Background:

Over the past four years, the SAfA (Foundations Alliance for Africa) project has worked to enhance the livelihood prospects of young people in Ethiopia through an integrated, multi-sectoral approach. The project comprises three main components: (i) training in agronomy, livestock husbandry, and business and entrepreneurial skills; (ii) training in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management; and (iii) training on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). While the project has achieved several key targets, it has yet to deliver transformative impacts in enabling youth to transition into sustainable income-generating activities. One contributing factor may be the use of blanket group targeting. To address this limitation, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), in collaboration with partners, is implementing an experimental study to assess the effectiveness of data-driven targeting—leveraging machine learning–based predictions (analogous to proxy means tests used in social protection programs)—and peer-based targeting within youth groups.

As part of this experiment, IFPRI will conduct a baseline Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) to establish the status of key outcome and impact indicators prior to project interventions, provide a benchmark for assessing project impacts after implementation, and generate data to support data-driven targeting mechanisms. The baseline study will cover approximately 3,000 youth who are members of 185 Youth Agricultural Innovation Groups (YAIGs) across two districts (woredas) in the Bedele Zone, Oromia Region. The survey will collect data on youth background characteristics, employment and time use, business knowledge and ownership, life skills, and emotional wellbeing. The survey is expected to take about 20-25 minutes.

IFPRI is seeking a qualified survey firm based in Ethiopia to undertake the baseline data collection in accordance with the scope of work described below.

Scope of work:

The baseline survey will be implemented in November 2025. The selected firm will be responsible for reviewing the questionnaire developed by IFPRI and its partners, providing technical feedback, and translating it into Afan Oromo. The firm will recruit and manage approximately 20 enumerators, 2 supervisors, and 1 survey coordinator, ensuring gender balance and appropriate qualifications, including at least three years of university education, experience with phone surveys, and proficiency in computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) platforms such as SurveyCTO.

The firm will organize a two-day training session for enumerators in Addis Ababa, including venue arrangements and the provision of all necessary training materials. The training will be facilitated by the IFPRI team, which will evaluate enumerator performance and finalize the roster of qualified staff. Given that the survey will be conducted in Oromia, the firm is expected to recruit enumerators and supervisors who are fluent in Afan Oromo.

Following training, the firm will organize and oversee data collection from approximately 3,000 youth respondents via phone interviews in the two Oromia districts. This includes managing logistics, ensuring data quality through routine supervision and spot checks, resolving any operational challenges, and ensuring that all data are uploaded daily to SurveyCTO. The firm will also ensure that all interviews are conducted in compliance with ethical standards, including obtaining informed consent and maintaining respondent confidentiality. Upon completion of the survey, the firm will conduct a debriefing session with the IFPRI team and prepare a comprehensive survey report summarizing the data collection process, challenges, and lessons learned.

In collaboration with local implementing partners, the firm will also support the implementation of a small cash transfer to approximately 500 youth in the treatment groups. The amount and procedures for the transfer will be determined by IFPRI and its partners.

Required Qualifications of The Consultant / Survey Firm:

The selected firm must demonstrate a proven track record in organizing and implementing at least three large-scale phone surveys in Ethiopia with sample sizes comparable to this assignment. The proposed survey team (enumerators, supervisors, and coordinators) should have at least three years of university education and experience conducting a minimum of three phone surveys using CATI tools. The firm should have robust financial management capacity, including accurate expenditure documentation, and must be able to complete all activities within the specified timeframe.

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior experience in implementing cash transfers or payments to large numbers of beneficiaries will be considered an asset.

Duration:

The assignment is expected to last for three months, covering all phases from preparation to completion.

Application Documents:

Interested and qualified firms are invited to submit the following documents (in English):

1. Cover Letter.
2. Technical and financial proposal, including a detailed budget.

Application Deadline:

October 26, 2025.