Consultant for FHI360: Regulatory Support & Oromia Relations

1. Background

FHI 360 is a global health organization dedicated to improving people’s lives. In Ethiopia, FHI 360 has been registered as a Foreign Charity with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Charities and Societies Agency under registration no. 0032. FHI 360 Ethiopia CO is implementing five projects across the country, four of which are based in the Oromia Region. These projects are focused on critical areas such as HIV prevention and treatment, crisis response, multi-sectoral coordination, social and behavior change, and nutrition.

While these projects have federal-level agreements, a lack of operational agreements with the Oromia Health Bureau and the CSOs Affairs Directorate in the Oromia Finance Bureau has led to strained relationships and regulatory challenges. To address these issues and strengthen FHI 360’s position in the region, the organization seeks a highly qualified consultant to provide strategic guidance and operational support.

1. Objective

The primary objective of this consultancy is to:

• Fulfill regulatory requirements by preparing and signing off operational agreements with the Oromia Health Bureau and Oromia Finance Bureau.
• Improve FHI 360 Ethiopia CO’s relationship with the Oromia Health Bureau and the CSOs Affairs Directorate in the Oromia Finance Bureau.

1. Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Conduct a thorough review of relevant regulations and guidelines pertaining to foreign NGOs operating in Oromia Region.
   • Develop a detailed plan for fulfilling all regulatory requirements, including but not limited to obtaining necessary permits and licenses.
   • Draft operational agreements with the Oromia Regional Health Bureau and the CSOs Affairs Directorate, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
   • Facilitate the negotiation and signing of these agreements with key regional stakeholders.
2. Relationship Building:
   • Organize meetings and workshops to introduce FHI 360’s work in the Oromia Region to key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and community leaders.
   • Facilitate roundtable discussions to address any concerns or misunderstandings and build trust and collaboration.
   • Conduct joint supportive supervision visits with relevant stakeholders to FHI 360 projects in Jimma Zone, East Sha Zone, Harrargeh Zone, and Southwest Shewa Zone.
   • Establish and maintain strong working relationships with key regional government officials and CSOs Affairs Directorate staff.
3. Strategic Planning:
   • Develop a long-term strategy for FHI 360’s operations in the Oromia Region, including plans for future projects and partnerships.
   • Identify potential challenges and risks and develop mitigation strategies.

4. Deliverables

The consultant is expected to deliver the following:

• Draft operational agreements with the Oromia Regional Health Bureau and the CSOs Affairs Directorate.
• Finalized operational agreements signed by all relevant parties.
• Detailed reports on meetings, workshops, and joint supportive supervision visits.
• Develop a strategy for FHI 360’s operation in Oromia region and develop an annual plan to enhance coordination.
• A final report summarizing the consultant’s activities, key achievements, and recommendations for future collaboration.