Project managers for AsgiSA Eastern Cape projects "AsgiSA Eastern Cape (EC) seeks the services of empowered and experienced individuals/services providers with a proven track record and capacity in project management and agricultural support services. AsgiSA EC is involved in facilitating the implementation of high impact priority programmes with dry-land integrated cropping as one of its flagship programmes. The target is to have under sustainable commercial community production 100, 000 hectares (ha) planted within the next five years. Towards this target 12, 000 ha have been planted and 50, 000 ha identified. There is scope for 500, 000 ha within the Eastern Cape Province. To achieve these ambitious targets and commitments will require partners who are willing to take financial risks and partner with both communities and AsgiSA EC. It is envisaged that within this five-year period, various rural communities will release their lands for production and form co-operatives that will be supported and developed to be independent and operate successful agro-industrial enterprises. Initial support given to co-operatives will require strong project management support linked to the AsgiSA EC technical support and project management office monitoring and evaluation system. The services required include: • • • • • • •
Project management support Production planning, implementation and monitoring and financial management Capacity to manage the procurement of goods and services as defined in the production plan and in compliance with applicable legislation Skills transfer at all stages of project development Community liaison and stakeholder engagement Development and support of local based contractors Introduction of labor intensive methods in all aspects of production to promote job creation
Whilst profitability and sustainability is the driving force, it is however recognised that there is no control on prices. Targets set and to be agreed to include: • • • •
Cost management Stock control Yield improvement in the case of crops Stock and productivity improvement in the case of livestock
• Community and co-operative participation • Skills transfer A three-year performance based project management contract with AsgiSA EC will be signed. Service providers will have a presence at project level, be visible and represent the interest of AsgiSA EC and other funders. Value, innovation and practical ideas are highly recommended. Criteria to be used for short listing of partners include: • • • •
Skills set - project management Demonstrated capacity to deliver the required services Empowerment Sustainability of the business
The following documents should be provided: • • • • •
Letter (statement) of interest and demonstrating CV of individuals to be involved Approach and methodology demonstrating understanding of the requirements BBBEE status Tax clearance certificate
NB: Project managers currently appointed by AsgiSA EC are also required to apply. Closing date: 05TH June 2010 Enquiries can be directed to Mr T. Mashologu (Manager: Agriculture & Agro-processing) on 082 414 7388