EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - SOCIAL CARTOGRAPHIC GUIDE TO WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN MAPPING PROCESSES IN KENYA

 

Introduction

The Kenya Land Alliance is a Non-Governmental Organization working towards securing and protecting land rights in Kenya. We are currently seeking expressions of interest from experienced and qualified consultants to undertake a social cartographic guide to women's participation in mapping processes.

The purpose of this project is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the social structures, institutions, and networks that affect women's participation in different spheres of life, and to identify the barriers and opportunities for women's empowerment and gender equality.

Objective of the assignment

The objective of this project is to promote the inclusion of women in social cartographic mapping processes in Kenya, particularly in the context of land use and management. The project aims to address the challenges that limit women's participation and representation in mapping processes, including lack of gender-sensitive data and mapping tools, limited representation of women in the mapping profession, and social and cultural barriers that restrict women's mobility and participation in public life.

The justification for undertaking a social cartographic guide to women's participation in the mapping process in Kenya stems from several important reasons such as:

1. Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment: Promoting gender equality and women's empowerment is a fundamental aspect of sustainable development. By focusing on women's participation in the mapping process, we aim to address the existing gender gaps in decision-making, access to resources, and representation. This project aligns with national and international commitments to gender equality, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Kenya's Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Policy.

2. Enhancing Decision-Making Processes: Including women's perspectives and experiences in the mapping process will enrich the decision-making processes related to land use and management. Women, as key users and stewards of the land, possess valuable knowledge about resource management, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. By incorporating their insights, we can make more informed and inclusive decisions that reflect the diverse needs of all stakeholders.

3. Addressing Gender-Specific Challenges: Women face specific challenges related to land ownership, access, and control. By conducting a gender analysis within the mapping process, we can identify and address these challenges, such as discriminatory land tenure systems, unequal access to credit and resources, and limited representation in decision-making bodies. This project will contribute to reducing gender disparities and ensuring fair and equitable outcomes in the mapping process.

4. Enhancing Data Accuracy and Relevance: Gender-sensitive mapping tools and methodologies are essential for capturing accurate and relevant data. By considering the specific needs and perspectives of women, we can improve the accuracy of spatial data, resulting in more effective planning, resource allocation and policy formulation. This, in turn, will lead to more targeted interventions and sustainable development outcomes.

5. Building Capacity and Collaboration: The project will provide opportunities for training, capacity-building, and collaboration among mapping professionals, women's groups, and policymakers. This will foster knowledge sharing, networking, and joint problem-solving, creating a more cohesive and empowered ecosystem for women's participation in the mapping process. Strengthening partnerships and collaboration will contribute to the sustainability and long-term impact of the project.

In conclusion, undertaking a social cartographic guide to women's participation in mapping processes in Kenya is a crucial step towards promoting gender equality, empowering women, and ensuring more inclusive and sustainable land use and management. By addressing the existing barriers, leveraging women's knowledge and experiences, and promoting gender-sensitive mapping practices, we can create positive change and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous society.

Scope of services:

1. Review existing literature and mapping practices related to women's participation in the mapping process in Kenya, including gender-sensitive mapping tools and technologies.

2. Conduct consultations with key stakeholders, including women's groups, mapping professionals, policymakers, and other relevant actors to identify the key challenges and opportunities for women's participation in the mapping process in Kenya.

3. Develop a gender-sensitive mapping guide that outlines best practices and strategies for promoting women's participation and representation in the mapping process.

4. Develop training materials and conduct capacity-building activities for mapping professionals and other stakeholders on gender-sensitive mapping and data collection methodologies.

5. Facilitate the establishment of a network of mapping professionals and women's groups to promote ongoing collaboration and dialogue on gender-sensitive mapping and data collection.

6. Conduct pilot testing of the gender-sensitive mapping guide and training materials in selected areas to assess its effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.

7. Develop a policy brief outlining the key recommendations for promoting women's participation and representation in social cartographic mapping processes in Kenya, and engage in advocacy efforts with policymakers and other stakeholders to promote the implementation of these recommendations.

Key deliverables

The consultant will work closely with Kenya Land Alliance designated staff. All deliverables shall be submitted in English to KLA and any other relevant stakeholder. The consultant is expected to submit following key deliverables;

1. Inception report: Outlining details of activities with proposed methodology and timelines/ delivery dates.

2. Conduct the mentioned key activities as outlined in the ‘Scope of services’.

3. Draft report of findings and analysis with recommendations for review and validation.

4. A final policy brief with clear policy recommendations.

Required qualifications and experience:

1. Advanced degree in social sciences, gender studies, development studies, geography, mapping, or related fields.

2. At least 5 years of experience in conducting research, analysis, and advocacy on gender equality and women's empowerment.

3. Expertise in participatory research methods, including surveys, focus groups, and interviews.

4. Experience in developing social cartographic guides and visual tools to support advocacy and policy change.

5. Strong writing, communication, and advocacy skills.

Duration of assignment

The assignment is expected to take 30 days from the date of commencement.

How to apply

The consultant is expected to submit the following information:

1. A proposed metodology.

2. A detailed work plan with a timeframe.

3. Financial Proposal Inicating the consultancy fees.

4. Detailed profile of the applicant, with previous expereince included.

5. At least a copy of a completed similar assignment.

6. Profile of the firm and/ or CVs of the Consultant (s).

The consultant will be expected to work closely with our team, including the project coordinator and other stakeholders, to ensure the project meets its objectives and is delivered on time and within budget.

Kenya Land Alliance is committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in Kenya, particularly in the context of land use and management. We are seeking professors who share this commitment and have experience in conducting similar projects.

Contacts

Any interested consultants (firms and individuals) with relevant experience in conducting similar assignments are invited to submit their Expression of Interest/bid by close of business on 23rd May, 2023 addressed to [email protected] and copy [email protected]. The subject/ title of your email should be: KLA Social Cartographic Guide to Women's Participation in Mapping Processes Consultancy.

Only finalized bids will be considered and only shortlisted firms and individuals will be contacted. In case of any queries or further clarifications please feel free to reach out to Betty Soi on 0731282207.

Any form of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.