Individual Consultant (IC) perform the consultancy services to develop a continental statistical database at STATAFRIC. — Eastern Africa Regional Statistics Program-for-Results

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES – INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANT) Name of Project: Eastern Africa Regional Statistics Program-for-Results (EARSPforR) Grant No : P176371 Assignment Title: Individual Consultant (IC) to perform the Consultancy services to develop a Continental Statistical Database. Reference No . TN-STATAFRIC-AUC-546831-CS-INDV. Background The African Union Commission (AUC) has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of Eastern Africa Regional Statistics Program for Results Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The consulting services (“the Services”) include Selection of an Individual Consultant (IC) to perform the Consultancy services to develop a Continental Statistical Database. Reliable and harmonized statistical data are critical for monitoring development progress, guiding resource allocation, and supporting evidence-based policy-making across Africa. The African Union Institute for Statistics (STATAFRIC), established under the African Union (AU), plays a central role in coordinating statistical development and strengthening the African statistical system at the continental level. The importance of good quality data cannot be over-emphasized, and a lot of efforts and investments have been made in data production by different stakeholders. However, access to harmonized, centralized, and consistently documented statistical datasets remains largely limited due to: Fragmented and siloed national and regional databases with incompatible structures. Inconsistent application of data standards, indicator definitions, and classification frameworks. Absence of automated or structured mechanisms for data submission to continental repositories. Limited data documentation and metadata, reducing discoverability and usability. Restricted public access to existing datasets, hindering research and policy uptake. To address these structural gaps, STATAFRIC intends to establish a Continental Statistical Database (CSD), a centralized and harmonized repository and dissemination platform for key socio-economic indicators across Africa. The CSD will consolidate data from NSOs and RECs, ensure compliance with international standards, and provide open and structured access to continental statistics. STATAFRIC therefore seeks to recruit a qualified individual consultant to lead the design, development, and operationalization of this continental statistical database. Objectives of the assignment Conduct a structured assessment of existing statistical data sources, repositories, and data quality across African countries, National Statistical Offices (NSOs) and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), as well as relevant global institutions (e.g., ILOStat, FAOStat, UNSD) in coordination with STATAFRIC. Design a conceptual and logical data model for the Continental Statistical Database, aligned with international statistical standards and with statistical harmonization standards/guidelines developed by STATAFRIC. Develop and deploy the operational database with ingestion pipelines, validation mechanisms, and scalable storage infrastructure. Establish data harmonization procedures, developed by STGs in each thematic area, to align indicators, classifications, and metadata across diverse sources. Develop a user-friendly dissemination platform with data visualization, API access, and open data capabilities. Build the institutional capacity of STATAFRIC staff through training and comprehensive documentation. Expected Deliverables This consultancy service is a lump-sum and deliverables based, and submissions must be submitted in English and/or French. Deliverables are subject to review and approval by STATAFRIC before corresponding payment is made. A request by the consultant for additional time on a specific deliverable may be considered and approved by STATAFRIC, provided the overall contract duration and lump-sum budget are respected. # Deliverable Description and Minimum Content Number of Days D1 Methodological report and inception Report. Detailed methodology; work plan with milestones; stakeholder engagement strategy; list of data sources to be assessed; risk register. 10 days D2 Data Source Assessment Report. Structured inventory of data sources with metadata profiles; assessment of formats, standards, and quality; gap analysis; prioritized list of datasets for integration. 20 days D3 Database Architecture & Data Model Design Document. Conceptual and logical data model; entity-relationship diagrams; data dictionary; metadata standards specification; physical architecture and hosting strategy; technology stack justification. 15 days D4 Operational Continental Statistical Database. Deployed and functional database; ingestion pipelines; validation rules; data versioning system; UAT report signed off by STATAFRIC; source code repository with documentation; deployment guide. 30 days D5 Data Harmonization Framework & Guidelines. Harmonization procedures; indicator alignment documentation; quality flags specification; data quality review workflow; mapping tables for key classifications. 15 days D6 Dissemination Platform & API. Deployed web interface; interactive dashboards; public API documentation; tiered access system; mobile-responsive design; metadata catalogue. 10 days D7 Training Materials & Documentation. Training programme agenda and materials; administrator manual; end-user manual; API documentation; maintenance and sustainability plan. 10 days D8 Final Implementation Report. Summary of all activities and outputs; lessons learned; recommendations; handover checklist. 10 days Required Qualifications and Experience Academic Qualifications An advanced university degree (Master's level minimum) in one of the following fields: Statistics, Data Science, Database Systems, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related discipline. Professional Experience The following experience is required: A minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in database design, development, and management, with at least three (5) years in statistical or data-intensive environments. Demonstrated experience working with large-scale statistical datasets, including data from NSOs or international statistical agencies. Practical knowledge of data harmonization methodologies and metadata standards (SDMX, DDI, or equivalent). Experience designing and implementing data ingestion pipelines, ETL processes, and automated validation mechanisms. Experience developing data dissemination platforms or open data portals accessible to non-technical users. Experience conducting data source assessments and gap analyses. The following experience is an asset : Prior work with African Union institutions, regional economic communities, or national statistical offices in Africa. Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, GCP or equivalent) for database hosting and management. Familiarity with the SDG indicator framework and international statistical classification systems (ISIC, COICOP, ICLS, ICD, etc.). Proficiency in both English and French. Technical Competencies Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: Relational database design and management (PostgreSQL, MySQL, or equivalent). SDMX or DDI metadata standards implementation. ETL pipeline development and data transformation tools. API design and development (REST, JSON-stat, or SDMX-JSON). Data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, D3.js, or equivalent). Web application development for data dissemination portals. Version control and technical documentation (Git, Confluence, or equivalent). Evaluation Criteria Applications will be evaluated using the following evaluation criteria. Only candidates achieving a minimum technical score of 70 out of 100 will be considered. No. Evaluation Criterion Sub-criteria Max. Points Technical Approach & Methodology. Clarity, relevance, and feasibility of proposed approach; quality of work plan; understanding of the assignment. 25 Relevant Professional Experience. Depth and quality of experience in database design, statistical data systems, and dissemination platforms. 20 Demonstrated Technical Competencies. Evidence of skills in databases, ETL, SDMX/DDI, API development, and data visualization. 20 Academic Qualifications. Relevance and level of academic qualifications and professional certifications. 15 Experience with International/Regional Organizations. Prior work with AU, UN, RECs, NSOs, or equivalent statistical bodies in Africa. 10 Language Proficiency. Demonstrated proficiency in English and/or French; bilingual capacity is an advantage. 10 Minimum passing score: 70/100 100 Application (Expression of Interest) EoI requirements: Interested individual consultants should submit the following documents as a single application package: A technical proposal (maximum of 15 pages) including: understanding of the assignment, proposed methodology and approach to data harmonization, work plan with milestones, and summary of relevant experience. An updated curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant qualifications and experience, with at least three (3) professional references contactable by STATAFRIC. At least two (2) samples of similar work previously undertaken (e.g., database design documents, data model specifications, dissemination platform documentation, or assessment reports). Copies of relevant academic certificates and any professional certifications. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment are attached to this request for expressions of interest. The African Union Commission now invites eligible individuals (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Individual Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, revised November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours i.e. 0900 to 1700 hours. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form following the above shortlisting criteria to the address below (in person, or by mail) before 05th August 2026 at 15:00 Hours Local Time, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Only submitted Expression of Interests (EoIs) mentioning the reference number “ TN-STATAFRIC-AUC-546831-CS-INDV “ in the subject field of the e-mail, will be considered. African Union Commission, Attn: Head, Supply Chain Management Division - Operations Support Services Directorate Building C, 3rd Floor, P.O Box 3243, Roosevelt Street Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Tel: +251 (0) 11 551 7700 – Ext 4305 Fax: +251 (0) 11 551 0442; +251 11-551-0430 E-mails: tender@africanunion.org Terms of Reference Individual Consultant (IC) to perform the Consultancy Services to develop a Continental Statistical Database. Background and Context Reliable and harmonized statistical data are critical for monitoring development progress, guiding resource allocation, and supporting evidence-based policy-making across Africa. The African Union Institute for Statistics (STATAFRIC), established under the African Union (AU), plays a central role in coordinating statistical development and strengthening the African statistical system at the continental level. The importance of good quality data cannot be over-emphasized, and a lot of efforts and investments have been made in data production by different stakeholders. However, access to harmonized, centralized, and consistently documented statistical datasets remains largely limited due to: Fragmented and siloed national and regional databases with incompatible structures. Inconsistent application of data standards, indicator definitions, and classification frameworks. Absence of automated or structured mechanisms for data submission to continental repositories. Limited data documentation and metadata, reducing discoverability and usability. Restricted public access to existing datasets, hindering research and policy uptake. To address these structural gaps, STATAFRIC intends to establish a Continental Statistical Database (CSD) a centralized and harmonized repository and dissemination platform for key socio-economic indicators across Africa. The CSD will consolidate data from NSOs and RECs, ensure compliance with international standards, and provide open and structured access to continental statistics. STATAFRIC therefore seeks to recruit a qualified individual consultant to lead the design, development, and operationalization of this continental statistical database. Objectives of the Consultancy General Objectives: To design and implement a comprehensive, scalable, and standards-compliant continental statistical database that consolidates and harmonizes statistical data from across Africa, and makes it accessible to policymakers, researchers, institutions, different stakeholders and the public. Specific Objectives Conduct a structured assessment of existing statistical data sources, repositories, and data quality across African countries, National Statistical Offices (NSOs) and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), as well as relevant global institutions (e.g., ILOStat, FAOStat, UNSD) in coordination with STATAFRIC. Design a conceptual and logical data model for the Continental Statistical Database, aligned with international statistical standards and with statistical harmonization standards/guidelines developed by STATAFRIC. Develop and deploy the operational database with ingestion pipelines, validation mechanisms, and scalable storage infrastructure. Establish data harmonization procedures, developed by STGs in each thematic area, to align indicators, classifications, and metadata across diverse sources. Develop a user-friendly dissemination platform with data visualization, API access, and open data capabilities. Build the institutional capacity of STATAFRIC staff through training and comprehensive documentation. Scope of Work The consultant will carry out the following tasks, organized into six work streams: Assessment of Existing Data Sources. Select, in consultation with STATAFRIC and the relevant Specialized Technical Groups (STGs), a set of key priority thematic areas (such as demography, health, education, environment, agriculture), and conduct an assessment (census) of data availability and quality across all African Union member states. Assess data formats, classification standards, indicator definitions, and quality levels across identified sources. Evaluate existing databases and repositories at NSOs, RECs, and continental bodies, documenting their structure, accessibility, update frequency, and interoperability. Identify priority datasets and indicator sets for initial integration into the CSD. Produce a structured data source inventory with metadata profiles for each identified source. Database Design. Develop a conceptual and logical data model for the Continental Statistical Database, covering indicator dimensions, geographic levels, temporal coverage, and data provenance. Define metadata standards and data classification frameworks, aligned with SDMX, DDI, or equivalent international standards. Design the physical database architecture, including table structures, indexing strategy, partitioning approach, and storage infrastructure (on-premises, cloud, or hybrid). Specify data versioning and historization mechanisms to preserve data lineage and support trend analysis. Produce an entity-relationship diagram and a data dictionary covering all database objects. Database Development. Build and deploy the operational Continental Statistical Database according to the approved design specifications. Develop automated data ingestion pipelines supporting a combination of publicly available data from NSOs and RECs and, where such data is not publicly available, direct data submission by NSOs and RECs, through batch file uploads (CSV, Excel, SDMX-ML), API-based data feeds, and manual data entry for priority sources. Implement data validation rules at ingestion covering format checks, range validation, consistency checks, and duplicate detection. Ensure the database is optimized for performance with large datasets (target: support for data from all 55 AU member states across multiple time series). Implement a data versioning system enabling rollback and audit trail of all data changes. Deploy the system in a high-availability environment with a target uptime of ≥ 99.5%. Data Harmonization. Continental data harmonization activities are carried out by the Specialized Technical Groups (STGs) of SHaSA 2 in close coordination with STATAFRIC. The consultant is expected to: Develop a data harmonization framework, as defined by relevant STGs, for aligning indicator definitions, units of measure, geographic classifications, and time periods across national sources. Implement automated and semi-automated harmonization rules within the ingestion pipeline, with flagging of anomalies requiring manual review. Align all integrated indicators with internationally recognized statistical standards and classifications (e.g., ISIC, COICOP, ICD, ICLS, SDG indicator framework). Define and document data quality dimensions (accuracy, completeness, timeliness, consistency, comparability) and implement corresponding quality flags on all datasets. Establish a data quality review workflow, including roles and responsibilities for data validation and approval. Data Dissemination Platform. Develop a user-friendly web interface for browsing, querying, and downloading data from the Continental Statistical Database. Implement interactive dashboards and data visualization tools, including time-series charts, comparative country views, thematic maps, and exportable tables. Provide open data access for public datasets via downloadable files (CSV, Excel, JSON) and a documented public API (REST, JSON-stat or SDMX-JSON). Implement tiered access management: public access for open datasets; authenticated access for restricted or embargoed data. Ensure the platform is accessible on both desktop and mobile devices and meets basic web accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA). Implement a metadata catalogue enabling users to browse and search dataset documentation. Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer. Develop a structured training programme for STATAFRIC staff covering database administration, data ingestion and validation workflows, harmonization procedures, and platform management. Conduct a minimum of two (2) hands-on training sessions for STATAFRIC staff and relevant stakeholders from NSOs and RECs. Produce comprehensive documentation including database architecture documents, data dictionary, administrator manual, end-user manual, and API documentation. Develop a maintenance and sustainability plan, including recommended staffing profile, estimated annual maintenance costs, data update schedule, and an upgrade roadmap for Years 2–3. Expected Deliverables This consultancy is a lump-sum and deliverables based, and submissions must be submitted in English and/or French. Deliverables are subject to review and approval by STATAFRIC before corresponding payment is made. A request by the consultant for additional time on a specific deliverable may be considered and approved by STATAFRIC, provided the overall contract duration and lump-sum budget are respected. # Deliverable Description and Minimum Content Number of Days D1 Methodological report and inception Report. Detailed methodology; work plan with milestones; stakeholder engagement strategy; list of data sources to be assessed; risk register. 10 days D2 Data Source Assessment Report. Structured inventory of data sources with metadata profiles; assessment of formats, standards, and quality; gap analysis; prioritized list of datasets for integration. 20 days D3 Database Architecture & Data Model Design Document. Conceptual and logical data model; entity-relationship diagrams; data dictionary; metadata standards specification; physical architecture and hosting strategy; technology stack justification. 15 days D4 Operational Continental Statistical Database. Deployed and functional database; ingestion pipelines; validation rules; data versioning system; UAT report signed off by STATAFRIC; source code repository with documentation; deployment guide. 30 days D5 Data Harmonization Framework & Guidelines. Harmonization procedures; indicator alignment documentation; quality flags specification; data quality review workflow; mapping tables for key classifications. 15 days D6 Dissemination Platform & API. Deployed web interface; interactive dashboards; public API documentation; tiered access system; mobile-responsive design; metadata catalogue. 10 days D7 Training Materials & Documentation. Training programme agenda and materials; administrator manual; end-user manual; API documentation; maintenance and sustainability plan. 10 days D8 Final Implementation Report. Summary of all activities and outputs; lessons learned; recommendations; handover checklist. 10 days Institutional Arrangements The consultant will be based in Tunis, Tunisia and will work under supervision of STATAFRIC - World Bank project coordinator. Relocation costs are not covered for this assignment, however, STATAFRIC will provide for a return air-ticket in accordance with the AU travel rules. Day-to-day coordination will be managed through a STATAFRIC technical focal point who will facilitate access to relevant staff, systems, and documentation. The consultant will collaborate with NSOs, RECs, Pan African Organizations and relevant AU Commission departments as required by the scope of work. Regular progress reviews will be held between the consultant and STATAFRIC management. The consultant will present key findings and outputs at each review. STATAFRIC will provide access to existing documentation, relevant infrastructure, and introductions to key stakeholder counterparts. Travel costs for field missions, if required and pre-approved by STATAFRIC, will be covered by STATAFRIC in accordance with AU travel rules. Required Qualifications and Experience Academic Qualifications: An advanced university degree (Master's level minimum) in one of the following fields: Statistics, Data Science, Database Systems, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related discipline. Professional Experience: The following experience is required: A minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in database design, development, and management, with at least three (5) years in statistical or data-intensive environments. Demonstrated experience working with large-scale statistical datasets, including data from NSOs or international statistical agencies. Practical knowledge of data harmonization methodologies and metadata standards (SDMX, DDI, or equivalent). Experience designing and implementing data ingestion pipelines, ETL processes, and automated validation mechanisms. Experience developing data dissemination platforms or open data portals accessible to non-technical users. Experience conducting data source assessments and gap analyses. The following experience is an asset: Prior work with African Union institutions, regional economic communities, or national statistical offices in Africa. Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, GCP or equivalent) for database hosting and management. Familiarity with the SDG indicator framework and international statistical classification systems (ISIC, COICOP, ICLS, ICD, etc.). Proficiency in both English and French. Technical Competencies: Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: Relational database design and management (PostgreSQL, MySQL, or equivalent). SDMX or DDI metadata standards implementation. ETL pipeline development and data transformation tools. API design and development (REST, JSON-stat, or SDMX-JSON). Data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, D3.js, or equivalent). Web application development for data dissemination portals. Version control and technical documentation (Git, Confluence, or equivalent). Evaluation Criteria Applications will be evaluated using the following evaluation criteria. Only candidates achieving a minimum technical score of 70 out of 100 will be considered. No. Evaluation Criterion Sub-criteria Max. Points Technical Approach & Methodology Clarity, relevance, and feasibility of proposed approach; quality of work plan; understanding of the assignment. 25 Relevant Professional Experience Depth and quality of experience in database design, statistical data systems, and dissemination platforms. 20 Demonstrated Technical Competencies Evidence of skills in databases, ETL, SDMX/DDI, API development, and data visualization. 20 Academic Qualifications Relevance and level of academic qualifications and professional certifications. 15 Experience with International/Regional Organizations Prior work with AU, UN, RECs, NSOs, or equivalent statistical bodies in Africa. 10 Language Proficiency. Demonstrated proficiency in English and/or French; bilingual capacity is an advantage. 10 Minimum passing score: 70/100 100 Application Requirements Interested individual consultants should submit the following documents as a single application package: A technical proposal (maximum 15 pages) including: understanding of the assignment, proposed methodology and approach to data harmonization, work plan with milestones, and summary of relevant experience. An updated curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant qualifications and experience, with at least three (3) professional references contactable by STATAFRIC. At least two (2) samples of similar work previously undertaken (e.g., database design documents, data model specifications, dissemination platform documentation, or assessment reports). Copies of relevant academic certificates and any professional certifications. Terms of Payment Payments will be made in several instalments depending on the completion and STATAFRIC’s approvals of the deliverables: # Deliverables Description and Minimum Content Remuneration Percentage (%) D1 Methodological report , this should be after the submission of an inception report. Detailed methodology; work plan with milestones; stakeholder engagement strategy; list of data sources to be assessed; risk register. 10% D2 Data Source Assessment Report. Structured inventory of data sources with metadata profiles; assessment of formats, standards, and quality; gap analysis; prioritized list of datasets for integration. 15% D3 Database Architecture & Data Model Design Document. Conceptual and logical data model; entity-relationship diagrams; data dictionary; metadata standards specification; physical architecture and hosting strategy; technology stack justification. 15% D4 Operational Continental Statistical Database. Deployed and functional database; ingestion pipelines; validation rules; data versioning system; UAT report signed off by STATAFRIC; source code repository with documentation; deployment guide. 20% D5 Data Harmonization Framework & Guidelines. Harmonization procedures; indicator alignment documentation; quality flags specification; data quality review workflow; mapping tables for key classifications. 10% D6 Dissemination Platform & API. Deployed web interface; interactive dashboards; public API documentation; tiered access system; mobile-responsive design; metadata catalogue. 10% D7 Training Materials, Documentation and Final Implementation Report. Training programme agenda and materials; administrator manual; end-user manual; API documentation; maintenance and sustainability plan. 10% D8 Final Implementation Report. Summary of all activities and outputs; lessons learned; recommendations; handover checklist. 10%