Job Details

Job Description

Call for applications for Technical Specialist in Agriculture for the Industrial Development Corporation Limited (IDC).

The Industrial Development Corporation is in the process of developing an agricultural sector development strategy focused on the establishment of mega farms and agro processing capacity to ensure the generation of foreign exchange through exports and diversification of the economy. The intention of the IDC is to design a strategy that focuses on improving agro productivity, value addition, food security
and market access to support sustained economic growth.

The strategy will aim to identify areas that IDC could intervene in to stimulate agricultural production on a national scale through support to, inter alia, R&D, Infrastructure Development, capacity building, market diversification, quality assurance, promotion of agro-processing, climate resilience and sustainable farming practices, and development of an effective M& E system.

The initial mega farms to be developed by IDC include, among others, Luombwa Agro Limited in the Nansanga Farm Block, Serenje District and Agro Luswishi Limited.

Luombwa Agro Limited and Agro Luswishi Limited currently own 6,050-hectares and 7,872- hectares respectively. Both projects aim to develop, construct, and operationalize an integrated agricultural farming hub with an initial focus on maize production for the local and regional market.

IDC is seeking to acquire the services of a suitably qualified candidate to spearhead the development and implementation of its agriculture strategy and agriculture focused projects as per the terms below:

SECTION CONTENT
Project
Development and implementation of Agricultural strategy and operationalization of agriculture focused projects.
Job Title & Grade
Technical Specialist – Agriculture, Grade TS1
Employment Type & Tenure
Short-Term Employment for Twelve (12) Months
Reporting & Department

Chief Investments Officer – Investments Department

Roles and responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities of the specialist will include the following:
Developing and implementing an agri-business strategy and business cases for the projects.
Overseeing and managing agricultural projects covering planning and execution to ensure they are completed timeously, within budget, and in compliance with applicable regulations and standards.
Assessing the distribution of different land types and soils and producing soil and crop suitability maps for the farms.

Qualifications
Master’s degree or higher qualification in agriculture, agronomy, crop science, or a related field.
Post graduate qualification in business administration, economics or finance will be an added advantage.

7. Relevant Work Experience (indicating the desirable experience)
Minimum 10 years relevant work experience with at least 5 years in senior roles. Experience in the Zambian context will be an added advantage.
In-depth knowledge of agricultural principles, practices, and techniques including understanding soil science, crop physiology, pest management, irrigation systems, and agricultural economics.
Direct experience with crop production, soil management, and agricultural operations.
Proficiency in using agricultural technologies and tools. Familiarity with precision agriculture technologies, GIS/GPS systems, agricultural machinery, and software for data analysis and farm management.
Flexibility and ability to adjust strategies based on evolving needs including climates, soil conditions, and agricultural practices.
Proficiency in project planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Ability to champion building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including farmers, government agencies, research institutions, and agricultural organizations.
Strong commitment to sustainable agriculture practices, including conservation of natural resources, environmental stewardship, and resilience to climate change.
Awareness of relevant regulations, policies, and standards governing agricultural practices.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Effective communication skills.

Deliverables
Develop bankable agriculture sector development strategy and implementation plan.
Operationalization of at least one mega farm by Q4 2024.
Develop comprehensive plans for crop production, including selection of appropriate crop varieties, planting schedules, fertilization strategies, and pest and disease management protocols.
Develop comprehensive plans for soil tests and analyses to assess soil fertility, structure, and nutrient levels. Recommend appropriate soil management practices to optimize crop productivity and sustainability.
Design Pest Management programs to minimize the impact of pests and diseases on crop yields while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
Provide expertise in designing efficient irrigation systems tailored to specific crops and environmental conditions. Optimize water usage, scheduling, and distribution methods to ensure adequate moisture for plant growth while conserving water resources.
Collaborate with research institutions and agricultural organizations to conduct field trials, experiments, and studies aimed at addressing key challenges in crop production, soil management, and agricultural sustainability.
Collect, analyze, and interpret agricultural data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. Prepare reports and presentations summarizing findings, insights, and recommendations for stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, certifications, and best practices related to agricultural environmental protection and sustainability.
Manage agricultural projects from inception, overseeing budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and evaluation of project outcomes.
Coordinate activities with multidisciplinary teams, partners, and stakeholders to achieve project objectives effectively.

Application
To apply for this role, send your application letter, Curriculum Vitae (CV), copies of the NRC, Grade 12 Certificate, academic and professional qualifications to the following address on no later than Wednesday, 27th March 2024:
The Chief Human Capital Officer,
Industrial Development Corporation Limited,
61 Independence Avenue,
P.O Box 37232,
Lusaka, Zambia.