Terms of Reference (TOR) for a Consultant to Manage the South Africa Afrobarometer Round 10 Survey

By Published On: 13th March 2025
  1. Background

Afrobarometer (AB) is a Pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that measures public attitudes on economic, political, and social matters in Africa. The network has been conducting surveys across the continent for over 25 years, providing valuable insights into governance and development challenges. Afrobarometer Round 10 seeks to collect nationally representative data in South Africa, and a consultant is required to manage the implementation of the survey.

  1. Purpose of the Consultant

Afrobarometer seeks to engage a consultant to manage the full implementation of the South Africa Round 10 survey. The consultant will oversee all aspects of the survey process, ensuring it is conducted according to the Afrobarometer methodology and high-quality data is collected within the stipulated timeframe.

  1. Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for the overall planning, implementation, and reporting of the Afrobarometer Round 10 survey in South Africa. This includes, but is not limited to, the following tasks:

3.1. Survey Planning and Preparation

  • Engage with Afrobarometer’s sampling specialist and Statistics South Africa to draw the national sample.
  • Develop route plans for fieldwork to ensure national coverage and efficient data collection.
  • Recruit and manage a team of experienced fieldworkers and supervisors.
  • Engage with translators to ensure the Afrobarometer questionnaire is accurately translated into relevant languages spoken in South Africa.
  • Oversee all logistical arrangements, including transport, accommodation, and material procurement for the fieldwork teams. This includes working with our administration and finance team to ensure smooth delivery of the project.

3.2. Fieldworker Training

  • Organize and facilitate comprehensive training for fieldworkers and supervisors in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town.
  • Ensure all fieldworkers understand and adhere to Afrobarometer’s survey methodology and quality assurance protocols.
  • Provide training on the use of data collection software and quality control measures.

3.3. Data Collection and Field Supervision

  • Supervise all field teams to ensure data collection follows Afrobarometer’s prescribed methodology.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve any challenges encountered in the field.
  • Ensure adherence to Afrobarometer’s ethical and quality control standards.
  • Liaise with the data quality officer to address issues related to survey implementation and ensure timely, high-quality data submission.

3.4. Post-Survey Reporting

  • Draft and submit a comprehensive post-survey report, including lessons learned, challenges faced, and recommendations for future rounds.
  • Provide an assessment of the data collection process and field team performance.
  1. Deliverables and Timeline The consultancy is expected to run for a period of three months (full-time). The consultant will be required to deliver the following:
  • Work plan and fieldwork strategy (within two weeks of contract signing).
  • Recruitment and training of fieldworkers (Month 1).
  • Fieldwork completion (Month 2).
  • Post-survey report and quality assessment (Month 3).
  1. Required Qualifications and Experience
  • A minimum of five years’ experience managing national surveys in South Africa.
  • Strong background in social research, statistics, or a related field.
  • Experience working with Afrobarometer or other large-scale survey projects is highly desirable.
  • Expertise in survey sampling, field logistics, and data quality control.
  • Ability to engage effectively with national statistical agencies, research institutions, and field teams.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in English and at least one other official South African language.
  • Familiarity with data collection tools such as SurveyToGo or other CAPI-based software is an advantage.
  1. Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will report to the AB project manager for Southern Africa and work closely with Afrobarometer’s survey specialists, sampling expert, and data quality officer.

  1. Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

  • A detailed CV outlining relevant experience.
  • A cover letter explaining suitability for the role.

Applications should be submitted by 21 March 2025 to preston@afrobarometer.org

 

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