UN Women, MEAL Expert for Mid-term Review (MTR) of the JP RWEE, National Consultant, Home Based

Job Description

Job Description

Background:

Grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, UN Women works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between all genders as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security. Placing women’s rights at the center of all its efforts, UN Women leads and coordinates the efforts of the United Nations System to ensure that commitments on gender equality and gender mainstreaming translate into action throughout the world. It provides strong and coherent leadership in support of national priorities and efforts, building effective partnerships with government, civil society, and other relevant actors. In Nepal, UN Women, with an overarching five-year Strategic Note (SN) 2023 – 2027, aims to support the national stakeholders in advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women in line with internationally agreed normative standards that contribute to four outcome areas of the UNSDCF 2023 – 2027.

Under the framework of the current UN Women Nepal Country Office (NCO) Strategic Note 2023-2027, UN Women in Nepal continues its work to strengthen women’s leadership and participation in national and local level decision-making processes, empower women economically by supporting women, especially those from the most vulnerable and excluded groups, promote environmental sustainability, climate and disaster resilience, and transform gender discriminatory social norms and end harmful practices for inclusive and transformative human development.

Agriculture employs two-thirds of Nepal’s population and contributes 26% to GDP. Despite this, nearly 45 of 77 districts are food insufficient, and Madhesh Province, despite being in the fertile Terai region, faces serious food and agricultural challenges. Issues such as inadequate irrigation, climate-induced disasters (notably floods and desertification), and depletion of water resources due to overexploitation of the Chure hills worsen the situation. A key challenge is the large-scale male youth out-migration, especially from Madhesh and Koshi Provinces. This has led to a "feminization of agriculture," where women, who make up 80% of the agricultural workforce bear the dual burden of farming and unpaid care work. However, only 19.7% of women legally own land, and many face restricted access to services, information, and technologies, particularly in Madhesh.

Climate change, including extreme weather events, and the COVID-19 pandemic have compounded these challenges. The pandemic disrupted input supplies, markets, labor, and food value chains, causing major losses in poultry, vegetables, milk, and fisheries, and disproportionately affecting women’s employment and food security. Structural inequalities such as discriminatory migration policies, gender norms, lack of access to resources, and inappropriate agricultural technologies continue to marginalize women farmers. Despite their central role in agriculture, their contributions are undervalued, and their specific needs remain largely unaddressed in policy and practice.

To address these interconnected challenges, UN Women, in partnership with WFP, FAO, and IFAD, is implementing the Joint Programme on “Accelerating Progress Towards Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE)”, Phase II (2022–2027), under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD). JP RWEE contributes to the Government of Nepal’s Agricultural Development Strategy (ADS) and aligns with the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Strategy developed with technical assistance from the first phase of JP RWEE. The JP RWEE adopts a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to rural women’s empowerment through four interrelated outcomes:

• Improved food security and nutrition for rural women and their households that contribute to equitable and sustainable food systems.
• Rural women’s income, decent work, and economic autonomy increased to secure their livelihoods and build resilience.
• Rural women’s voice and agency increased for full and equal participation and leadership in their households, communities, organizations, and governance systems.
• Gender-responsive legal frameworks, policies, and institutions strengthened to create an enabling environment for rural women to secure their livelihoods, rights, and resilience.
  
  
  

In this context, UN Women seeks to engage a MEAL Expert to support in conducting the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Joint Programme on Accelerating Progress Toward Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE) Phase II in Nepal. The consultant will provide technical expertise to assess the programme’s performance in terms of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability, with a focus on gender-transformative outcomes and climate resilience. In close collaboration with Participating UN Organizations (PUNOs), government stakeholders at all three tiers, and local communities in Siraha and Saptari districts, the review will generate evidence-based findings to inform strategic decision-making, improve programme delivery, and enhance coordination. The MTR will play a critical role in ensuring the programme remains responsive to the needs of rural women, while contributing to policy reform, institutional learning, and long-term impact within Nepal’s agricultural and rural development sectors.

• Objectives
  
  
  

The Mid-Term Review (MTR) is an internal process designed to assess the implementation progress and performance of JP RWEE in Nepal. It aims to document key results, best practices and lessons learned to promote reflection and learning, identify challenges for corrective action through programmatic and operational adjustments while looking at the strategic/long-term vision to inform sustainability of the approach, and inform key decision-making processes such as the upcoming Annual Work Plan, the Country Exit Strategy, and the potential design of a Phase III. The MTR will cover the period from the programme's inception from May 2022 to June 2025, providing a comprehensive assessment of progress midway through the implementation cycle. As part of the MTR, a desk review will synthesize existing evidence and secondary data relevant to the programme’s performance. This includes outcome, output, and process data reported in corporate systems such as the JP RWEE Programme Management Toolkit (PMT), Annual Reports, Quarterly Activity Reports, the Beneficiary Roster, the Annual Monitoring Exercise, and all annual workplans, financial reports. This evidence base will inform the review’s findings and recommendations. The objective is to provide an independent, external perspective on programme progress, achievements, and implementation arrangements, to inform mid-course adjustments and guide future programming strategy and focus.

Specifically, the review focuses on:

• Relevance and Coherence: The extent to which synergy and collaboration among the Participating UN Organizations (PUNOs) in Nepal align with the overall programme’s objectives and contribute to tangible and positive changes in gender transformative change and climate change and resilience. It also examines the extent to which the programme demonstrates internal coherence among its components and actors, and external coherence, particularly how the initiative complements other ongoing efforts and policies related to climate resilience and gender equality in Nepal.
• Effectiveness: Evidence of progress and systemic, gender-transformative change achieved within the Nepal context, and demonstrating the programme’s effectiveness in driving meaningful change.
• Efficiency: The degree to which resources and partnerships have been strategically leveraged across the programme’s four outcome areas to achieve results in a timely and cost-effective manner and
• Sustainability: The extent to which the programme has catalysed systemic and sustainable gender-transformative change that is likely to be maintained in the long term within the country context.
  
  
  

The main outputs are a concise analytical report with clear, actionable recommendations and an accompanying action plan. These outputs will be endorsed and implemented by the JP RWEE Programme Management Unit (PMU) and the PUNOs and will inform the JP RWEE Annual Work Plan (2026).

• Geographical Scope:
  
  
  

The review covers two districts: Siraha and Saptari, focusing on five municipalities: Laxmipur Patari RM, Sakhuwanankarkatti RM, Karjanha M, Chinnamasta RM, and Tilathi Koiladi RM. It includes 13 wards in total: Karjanha M (Ward 5); Laxmipur Patari RM (Wards 1, 2, 4, 5); Sakhuwanankarkatti RM (Wards 2, 3, 4); Chinnamasta RM (Wards 3, 5); and Tilathi Koiladi RM (Wards 3, 4, 5)

• DATA AVAILABILITY
  
  
  

The main sources of information expected to be available include both quantitative and qualitative data collected throughout the programme implementation period. These are anticipated to comprise process monitoring data and reports submitted by Implementing Partners, accessible through a central repository.

While the available data is expected to support strong analysis, the consultant will assess data quality and completeness during the inception phase. Potential limitations may include gaps in baseline data, inconsistencies in data reporting, limited process monitoring data across the PUNO, availability of information in local languages only, or challenges linked to institutional memory due to staff turnover. Where necessary, the MEAL Expert will support in triangulating existing data through qualitative methods or supplementary data collection.

• METHODOLOGY:
  
  
  

To address the review questions and assess the relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of the JP RWEE in Nepal, the consultant will employ a mixed-methods approach. This will include a combination of desk review, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and field visits to selected implementation sites. These methods will be used to collect both primary and secondary data.

The team will apply qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques to assess programme performance against intended outcomes, with a focus on triangulating evidence across multiple data sources. Particular attention will be given to integrating age, gender, and diversity. Considerations throughout the review process, ensuring that the voices and experiences of women, men, girls, and boys, in all their diversity, are meaningfully captured and reflected in the analysis.

The detailed methodology, including sampling strategies, data collection tools, and analytical frameworks, will be further elaborated in the inception report, following consultations with key stakeholders.

• Description of Responsibilities /Scope of Work
  
  
  

Under the supervision of the Monitoring and Reporting Analyst and in close coordination with the National Coordinator, MEAL Coordinator, and the Participating UN Organizations (PUNOs), the MEAL Expert will provide technical leadership in designing and implementing the evaluation/review framework and tools for the Mid-Term Review (MTR). The MEAL Expert will work in close collaboration with the Team Lead and the wider review team to ensure robust methodological rigor, gender sensitivity, and alignment with programme objectives.

• Evaluation Design & Methodology:
• Tool Development & Data Collection:
• Data Analysis & Programme Assessment:
• Collaboration & Coordination:
• Stakeholder Engagement & Field Work:
• Reporting & Dissemination:
• Support the design and implementation of the overall evaluation methodology, ensuring rigor, consistency, and alignment with stakeholder expectations.
• Map and analyze causal linkages between programme activities and results across the four key outcome areas, identifying contributions to gender transformation, climate resilience, and inclusive rural development.
• Lead the development and adaptation of data collection tools, including for surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), ensuring tools are inclusive, context-appropriate, and gender-sensitive.
• Oversee and manage all primary data collection across programme components, maintaining accuracy, quality, and ethical standards including informed consent, confidentiality, and do-no-harm principles.
• Identify and address data/information gaps in consultation with the Team Lead and Reference Group.
• Analyze both qualitative and quantitative data to assess the programme’s relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Evaluate the alignment of programme components with intended outcomes and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving outputs or revising strategies as necessary.
• Work closely with the Team Lead, JP RWEE PMU, National and MEAL Coordinators, and PUNO focal points to ensure consistency and accuracy in data collection and analysis.
• Provide timely technical feedback to the Reference Group (RG) and actively participate in inception, planning, and review meetings.
• Coordinate with the team lead, National Coordinator and Reference Group to plan and conduct field visits in selected municipalities, engaging programme beneficiaries, implementing partners, and key government stakeholders.
• Support in facilitating inclusive and participatory workshops to capture stakeholder feedback, especially from marginalized groups including women with disabilities.
• Collaborate with the Team Lead to synthesize findings, ensuring coherence between data, analysis, and final outputs.
• Support the preparation of a high-quality, gender-responsive Mid-Term Review Report.
• Support team lead in presenting initial findings in a debriefing session with key stakeholders and support the development of a clear Action Plan with responsibilities, timelines, and outcomes to guide programme improvements.
• Deliverables
  
  
  

The key outputs of the consultant are expected to be:

• Inception Report: A comprehensive document outlining the data needs, proposed methodology, data collection roadmap, tools (e.g., FGD and KII guides), and implementation timeline. This report will be developed in alignment with the Mid-Term Review (MTR) Terms of Reference provided by the Country Team (CT). [15 days]
• Mid-Term Review (MTR) Report: A detailed review report presenting key findings, analysis, and evidence-based conclusions and recommendations, based on qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. [30 days]
• Analytical Summary Report: A concise, action-oriented summary tailored for strategic decision-makers, synthesizing the key findings, recommendations, and responsibility mapping from the MTR report. [5 days]
• Management Response and Action Plan: A structured plan developed in response to the MTR findings, outlining prioritized actions, timelines, and designated responsibilities for implementation. [5 days]
• Synthesis Report: A reflective summary capturing overarching insights, lessons learned, and strategic recommendations to inform future programming and decision-making. [5 days]
• Payment schedule 
  
  
  

Payments will be made in three instalments, based on the satisfactory delivery and approval of key deliverables as outlined below:

• 30% of the consultancy fee will be paid upon signing of the contract and finalization of the inception report.
• 50% will be paid upon submission and acceptance of the draft report and preliminary findings.
• 20% will be paid upon submission and approval of the final report, action plan, and presentation.
  
  
  

All deliverables are expected to be of high quality, responsive to stakeholder input, and submitted promptly. The final payment is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of all deliverables and presentation of findings at the validation meeting.

Deliverable Expected completion time (due day) Payment Schedule (optional)

• Inception Report 31 Aug 2025 08 Sept 2025
• Mid-Term Review (MTR) Report 30 Sept 2025 08 Oct 2025
• Analytical Summary Report 10 Oct 2025 20 Oct 2025
• Management Response and Action Plan 17 Oct 2025 27 Oct 2025
• Synthesis Report 24 Oct 2025 04 Nov 2025
  
  
  

Consultant’s Workplace and Official Travel

This is a home-based consultancy. As part of this assignment, there will be10 days of field travel to Madhesh Province and other relevant locations as required.

Competencies :

Core Values:

• Integrity;
• Professionalism;
• Respect for Diversity.
  
  
  

Core Competencies:

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues;
• Accountability;
• Creative Problem Solving;
• Effective Communication;
• Inclusive Collaboration;
• Stakeholder Engagement;
• Leading by Example.
  
  
  

Please visit this link for more information on UN Women’s Values and Competencies Framework:

Required Qualifications:

Education and Certification:

• Master’s degree in Sociology, Social Development, Development Economics or Performance Management or other relevant field, or First University degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training/courses. 
  
  
  

Experience:

• Minimum 7 years’ experience in development field with a focus on women economic empowerment climate -smart agriculture sector, social protection, employment creation. 
• Previous experience conducting reviews, evaluations or monitoring exercises. 
• Experience in research methodologies (both (Qualitative and quantitative), Data analysis and synthesis ( desk review and field data)  
• Strong technical skills in monitoring and evaluation methodologies, particularly related to women’s economic empowerment, including the application of theories of change, outcome mapping, and contribution analysis.
• Expertise in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of both qualitative and quantitative data, with an emphasis on turning insights into practical recommendations.
• Good understanding of Nepal’s development dynamics and socio-political context.
• Prior experience evaluating development initiatives involving multiple stakeholders or joint UN programmes is an asset.
  
  
  

Languages:

• Fluency in written and spoken English and Nepali is required.
• Knowledge of local languages spoken in Madhesh Province is an asset.
  
  
  

Evaluation Criteria:

• Academic qualification (10)
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in monitoring and evaluation of gender-responsive development programmes, particularly those involving joint or UN-supported initiatives (30)
• Proven experience in designing and managing mixed-methods data collection and analysis, along with strong knowledge of evaluation methodologies such as Theory of Change (ToC) and contribution analysis (20)
• Skilled in analyzing and synthesizing qualitative and quantitative data into actionable, evidence-based recommendations. (10)
• Ability to coordinate fieldwork and stakeholder engagement. (10)
• Interview performance, assessing communication skills, subject matter expertise, and alignment with programme goals and values (20)
  
  
  

The maximum score that the candidate can achieve for this consultancy is 100. Out of 80, candidates who receive a score higher than 65 will be selected for interview. Hence out of 100, candidates should score more than 60 to qualified for this position.

Statements :

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system (DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW and UNIFEM), which focused exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment.

Diversity and inclusion:

At UN Women, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. UN Women recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, national origin, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, integrity and organizational need.

If you need any reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please include this information in your application.

UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UN Women, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UN Women’s policies and procedures and the standards of conduct expected of UN Women personnel and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. (Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.)

Note: Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form, including the sections on education and employment history, are completed. If all sections are not completed the application may be disqualified from the recruitment and selection process.