SKBoWa – Peaceful and Resilient Border Regions in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Mali

The SKBoWa programme (“Peaceful and Resilient Border Regions in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Mali”) addresses shared development and security challenges in the border areas of the four countries. These regions are characterized by strong historical, social, cultural, and economic ties, including cross-border trade, agricultural activities, and access to health and education services.

At the same time, the regions face common challenges such as limited social infrastructure, food insecurity, pressure on natural resources, forced displacement, and increasing insecurity linked to violent extremist groups. To address these issues, SKBoWa promotes cross-border cooperation as a mechanism for building resilience, preventing conflict, and improving living conditions on both sides of national borders.

The consultancy supported the adaptation of the EU-funded programme framework by coordinating stakeholder consultations, developing consultation methodologies and templates, facilitating engagement with partners and regional actors, and leading the drafting of a revised Description of the Action (DoA) in accordance with EU and GIZ requirements. The assignment contributed to aligning the programme with evolving regional priorities and strengthening its implementation framework.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designed consultation methodology and stakeholder engagement framework.
• Developed consultation templates and guidance tools.
• Coordinated and supported consultations with project stakeholders and partners.
• Led the revision and drafting of the EU Description of the Action (DoA).
• Ensured compliance with EU and GIZ guidelines, formats, and contractual requirements.
• Supported alignment with related decentralization and agricultural development programmes.