The consultant will work under the supervision of the CMS Dugong MOU Coordinator, in close coordination with Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) and national focal points from participating countries. The outputs of the consultant will be evaluated based on predefined criteria, including, timely delivery of all agreed outputs in accordance with the approved workplan and milestones; high technical quality of deliverables, as validated by the CMS Dugong MOU Secretariat, including clear analysis, use of relevant data, and actionable recommendations aligned with CMS frameworks, and effective stakeholder engagement demonstrated through comprehensive consultations with ROPME Member States and documented integration of feedback into final outputs as well as successfully design & moderate a consultation workshop.
The consultant will undertake the following tasks:
1. Review the desk study of existing global, regional, and national assessments related to migratory marine species and their habitats in the RSA; compile and synthesize available data on the status, distribution, key habitats, and threats affecting marine turtles, dugongs, sharks and rays.
2. Support the national consultations with ROPME Member States, including national focal points and relevant governmental and non-governmental institutions; assess whether existing data remain current and identify gaps, and capture national priorities and ongoing initiatives; prepare a summary of consultation outcomes.
3. Develop a draft regional desk-top baseline report covering ecological status, threats, policy frameworks, and existing conservation measures; include in the report key data gaps, capacity needs, and priority areas for intervention.
4. Revise and finalize the baseline report based on feedback received during the regional workshop; ensure the report is technically sound, policy-relevant, and aligned with CMS frameworks.
5. Develop a draft Regional Roadmap and Action Plan outlining priority actions, indicative timelines, roles and responsibilities.