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Request for Proposals (RFP) Document
For the Consultancy Services
Subject of Procurement : Greenhouse Farming Technology Training for Extension Workers
Procurement Reference Number: MHDC/AGRICULTURE/MWASIP/S/2024-25/01
Procurement Method: Request For Proposals (RFP)
Selection Method: Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS)
Date of Issue of RFP Document 19th June, 2024
1. Background
Mangochi District Council aims to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability through the adoption of advanced farming technologies. In the District Development Plan (DDP), greenhouse farming technology has been identified as a key area with the potential to improve crop yields, ensure food security, and support year-round cultivation of horticultural crops. To achieve this mandate, the district through the Ministry of Water and Sanitation is implementing the Malawi Watershed Services Improvement Project (MWASIP) with financial support from the World Bank.
The project development objective (PDO) is to increase the adoption of sustainable landscape management practices and improve watershed services in targeted watershed. The project consists of three related components that will contribute to achievement of the PDO. Under sub component 1.2, the project provides matching grants for enhancement of Agri-based livelihoods. In the third call of proposals, two groups will receive the grants focusing on production of tomatoes using modern farming technology. It is essential to equip extension workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to support and train farmers in greenhouse farming technology if the council is to achieve its mandate.
2. Objectives
The main objectives of this training program are:
- To educate extension workers on the principles, benefits, and advanced techniques of greenhouse farming.
- To equip extension workers with practical skills for the construction, operation, and maintenance of greenhouses.
- To enable extension workers to effectively disseminate greenhouse farming practices to local farmers, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture.
3. Scope of Work
The selected consultant or training organization will undertake the following tasks:
1. Curriculum Development:
- Develop a comprehensive training curriculum that covers all essential aspects of greenhouse farming, including:
- Introduction to greenhouse farming and its advantages
- Greenhouse management including nutrient management as key
- Climate control and management (temperature, humidity, ventilation)
- Soil preparation and management
- Crop selection and planting techniques
- Integrated pest management (IPM)
- Water management and irrigation systems
- Harvesting and post-harvest handling
- Economic analysis and market access
- Prepare detailed lesson plans, training manuals, and visual aids to support the curriculum.
2. Training Delivery:
- Conduct interactive training sessions for extension workers, combining theoretical knowledge with practical demonstrations.
- Organize field visits and hands-on activities in a greenhouse setting to provide practical experience.
- Facilitate group discussions, Q&A sessions, and problem-solving exercises to enhance understanding and retention.
3. Training Materials:
- Provide comprehensive training materials, including manuals, handouts, PowerPoint presentations, and multimedia resources.
- Ensure that all materials are accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to the needs of the participants.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Develop and implement a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework to assess the effectiveness of the training program.
- Conduct pre- and post-training assessments to measure knowledge gain and skills acquisition.
- Collect feedback from participants to identify areas for improvement and success stories.
5. Reporting:
- Submit detailed report for the training, including participant attendance, topics covered, and evaluation results.
- Provide a final comprehensive report summarizing the training outcomes, challenges faced, and recommendations for future training initiatives.
4. Deliverables
The consultant or training organization is expected to deliver the following:
• Detailed training curriculum and schedule
• Training materials and manuals
• Final comprehensive training report
5. Qualifications and Experience
The selected consultant or organization should have:
- Demonstrated experience in greenhouse farming and agricultural training with background in agriculture
- Proven track record of developing and delivering training programs for extension workers or farmers
- Expertise in climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming practices
- Strong communication and facilitation skills
6. Duration and Timeline
The training program is expected to be conducted over a duration of five days, starting from 08/07/24 to 15/07/24. The consultant or organization should provide a detailed timeline outlining key activities and milestones.
7. Budget
A detailed budget proposal should be submitted, covering all costs associated with the training program, including curriculum development, training delivery, materials, travel, accommodation, and other expenses.
8. Submission Guidelines
Interested parties should submit the following:
• A cover letter expressing interest and highlighting relevant experience
• A technical proposal outlining the approach, methodology, and work plan
• A financial proposal with a detailed budget breakdown
• CVs of key personnel and references from past clients
Proposals should be submitted electronically to judithmaseya@gmail.com by 26th June, 2024.
9. Contact Information
For any inquiries or further information, please contact:
The chairman
Internal Procurement Disposal Committee
Mangochi District Council
Private Bag 138
Mangochi
0999421964
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