GIZ
GIZ GmbH is currently seeking applications from the eligible applicants for the post of Dryland Agriculture Advisor in Ethiopia
Job Overview
- Job Title: Dryland Agriculture Advisor
- Location: Jigjiga
- Organization: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH
- Deadline: August 18, 2025
- Career Level: Senior (5-8 years)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Number of Positions Available: 1
- Work Experience Required: 5-8 years
About GIZ
GIZ has a partnership with the Ethiopian Government to support different sectors, specifically in the lowland regions that consist of almost 60% of Ethiopia’s land and are inhabited by more than 18 million (agro-)pastoralists. The growing population and increasing extreme weather events pose a threat to these livelihoods, making sustainable agricultural practices an essential requirement. Food insecurity, soil degradation, and erosion are the symptoms of the problem that is overgrazing and deforestation.
GIZ in tandem with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), developed the Dry Valley Rehabilitation and Productive Use (DVRPU) approach to combat the challenges that the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) faces. The Capacity Development for Strengthening Drought Resilience (CDSDR) Project is a program that is in its third phase, aimed at improving the soil’s moisture and fertility so that it can be used as a resource to increase the agricultural productivity and the diversified cropping system.
It is our wish to find a suitably qualified Dryland Agriculture Advisor, who will lead us with his expertise and experience in implementing those agricultural practices that are sustainable in the dry and semi-dry regions of the globe.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Expertise
- Offer solutions on how to apply sustainable agricultural methods that are compatible with the conditions of dry land, such as flood-based farming and water-harvesting systems.
- Support with the implementation of water conservation techniques, choosing drought-tolerant species, maintaining soil in a healthy state, and pest control.
Local Land Users Support and Training
- Implement training initiatives to enhance farmers’ knowledge about innovative technology and good practices in the agricultural sector.
- Evaluate the soil condition and suggest ways to improve its quality, prevent erosion, and conserve water.
- Providing recommendations on water use efficiency is a way to utilize resources such as rainwater and irrigation most effectively.
- Advocate for crop diversification that is resilient and practices for success as well as adaptability to the present conditions.
- Explain to the local community the application of sustainable agroforestry or intercropping for beneficial soil and richer biodiversity.
- Keep up with the latest information and follow innovative dryland agriculture techniques when giving extension services.
- Coordinate with research bodies to organize trials for the purpose of making agriculture better.
- Formulate criteria that allow for the measurement of the positive impact of the farming intervention on increased production and the community’s welfare.
- Periodically check the implementation of interventions and give details of any changes that improve strategy.
- Carry out other functions as instructed by the management.
- The required credentials include a degree in agronomy or dryland agriculture.
- The candidate must have accumulated 10 years of work experience in the fields of agriculture and water management in arid regions. Additionally, the candidate needs to have five years of experience with agronomic practices related to fluctuating water availability. 3 years of experience in training and capacity-building activities.
- The candidate should have accumulated 10 years of experience in the agricultural sector, specifically in water management in arid areas.
- The candidate possesses a five-year understanding of agronomic techniques for managing water resources with fluctuating availability.
- The candidate should also have participated in training and capacity-building activities for a period of three years.
- Skills: Excellent communication for engaging different stakeholders.
- I have demonstrated proficiency in using MS Office products.
- The ability to effectively communicate with various stakeholders is crucial.
- The candidate should possess proficiency in MS Office products.
- A strong command of English, along with knowledge of Somali and other regional languages, will be considered an added advantage.
- Understanding the role of government institutions in managing Somalia’s natural resources is also a valuable asset.
- The candidate should be prepared to work in rural areas of the lowlands.
- The candidate should possess a high level of initiative, integrity, and accountability.
- The candidate should possess strong organizational skills and the capacity to perform effectively under pressure.
- I am prepared to travel and work diligently.
