Job Description
Want to identify eco-friendly solutions while conserving a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Farmers in Cameroon want to work with you!
In 2020, World Wildlife Fund launched a responsible cacao program in Cameroon to support smallholder cacao farmers with increasing their production. However, this poses a serious risk of environmental degradation to the neighboring Dja Faunal Reserve due to the misuse of chemical pesticides and uncontrolled deforestation for new plantations. The cacao program has proven popular with farmers, but more technical support is still needed.
As Sustainable Agribusiness Advisor, you will collaborate with a field technician in the biological monitoring of forest products through mapping and tracking. You will also strengthen the capacity of local cacao farmers.
Required Skills
Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following criteria:
• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism, Ecology, Agriculture, Rural Development, or Environmental Science
OR
• 3 or more years of work experience related to agro-tourism program planning and implementation
OR
• Skills in the application of modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other related mapping technology
OR
• International work experience or relevant work experience in intercultural, low-resource environments
Desired Skills
All candidates who meet the required skills are encouraged to apply. Additional skills that may make you a more competitive candidate include:
Experience in cooperative management and agribusiness.
Living Conditions
Housing will be in a rural community in the southern region of Cameroon. The Volunteer will live within walking distance to the office.
Activities
Train cacao farmers on integrated pest management and organic farming techniques.
Strengthen local capacities in client relationship management and post-harvest cocoa practices.
Develop practical illustrated training manuals.
Conduct biomonitoring of wildlife behind forest clearing.
Develop non-timber forest production value chain.
Provide a final report that highlights lessons learned and recommendations.
You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as school gardens.
Training
After a 2-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with a field technician and farmers to assess the local needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals.
Peace Corps/Cameroon will equip you with French language resources and you may work with a local tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.
Job Highlights
Protect the Dja Faunal Reserve from environmental degradation.
Strengthen French language skills through daily discussions with cacao farmers.
Be the first Volunteer to collaborate with this partner in over ten years.
