• The consultant will be asked to compare a conventional intervention model, where NGOs plan and execute interventions to a Youth for Change (Y4C) model for the wetland restoration use case.
• The Y4C model acknowledges that youth are a significantly underutilized resource and can contribute significantly to achieving tangible and positive impacts for themselves, their community, and the environment.
• A special emphasis of the research conducted should lie on the economic and mathematical modeling of the cost/benefit of both approaches in terms of environmental impact such as CO2 sequestered, increased biodiversity, etc. but also in terms of economic and social costs/benefits such as income generated for youth, royalties generated, cost of water purification, etc. The study would be based on previous research from South Africa and  Lesotho and other countries/regions that are comparable to South Africa/Lesotho. Where necessary the study would identify areas that require further research.
• The analysis should also include the impact on youth and society/community. The deliverable would be a concept note that clearly outlines the potential advantages of wetland restoration in Lesotho using youth as the agents of change. This concept note will then be shared with relevant key stakeholders such as the Lesotho government, South African stakeholders, GenU, and the Development Bank of Southern Africa to unlock further funding to implement such a project.

Qualification or Specialized Knowledge and Experience Required

• Education: Doctoral degree in economics or environmental & natural resources studies with strong mathematical/economic modeling skills
• Experience in working in Southern Africa, ideally South Africa and Lesotho
• Strong analytical skills and experience in economic analysis and socio-economic studies
• Strong drafting skills
• Fluency in English