Terms of Reference (ToR)
Consultancy: Kiswahili Language Training for Exchange Participants
1. Background and Context
Youth Alive Kenya (YAK) is committed to empowering young people and communities through various
programs, including cross-cultural exchanges. As part of its mission, YAK will host two exchange
participants from Malawi and Zimbabwe starting January 2025. The exchange program aims to promote
cross-cultural learning, enhance community engagement, and equip participants with skills to contribute
meaningfully during their stay.
Kiswahili, being one of Kenya’s official languages, plays a significant role in communication, integration,
and professional interactions. To ensure the participants can effectively engage with their host organization,
communities, and broader society, YAK seeks to engage a consultant to deliver a comprehensive Kiswahili
language training program.
2. Objective of the Assignment
The overall objective of this consultancy is to:
1. Provide foundational Kiswahili language skills tailored for beginner-level learners.
2. Equip participants with essential conversational skills for daily interactions.
3. Foster cultural understanding by introducing participants to Kenyan norms, values, and
expressions.
4. Develop professional language skills relevant to the participants’ roles in the host organization and
community.
By the end of the program, participants should demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in basic
Kiswahili and navigate Kenyan cultural settings confidently.
3. Scope of Work
The consultant will be required to:
a. Develop a Customized Training Program:
● Create a detailed Kiswahili training curriculum tailored to the needs of adult beginners.
● Incorporate modules that address conversational skills, grammar, vocabulary, and cultural
contexts.
● Ensure lessons are relevant to the participants’ roles in the exchange program.
b. Deliver Training Sessions:
● Conduct a minimum of 8 hours of training per week over 3 months.
● Provide 1 month of online sessions before the participants’ arrival in Kenya and 2 months of
in-person training post-arrival.
● Facilitate engaging and interactive sessions using diverse teaching methodologies.
c. Monitor Progress and Provide Feedback:
● Develop tools to assess participants’ progress, such as quizzes, assignments, and role-play
exercises.
● Provide regular feedback to participants on their strengths and areas for improvement.
● Submit Reports and Recommendations:
● Prepare and submit monthly progress reports detailing the participants’ learning milestones.
● Submit a final report summarizing achievements, challenges, and recommendations for further
language development.
4. Deliverables
The key deliverables for this consultancy are:
1. A detailed training plan and curriculum, including objectives, lesson outlines, and resource
requirements.
2. Monthly progress reports highlighting participants’ learning outcomes and challenges.
3. A final report summarizing overall achievements, challenges encountered, and recommendations
for continued learning.
4. Training materials, such as handouts, audio recordings, or other resources used during the
sessions.
5. Methodology
The consultant is expected to:
1) Use a combination of teaching approaches tailored for adult learners.
2) Incorporate interactive methods such as role-plays, group discussions, and real-life scenarios.
3) Utilize diverse teaching materials, including audiovisual aids, practical exercises, and written
content.
4) Provide opportunities for participants to practice conversational Kiswahili in simulated settings.
5) The consultant is encouraged to recommend suitable materials or tools to enhance the learning
experience.
6. Timeline, Duration and payment.
Consultancy Period: December 2024 to February 2025 (3 months).
Training Hours: Minimum of 8 hours per week.
Total Budget: 100,000 KES (inclusive of all consultant fees and taxes).
Payment Schedule:
● 50% advance upon signing the agreement.
● 50% upon completion of the assignment and submission of the final report.
8. Consultant Qualifications
The ideal consultant should meet the following criteria:
● Demonstrated experience teaching Kiswahili to adult learners, particularly non-native speakers.
● Strong command of both Kiswahili and English.
● Familiarity with Kenyan culture and the ability to integrate cultural nuances into the lessons.
● Proven track record of developing and delivering language training programs.
● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to adapt to diverse learner needs.
10. Monitoring and Evaluation
Success of the assignment will be determined through:
● Participants’ feedback on the training program and the consultant’s delivery.
● Measurable improvement in participants’ Kiswahili communication skills based on assessments and
progress tracking.
● Participants’ ability to engage in basic conversations and understand cultural contexts by the end
of the program.
11. Reporting and Communication
● The consultant will report directly to Victoria Nyokabi – Project Coordinator, Youth Alive! Kenya.
● Reports should include detailed descriptions of activities, progress, challenges, and
recommendations.
● Regular check-ins will be scheduled to address any emerging issues and ensure alignment with
project goals.
12. Application Process
Interested consultants are required to submit the following documents by 27th November 2024
● A detailed technical proposal outlining the methodology, work plan, and resources required.
● A financial proposal indicating all costs associated with the consultancy.
● Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.
● At least two references or testimonials from previous clients.
Submissions should be sent via email to hr@youthalivekenya.org with the subject line: Kiswahili Language
Training Consultant Application.
