience in conducting and managing censuses or large-scale surveys, including experience in developing countries.
• Strong understanding of international census standards, methodologies, and best practices.
• Expertise in data collection, processing, analysis, and dissemination, including the use of statistical software packages (e.g., CSPro, SPSS, Stata, R).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and report writing skills
• Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments and to build consensus among stakeholders.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans for census activities.
• Fluency in English and/or French is required.

Timeline
The consultancy is expected to be completed within six months, with the possibility of an extension based on the needs of the project and the performance of the consultant.
Place where services are to be delivered:
The consultancy will be primarily home based with possible travel to West African countries as required for needs assessment, training, or on-site support. The specific countries and duration of travel will be determined in consultation with UNFPA.


Reporting and Monitoring
The consultant will report to the Population and Data Advisor and will be subject to regular monitoring and evaluation. The consultant will submit monthly progress reports summarizing activities, achievements, and challenges encountered. The Population and Data Advisor will conduct regular meetings with the consultant to review progress, provide feedback, and ensure alignment with project objectives.