Result of ServiceTo coordinate the effective implementation of the work programme for the Data Governance Projects in Burundi, Tanzania, DRC, and Mozambique, advancing key components of data governance such as policy harmonization, data protection, cross-border data flows, capacity development, and alignment with regional and continental frameworks, including the AU Data Policy Framework and the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade. Work LocationHybrid Expected duration8 months Duties and Responsibilities1. Background Africa’s digital transformation is generating massive data from mobile, financial, and online sources. However, much of this data is processed outside the continent, leaving African countries unable to fully benefit from its economic potential. Current data governance in Africa is fragmented, with inconsistent laws and regulations, leaving countries vulnerable to cyber threats and privacy violations. While frameworks like the AU Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) and the recently enforced Malabo Convention provide guiding principles, only a limited number of African nations have adopted these frameworks or developed robust data protection policies. Consequently, data breaches, regulatory gaps, and unequal access to data-driven opportunities persist. To address these challenges, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), as the implementing partner, and GIZ, as the donor, are collaborating to strengthen data governance frameworks and promote policy harmonization across the continent. Their work supports the alignment of national data policies with regional standards, such as the AU Data Policy Framework and the AfCFTA’s Protocol on Digital Trade. The initiative will focus on developing comprehensive Data Governance Strategies for Burundi, Mozambique, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In addition, the project will deliver capacity-building programs for national agencies to enable effective enforcement of data protection laws and management of cross-border data flows. ECA and GIZ will begin by conducting a Data Governance Needs Assessment in the target countries to identify regulatory gaps, prioritize national data governance challenges, and outline technical prerequisites for sustainable policy enforcement. This will be followed by the development of National Data Governance Frameworks and Implementation Roadmaps, aligning national efforts with regional and continental strategies to promote a unified and inclusive African data market. Additionally, ECA will engage stakeholders through workshops and peer-review processes to ensure that these frameworks address the diverse socio-economic and digital maturity levels across the selected member states. As a leading institution on data governance and digital policy in Africa, ECA will leverage its expertise, convening power, and partnership with GIZ to empower member states with the necessary knowledge, tools, and technical assistance for effective data governance. The 1.5-year project aims to build capacity, strengthen institutional capabilities, and foster data-driven growth across Africa, ultimately contributing to socio-economic development and digital resilience in the region. 2. Duties and Responsibilities Under the guidance of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity, and Infrastructure Division (TICID) and the supervision of the Chief of the Technologies, Innovation and Digital Transformation Section and the Coordinator of Digital Centre of Excellence on Digital ID, Trade, and Economy, the Consultant will perform the following tasks: - Manage the overall planning, execution, and monitoring of the project activities in the four countries, Burundi, Tanzania, DRC, and Mozambique. - Ensure effective collaboration with donor, national stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector actors, and civil society organizations. - Develop detailed work plans, timelines, and milestones for each activity. - Manage the development and validate tailored implementation roadmaps through stakeholder engagement and feedback integration. - Oversee the design and delivery of capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and workshops to support data governance implementation. - Support in monitoring the budget and work programme of the Data Governance Strategy initiatives in each country, ensuring alignment with project goals. - Manage project and financial aspects for the implementation of data governance frameworks coordinating timelines and resource allocation effectively. - Review, analyze, and assist in the finalization of cost estimates, budget proposals, and financial reports for each country’s data governance project, ensuring alignment with program objectives and consistent progress. These reports will be shared with GIZ and other stakeholders to track financial performance and outcomes. - Supervise and assist the organization and convening of workshops, meetings, and events with stakeholders in target countries, ensuring all preparations, background documents, and communication materials are in place. - Support in the preparation of presentation materials on data governance topics for project stakeholders, using appropriate technology and software. - Coordinate closely with GIZ and designated focal points within Burundi, Tanzania, DRC, and Mozambique for seamless implementation and adherence to project timelines and deliverables. - Audit contractors' invoices against goods and services provided within the scope of the data governance project, ensuring compliance with UN and partner standards. - Provide regular progress updates to the project team and donor, - Document lessons learned, and best practices to inform future projects or scaling efforts. - Ensure all activities align with regional and international data governance standards and frameworks. - Promote gender and inclusivity considerations in all project deliverables and engagements. - Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced degree (Master's degree of equivalent) in Economics, History, Business, Management, Public Administration, Social Sciences, or related field or other relevant area is required. A University degree in Economics, History, Business, Management, Public Administration, Social Sciences or related field of studies with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of 6 years’ experience in coordinating programs, including programme planning, coordination, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting for capacity-building and programme development roles is required. Experience in working with international organizations and donor projects or/and proven ability to manage the development and implementation of project activities and/or experience working in the UN System is an advantage LanguagesEnglish and French are the working language of the United Nations. For the consultancy advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of the other language is desirable. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.