Consultant for Comparative Assessment of Social Cash Transfers in Zambia

About the role

UNICEF is seeking an experienced consultant to lead a comparative assessment of electronic and manual Social Cash Transfer (SCT) modalities in Zambia. The assignment will evaluate cost‑effectiveness, accessibility, financial inclusion, reliability, accountability, beneficiary experience and overall programme quality.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement a multidimensional assessment framework covering the listed criteria.
• Collect and analyse quantitative data on unit costs and payment performance.
• Conduct qualitative interviews and focus‑group discussions with beneficiaries and stakeholders.
• Produce high‑quality analytical reports, policy briefs and presentation materials for government and development partners.
• Collaborate with Zambian government institutions and SCT programme stakeholders, including travel to field sites as needed.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Social Policy, Development Studies, Statistics, Research Methods, Public Policy or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive research experience in social protection, cash‑transfer programming, public finance or economic analysis.
• Proven experience designing and conducting costing, cost‑effectiveness or value‑for‑money studies.
• Experience working with government or social‑protection stakeholders in Zambia or comparable contexts.
• Fluency in English and strong analytical writing skills.

Required skills

• Mixed‑methods research
• Quantitative data analysis
• Qualitative interviews and focus‑group discussions
• Cost‑effectiveness analysis
• Institutional and political‑economy analysis
• Knowledge of cash‑transfer delivery systems, payment service provider models and mobile‑money platforms

What we offer

• Engagement with a leading UN agency on a high‑impact development project.
• Opportunity to influence policy and programme design in Zambia.
• Competitive consultancy fee and travel support.