Terms of Reference for Strategy Desk Review

1. About SNV

SNV is a global development partner rooted in the African and Asian countries where we operate. With 60 years of experience and a team of approximately 1,600 people, it is our mission to strengthen capacities and catalyze partnerships that transform the agri-food, energy, and water systems to enable sustainable and more equitable lives for all.

1.1 Background

SNV is undertaking a strategic planning process to develop its Country Strategy, aligned with its 2030 Strategy and national development priorities. This process involves a comprehensive desk review to analyze key development trends, system actors, and structural barriers. Additionally, in-person sensemaking sessions will be conducted to interpret findings and establish strategic priorities.

2. Objective of the Assignment

The external consultant will support the strategic planning process by:

• Conducting a thorough Desk Review of relevant internal and external
• Facilitating in-person sensemaking sessions with the core country team to interpret findings and refine strategic priorities.
• Contributing to the development of key insights that will inform the final Country Strategy document.

3. Scope of Work

The consultant’s responsibilities will include:

A. Desk Review

• Review internal SNV documents (e.g., SNV’s 2030 Strategy, sector frameworks, project learning briefs, country sector outlooks, and conflict-sensitivity profiles).
• Analyze external sources, including national development plans, policies, reports from international organizations, key system actors (government, private sector, financial institutions, CSOs, INGOs), and academic research.
• Identify key development trends, structural barriers, opportunities, and SNV’s potential contributions to addressing these challenges.
• Synthesize findings into a concise report summarizing major themes, key actors, and strategic implications.

B. Sensemaking Facilitation

• Design and facilitate 2-3 in-person sensemaking sessions with the core country
• Guide discussions on key findings, prioritization of development issues, and potential strategic interventions.
• Document session outcomes, including insights, identified gaps, and areas for further

4. Deliverables

1. Desk Review Report – A structured document summarizing key insights, trends, and strategic opportunities (approx. 10-15 pages with accompanying presentation deck).
2. Sensemaking Facilitation Materials – Presentation slides, discussion guides, and activity outlines for in-person sessions.
3. Workshop Summary Report – Key takeaways from the facilitated sessions, including refined strategic priorities and recommendations.

5. Timeline

The assignment is expected to take approximately 15 days over six weeks, following this timeline:

• Week 1-2: Desk Review (document collection, analysis, and synthesis). Approximately 6 days
• Week 3-4: Preparation for sensemaking sessions (designing facilitation approach and materials). 1 day
• Week 5: In-person facilitation of sensemaking 3 days
• Week 6: Finalization of reports and submission of 5 days

6. Required Qualifications & Experience

• Advanced degree in International Development, Public Policy, Economics, or a related
• At least 7 years of experience in strategy development, policy analysis, or development
• Proven expertise in facilitating participatory processes and stakeholder
• Strong analytical and synthesis skills, with experience in conducting desk
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in
• Familiarity with SNV’s sectors (agriculture, energy, and WASH) is an advantage as well as experience living and working in Rwanda.

7. Reporting & Management

The consultant will report to the Country Director and work closely with the core country team. Regular check-ins will be scheduled to ensure alignment with project objectives and progress.