Technical Officer ,Tanzania Horticultural, Association (TAHA)

Tanzania Horticultural, Association (TAHA) is an apex private sector member based organization mandated 5 develop and promote horticulture (flowers, fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs and horticultural seeds) in Tanzania. TAHA's goal is to improve the growth and competitiveness of horticultural industry in the country for social and economic gains. TAHA is a strong voice, representing farmers at all levels, processors, exporters and service providers in the horticultural industry in Tanzania. The Association is looking for a dynamic and experienced Tanzanians to fill vacancies in Zanzibar. The chosen candidates will be stationed at the TAHA office in Zanzibar.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Set up demonstrations on farming practices, improved production technologies, harvesting and post-harvest techniques; Establishing and managing farmers collection and distribution centers to ensure they operate commercially and sustainably; Identifying relevant new methods and technologies of irrigation, harvesting, processing, cooling and transporting horticulture products to the market;

Facilitates a review on irrigation, storage and cooling options and develop training material on storage and cooling;

Conduct periodic surveys to farmers to identify production, harvesting and transportation constraints and develop mechanisms of addressing such constraints;

Develop training programs for the farmers, and conduct trainings on key technical issues identified during periodic surveys. Collect data for the TAHA monitoring and evaluation system

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Agriculture Education and Extension or related disciplines is required;

A minimum of 3 years experience in agriculture extension, post-harvest management, perishable handling or food processing; Knowledge of cold chain management, perishable storage and handling is required;

Strong interest in and passion for developing collaborative working relationships between Public and Private Sector; Technical and innovative skills in creating sustainable solutions to farmers constraints

Good understanding of the Social-cultural issues in Zanzibar

Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English and Kiswahili; A valid driving license is required as considerable field work is involved

Application Instructions:

Application Procedure:

Only email application with the position title placed -'in the subject line is accepted.  Please note 'that application deadline is Thursday, 31^st October 2013 and ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES Will BE CONTACTED

Please include:

Cover letter describing your interest

Curriculum vitae with names and telephone contacts of three referees.

Copies of relevant certificates

Salary history