WEBSITE DESIGNER

Terms of Reference: Updating Mkulima Mbunifu Website – www.mkulimambunifu.org

1. About Mkulima Mbunifu (MkM)

Mkulima Mbunifu (MkM) Magazine is a Farmer Communication Programme project that is implemented in Tanzania since July 2011 with support from Biovision Foundation, Switzerland and Biovision Africa Trust (BvAT), Nairobi, Kenya.  The publication aims to provide information to smallholder farmers to enable them adopt improved sustainable agriculture technologies and practices.

MkM provides information to extension workers, researchers and students and to sensitize them on the available technologies and what needs to be done to improve the lifestyle of smallholder farmers in Tanzania. Government and private institutions, CBOs, NGOs, farmers groups, extension officers and individuals continue to support contents and distribution of the magazine.

The purpose of the project is to enhance economic, social and environmental livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Tanzania through increased adoption of ecologically sustainable agriculture (ESA) and improved agricultural productivity.  One of its project objectives is timely production of ESA themed monthly MkM magazine with content and design that is attractive, relevant to farmer needs, and credible.

MkM phase 2023 to 2025 is producing bi-monthly magazine and share with smallholder farmers registered in our content database. 10,000 copies of Mkulima Mbunifu magazine have been produced for three editions February, April and June of this year. The magazine is distributed to farmers groups, schools and institutions, NGOS, CBO, extensions and individuals’ farmers across the country, and is estimated to reach more than 100,000 farmers in Tanzania through its print version.

MkM website is one of the key sources of information to online readers. MkM depends on its website to inform readers and attracts new subscribers of the MkM editions. MkM is looking for a consultant to help with updates of its website for 10 days only.

 Objective

To enhance the functionality, user experience, and overall performance of the Mkulima Mbunifu website (www.mkulimambunifu.org). This involves updating the WordPress Content Management System (CMS), addressing plugin compatibility issues, optimizing social media integration, implementing an email system for content distribution and newsletters, enhancing email subscription features, and facilitating language translation for a more inclusive user interface (English to Kiswahili).

Tasks

WordPress CMS update

• Ensure the website is running the latest version of WordPress.
• Verify theme compatibility with the updated WordPress version.
• Perform a thorough backup before initiating any updates.

Plugin updates

• Update all existing plugins to their latest versions.
• Identify and replace outdated or incompatible plugins.
• Ensure the compatibility of plugins with the updated WordPress version.

Social Media Integration

• Review and enhance social media integration for seamless sharing and engagement.
• Verify and update social media links and icons.
• Optimize Open Graph tags for better social media representation.

Email System Implementation

• Integrate a robust email system for efficient content distribution.
• Set up a newsletter system for periodic updates to subscribers.
• Ensure compatibility with major email clients and optimize for mobile devices.

Email Subscription Enhancement

• Improve the user interface and experience for email subscription.
• Implement clear calls-to-action for subscription.
• Provide options for users to customize their subscription preferences.

Language Translation

Facilitate language translation of the user interface from English to Kiswahili.

Ensure translated interface maintains clarity and coherence.

Additional Tasks

• Review update and categorize website content for relevance and accuracy.
• Implement a responsive design to enhance mobile compatibility.
• Evaluate and improve website accessibility features.

Timeline

The project is expected to be completed within 10 days from 04^th December 2023 to 15^th December, 2023.

Knowledge required for performing the job

The successful candidate will have the following competencies:

• In-depth knowledge of WordPress CMS, including ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to WordPress.
• Knowledge of identifying and addressing compatibility issues.
• Understanding of UI/UX principles for website design, JavaScript, HTML, CSS and My SQL.
• Proficiency in English and Kiswahili, and translation.
• Basic knowledge of agroecology and related farming systems.
• Ability to collaborate with stakeholders and understand their requirements.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have the following academic and professional qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in IT and web design or a related field.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

How to apply

Send your application consisting of a cover letter, curriculum vitae and copies of academic certificates to info@mkulimambunifu.org to reach Mkulima Mbunifu not later than Friday, 24^th November, 2023 at 1700hrs local Tanzanian time.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.