Capacity building for local working groups in South Baalback

Capacity building for local working groups in South Baalback.

Background

In partnership with GIZ, the Strengthening Inclusive Local Governance and Vertical Social Cohesion in Lebanon project’s objective is to strengthen inclusive local governance and vertical social cohesion in Lebanon by engaging inhabitants from diverse backgrounds in participatory planning and decision-making processes. The specific objectives are to increase the capacity of local governments and inhabitants to engage in participatory approaches, improve trust and cohesion between local governance structures and the community, and ensure inclusive representation and ownership of service-enhancing initiatives. The project is implemented in Bekaa, South Baalbak, Hasbaya, and Mount Lebanon.

Objective

To design and deliver capacity building sessions for the existing Working Groups (WGs) that have been established by the Berghof Foundation in each target village. These sessions aim to enhance the groups’ skills and knowledge in areas crucial for effective local governance, participatory decision-making, project development, and community engagement.

Each WG will select two topics for capacity building from the pre-identified list of relevant topics (see below). The capacity building should be tailored to the needs and priorities identified by each WG, ensuring maximum relevance and practical application.

Scope of Work

The awarded entity shall be responsible for conducting:

1. The consultancy firm will conduct participatory training sessions tailored to the specific needs of each village’s WG. Suggested topics include strategic planning, project writing, establishing a development office within the municipal council, enhancing communication, participation and transparency through internet tools, strengthening relationships between expatriates, residents, and municipalities, developing eco-tourism plans, learning from successful municipal initiatives in Lebanon such as waste sorting and local economic stimulation, agricultural marketing and product distribution, mediation and conflict resolution, entrepreneurship, fundraising strategies, and managing inclusive cultural spaces like libraries and clubs.

Deliverables

• Customized training plans and materials for each village.

• Reports summarizing the training outcomes and participant feedback.

• Pre & post Evaluation highlighting the enhanced capacities of the Working Groups across all villages.    

Timeline

The training must be completed within the designated three-month period from September to November 2025

Number of villages

-              6 villages in South Baalback

Number of days:

-              18 days: 2-3 days training for each village

-              4 days for reporting

Qualifications and Requirements

The selected entity must meet the following qualifications:

• Proven experience in conducting capacity building and facilitating community-based workshops.
• Expertise in working with local communities in Lebanon, with knowledge of conflict-sensitive and inclusive approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to ensure women’s participation and inclusivity during training.
• Previous experience working with international organizations and/or donors is an asset.

Coordination and Reporting

The awarded entity will:

• Coordinate closely with the Berghof Foundation’s team throughout the process.
• Provide regular updates on progress, challenges, and proposed adjustments to ensure alignment with project goals.
• Submit all deliverables in English or Arabic, as agreed upon during the inception phase.

Interested entities should submit the following:

1. A detailed technical proposal outlining the proposed methodology and work plan.
2. A financial proposal, including a breakdown of costs.
3. CVs of key personnel and evidence of relevant experience (e.g., reports, publications).