VSO is an international development charity that works through volunteers. Our vision is a world without poverty in which people work together to fulfil their potential. We bring people together to share skills, creativity and learning to build a fairer world.

What's the context and purpose of the role?

You'll be working with the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture to improve food security and poverty in the Sofala province. The Directorate coordinates the efforts of the private sector, NGO's and other government agencies to improve agriculture productivity, agro-industry and the commercialisation and sustainable use of natural resources. There's a long tradition of rice production in Sofala, but the growers are not using modern techniques in order to improve crops. You'll work together with the department of Agriculture to increase rice production in the region, sometimes coordinating with other government bodies, NGO's, CBO's, beneficiaries and other relevant bodies.

What does the role involve?

• Supporting the implementation of the rice production programme through the Directorate.
• Advise technical staff on new techniques in growing and milling rice.
• Developing plans to monitor the implementation of the rice production programme at the Provincial level.

What skills, experience and personal qualities are needed for the role?

You'll have a background in extension agriculture with at least 5 years' experience of developing, implementing and managing rice production programmes. You'll have good training and mentoring skills and will be realistic about the speed and which can be achieved within a government department. You must be willing to learn Portuguese, which you will need for both working and social situations.

And the rest…

You'll be based in Beira, the second largest city in Mozambique and the capital of the Sofala Province. Beira is situated by the mouth the river Pungue and has the largest port in the country. There's a small beach at Makuti and the city is dotted with faded colonial-style houses. You'll find most of what you might need in the many restaurants and shops. Further north and south on the coastline there are many beautiful beaches and Beira is extremely well placed as a base from which to explore the rest of Mozambique.

We'll ask you to commit to 12-24 months to make a sustainable contribution to our development goals. In return, we'll give you comprehensive financial, personal and professional support. We'll provide you with extensive training before your placement, and our financial package includes a local living allowance, return flights, accommodation, insurance and more. When you return to your home country, we'll help you to resettle and many of our returned volunteers stay involved with us long after their placement ends.

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