Terms of References – Consultants

Ltome-Katip Indigenous-Led Monitoring for Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation and Climate Resilience

Selection of Consultants for the following positions: Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Shuar community (Ecuador), Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Samburu community (Kenya), International Scientific Liaison (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador), International Remote Sensing Specialist  (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador), Indigenous Shuar communicator (Ecuador), Indigenous Samburu communicator (Kenya), Data Coordinator & Analyst (Samburu, Kenya), Data Coordinator & Analyst (Ecuador)

Pastaza, Puyo, Ecuador & Samburu, Kenya

May 2024 – August 2025

16 months for each role

Project background:

We invite qualified consultants to submit proposals for providing expert services for the Ltome-Katip Indigenous-Led Monitoring for Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation and Climate Resilience project, a finalist of the LACUNA Meridian Machine Learning datasets. This groundbreaking initiative aims to address the urgent need for Indigenous-labelled data for machine learning, with a focus on mitigating bias and uncertainty in AI models. The project will be implemented in the Amazon jungle (Pastaza, Ecuador) and northern Kenya (Samburu), engaging Indigenous communities in data collection, labelling, and mapping processes.

Who we are:

The Namunyak Conservancy, owned by Indigenous Samburu families, exemplifies Kenya's progressive community conservancy model. Our conservation efforts have restored a once-scrub-covered landscape, creating a haven for over 4,000 elephants and establishing Africa's first community-owned Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. Led by dedicated teams, including Samburu women keepers, Reteti rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves, fostering a transformative approach to wildlife conservation and empowering local communities. Our Indigenous leadership, local knowledge, and strong community relationships will enable effective engagement and collaboration with the communities.

Scope of Work:

The consultancy services will encompass the following key areas:

• Data Collection: Deployment of camera traps, bioacoustic and weather sensors, and drones in strategic locations.
• Indigenous Labelling: Involvement of Indigenous communities in labelling collected data to ensure cultural relevance and accuracy.
• Indigenous Mapping: Development of culturally relevant maps merging Indigenous knowledge with scientific Earth observation data.
• Scientific Objectives: Enhancing Indigenous communities' capacity to monitor biodiversity, track wildlife migration patterns, and assess weather patterns.
• Dataset Management: Curation and maintenance of an extensive dataset enriched by Indigenous labelling.

Deliverables

Deliverable I: Approval from communities & determining location of sensors

• Develop a detailed project plan, timeline and budget.
• Identify the communities to work with and establish partnerships with local organisations.
• Determine the locations for placing bioacoustic, weather sensors, drones, and camera traps.
• Secure necessary permits and permissions for sensor placement.

Deliverable II: Planning and Preparation

• Define project objectives, including the development of a map to help communities better understand weather patterns and wildlife conflict.
• Identify additional  stakeholders and potential collaborators.
• Purchase equipment (drones, camera traps, weather stations, acoustic sensors, mobile phones). Train rangers on the use of equipment.

Deliverable III: Sensor Placement and Data Collection

• Deploy sensors in the selected field sites in Northern Kenya, and the Ecuadorian Amazon.
• Collect and store data on weather patterns, sounds,elephant behaviour, and rat populations.

Deliverable IV: Indigenous Labelling and Data Analysis Community Engagement

• Label data through community engagement  to develop culturally relevant and appropriate machine learning models.
• Analyze collected data to identify patterns and trends in weather patterns and wildlife conflict.
• Develop effective strategies to manage human-wildlife conflicts and mitigate the impact of rats on crops.

Deliverable V: Map Creation and Community Engagement

• Co-create Indigenous maps that show weather patterns and identify areas of high wildlife conflict.
• Conduct community workshops to explain the map and its applications.
• Work with the community to update and maintain the map.

Deliverable VI: Reporting and Dissemination Phase

• Develop a comprehensive report summarising the project's findings, methodology, and outcomes.
• Disseminate findings through channels such as social media, scientific journals, and international conferences.
• Ensure the map is accessible to a wide range of stakeholders and users, including local and national authorities, researchers, and conservationists.

Deliverable VII:  Final Project Evaluation Phase

• Evaluate the project's impact on the community and its contribution to scientific knowledge.
• Assess the project's strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for improvement.
• Use the evaluation to inform future projects and initiatives.

Deliverable VIII: Evaluation and Monitoring

• Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies developed and the map created.
• Monitor the use of the map by local communities, and make adjustments as needed.

Qualifications and Expertise:

We seek consultants with expertise in the following areas:

• Unique Skills in Working with Indigenous Peoples: Demonstrated ability to engage respectfully and effectively with Indigenous communities, understanding cultural protocols and sensitivities.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English and/or Spanish and fluency in either Shuar, Samburu, or Swahili.
• Experience Working with Indigenous Peoples: Proven track record of collaborating with Indigenous communities on environmental and conservation projects, ensuring meaningful participation and co-design of initiatives.
• Knowledge of Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles: Familiarity with principles such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), FPIC,  ensuring respect for Indigenous data ownership and governance.
• Cultural Competency: Understanding of Fair with Care principles, emphasizing ethical conduct, reciprocity, and community benefit in research and data collection processes.
• A degree in remote sensing, geography, geodesy, data science, geographic information systems, information technology or any closely related field.

Proposal Submission:

Interested consultants are requested to submit the following documents:

• Proposal: Including a detailed methodology for each scope of work and  proposed timeline. Providing a breakdown of costs for each deliverable and associated expenses. (2 pages max)
• Up to date CV: Highlighting relevant experience, qualifications, and past projects.
• References: Contact details of at least three references from previous clients or projects.

Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Technical expertise and methodology.

• Experience and qualifications, particularly in working with Indigenous Peoples and geospatial data.
• Language proficiency and cultural competency.
• Cost-effectiveness and budget compliance.

4. TERMS OF ASSIGNMENT

a. INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS QUALIFICATIONS

The individual consultants shall demonstrate that they have the requisite expertise and experience to conduct part or all of the tasks contained in these terms of reference. The individual consultants are expected to consist of a Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Shuar community (Ecuador), Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Shuar community (Kenya), International Scientific Liaison (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador), International Remote Sensing Specialist  (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador), Indigenous Shuar communicator (Ecuador), Indigenous Shuar communicator (Kenya), Data Coordinator & Analyst (Samburu, Kenya), Data Coordinator & Analyst (Ecuador)

• Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Shuar community (Ecuador)

-A degree in remote sensing, geography, geodesy, data science, geographic information systems, information technology or any closely related field.

-At least 5 years’ experience in the use of Python, Geopandas, Jupyter Notebooks, QGIS, GDAL or other similar tools.

-Fluency in Spanish and Shuar. Proficiency in English is a plus.

-At least 5 years’ experience working with the Shuar Nation in Ecuador

• Project Manager & Indigenous Liaison Samburu community (Kenya)

-A degree in remote sensing, geography, geodesy, data science, geographic information systems, information technology or any closely related field.

-At least 5 years’ experience in the use of geospatial tools.

-Fluency in English, Samburu and Swahili.

-At least 5 years’ experience working with the Samburu and neighbouring tribes.

• International Scientific Liaison (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador)

-An advanced degree( M.Sc. or PhD)  in remote sensing, geography, geodesy, data science, geographic information systems, information technology with anthropology and/or political science

 -At least 5 years’ experience in the use of geospatial tools.

-Fluency in English & Spanish.

-At least 5 years’ experience working with Shuar Nation and Samburu tribe.

-Excellent writing, analysis and communication skills in English & Spanish  and experience in preparing training materials, technical reports and presentations in language and formats accessible to the audience.

• International Remote Sensing Specialist  (Remote with travel to Kenya and Ecuador)

-An advanced degree (M.Sc. or PhD) in remote sensing, geography, geodesy, data science, geographic information systems, information technology or any closely related field.

-At least 10 years of experience in multi-modal remote sensing with a focus on the coupling of imaging with modelling for application to monitoring human and natural terrestrial systems.

-Experience in the field deploying weather and acoustic sensors

-At least 10 years of experience in delivering training programs or workshops in person and virtually.

-Fluency in English.

• Indigenous Shuar communicator (Ecuador)

-Fluency in Shuar language with proficiency in Spanish. Knowledge of English is advantageous.

-Demonstrated experience in community outreach and communication within the Shuar community.

-Ability to effectively convey technical information in a culturally appropriate and accessible manner.

-At least 3 years of experience working closely with the Shuar community on communication projects.

• Indigenous Samburu communicator (Kenya)

-Fluency in Samburu and/or Swahili languages with proficiency in English.

-Proven track record of effective communication and engagement with the Samburu and neighboring tribes.

-Ability to translate technical information into culturally relevant and understandable content.

-At least 3 years of experience in community outreach and communication within the Samburu community.

• Data Coordinator & Analyst (Samburu, Kenya)

-Degree in statistics, computer science, data science, or a related field.

-Proficiency in data management and analysis tools such as R, Python, or SQL.

-At least 5 years of experience in coordinating and analyzing large datasets related to environmental or conservation projects.

-Familiarity with the socio-economic context and data needs of the Samburu community.

-At least 3 years of experience in data coordination and analysis in Kenya, preferably within the Samburu region.

-Excellent writing, analysis and communication skills in English and Samburu and/or Swahili and experience in preparing training materials, technical reports and presentations in language and formats accessible to the audience.

-At least 5 years of experience in delivering training programs or workshops in person and virtually.

• Data Coordinator & Analyst (Amazon, Ecuador)

-Degree in statistics, computer science, data science, or a related field.

Proficiency in data management and analysis tools such as R, Python, or SQL.

-At least 5 years of experience in coordinating and analyzing large datasets related to environmental or conservation projects.

-Familiarity with the socio-economic context and data needs of Indigenous communities in the Amazon region.

-At least 3 years of experience in data coordination and analysis in Ecuador, preferably within the Amazon region.

-Excellent writing, analysis and communication skills in Spanish and Shuar and experience in preparing training materials, technical reports and presentations in language and formats accessible to the audience.

-At least 5 years of experience in delivering training programs or workshops in person and virtually.

Please submit your application to angelaspace993@gmail.com by April 28th, 2024 with the subject “Ltome-Katip Consultant”.

The Ltome-Katip project presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the intersection of Indigenous knowledge, technology, and environmental conservation. We look forward to receiving comprehensive proposals from qualified consultants who share our commitment to empowering Indigenous communities and addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Seeking a start-up, NGO or International Organization

We are seeking a reputable company, NGO or international organization to oversee the implementation of the Ltome-Katip Indigenous-Led Monitoring for Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation and Climate Resilience project in Ecuador and Kenya. The chosen organization will play a crucial role in ensuring the project's success by managing logistics, facilitating community engagement, and ensuring the integrity and quality of data collection and analysis. The organization should possess the following qualifications and expertise:

Responsibilities:

Project Coordination:

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the project, ensuring adherence to the project timeline and budget.
• Coordinate the deployment of technology and fieldwork activities, including the placement of bioacoustic and weather sensors, drones, and camera traps.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration among all project stakeholders, including consultants, Indigenous communities, and local authorities.

Community Engagement:

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with Indigenous communities in the Amazon region.
• Ensure meaningful participation and engagement of Indigenous communities throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct workshops and training sessions to build local capacity in data collection, labelling, and mapping.

Technical and Scientific Guidance:

• Provide technical support and scientific oversight to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the data collected.
• Ensure that data collection methods and analysis adhere to best practices and ethical standards, particularly regarding Indigenous data sovereignty.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Regularly report on project outcomes, challenges, and lessons learned to stakeholders and funders.

Dissemination of Findings:

• Develop and execute a strategy for disseminating the project's findings to a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, researchers, conservationists, and policymakers.
• Utilize various channels such as social media, scientific journals, and international conferences to share results and promote the project's impact.

Qualifications and Expertise:

Experience in Environmental and Conservation Projects:

• Proven track record of managing environmental and conservation projects, particularly those involving remote sensing and data analysis.
• Experience with projects in the Amazon region and Kenya and working with Indigenous communities.

Technical Expertise:

• Strong background in remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and data management.

Community Engagement:

Demonstrated ability to engage respectfully and effectively with Indigenous communities, understanding cultural protocols and sensitivities.

Experience in capacity-building and training programs for local communities.

Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge:

• Familiarity with local, national, and international regulations related to environmental monitoring and data collection.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Expertise in developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess project impact and outcomes.
• Ability to adapt and improve project strategies based on evaluation findings.

Dissemination and Communication:

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Experience in preparing and disseminating reports, publications, and presentations.

Application Process:

Interested NGOs or international organizations are requested to submit the following documents:

Proposal: Including a detailed methodology for overseeing the project, proposed timeline, and a breakdown of costs for each deliverable and associated expenses. (3 pages max)

References: Contact details of at least three references from previous clients or projects.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Experience and qualifications in managing similar projects

.

• Technical expertise and methodology.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with Indigenous communities.
• Compliance and regulatory knowledge.
• Cost-effectiveness and budget compliance.

Please submit your application to angelaspace993@gmail.com by April 28th, 2024 with the subject “Ltome-Katip NGO/Organization Application”.