Overview

Hεn Mpoano, in partnership with the Environmental Justice Foundation and CEWEFIA, is implementing a 3-year Sustainable Ocean Project (SOP) funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD). The project aims to build grassroots capacity for a sustainable ocean economy in Ghana through inclusive, strong and effective capacity building, planning and management of coastal ecosystems.

One of the project’s specific objectives is to improve income resilience of fishing communities to climate and resource declines through enhanced opportunities in supply chains and enterprise development. To achieve this, the project seeks to build the capacity of clam producers and processors in financial management skills.

Purpose of the study

To inform the production of high quality shellfish that meets local and international market demands and improves the economic viability of the Volta clam fishery, Hen Mpoano is seeking to carry out a comprehensive market scoping study to identify potential markets for value-added products such as clam shells, clam powder and clam shito (a Ghanaian hot pepper sauce).

The objective of this study is to locate and evaluate prospective markets for clam shells, clam powder, and shito prepared from clams and offer practical insights that will direct the development and promotion strategies for these value-added products.

Scope of Study

The consultant will be responsible for conducting a thorough scoping and market analysis, which will include but not limited to:

• Identifying potential domestic and international markets for clam shito, clam powder, and shells.
• Assessing the demand for these products in identified markets, potential distribution channels, and strategic partnerships.
• Analyzing the quality standards, regulatory requirements, and certification needed for market entry.
• Identifying packaging, labeling, and branding requirements for each market.
• Evaluating the competitive landscape and identifying key players and competitors in the market.
• Assessing pricing strategies and consumer preferences.

Deliverables

The consultant will be expected to deliver the following:

• Detailed work plan and methodology within two weeks of contract commencement.
• Preliminary findings and analysis within two months of contract commencement.
• Final Report: a comprehensive market study report including all findings, analysis, and recommendations.
• Presentation of key findings to Hen Mpoano.

Duration of the Assignment

The assignment is expected to be completed within three months from the date of contract signing.

Required Qualifications and Experience

The consultant should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• A Master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. A good knowledge of the Ghanaian fisheries is an advantage.
• Proven experience in market research, preferably in the food and seafood industry.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
• Excellent understanding of market dynamics, especially in value-added food products.
• Ability to deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• A detailed proposal outlining the approach and methodology for the study including a financial plan detailing the cost of the assignment.
• A work plan with a timeline for the assignment.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the lead consultant and team members (if applicable).
• Examples of previous relevant work.

All applications should be submitted with the subject line; Study on Clam Value-Added Products to info@henmpoano.org by August 12, 2024.