Consultancy for Revision of Organizational Manuals (Human Resource, Finance, and Property Administration

  1.Background

The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Election Observation (CECOE) is a non-profit, non-governmental coalition of more than 175 member organizations, registered by the F.D.R.E. Authority for Civil Society Organisations (ACSO) in 2019 (Registration No. 4748) under Proclamation No. 1113/2019. CECOE works to strengthen and coordinate the role of Ethiopian civil society organizations in election observation, voter education, electoral conflict prevention, and capacity building. The organisation is accredited by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and has extensive experience conducting citizen election observation and voter education initiatives across the country, including during the 2019 Sidama Referendum, the 2021 General Elections, the 2023 referendums in South Ethiopia, and the 2024 outstanding and re-elections.

To support its operations, CECOE developed a set of organisational manuals effective 2023- 2026—namely the Human Resource Manual, Finance Manual, and Property Administration Manual—which have been in use for the past three years. These manuals were initially designed to guide the organisation’s operations during a defined period and under specific institutional and regulatory conditions.

Given the evolving operational environment, organisational growth, and changes in the civil society and regulatory landscape in Ethiopia, it is now necessary to revise and update these manuals. The revision aims to ensure that the manuals remain relevant, aligned with current best practices, and responsive to CECOE’s operational needs and sectoral demands.

  2. Objective of the Assignment

The overall objective of this consultancy is to review, update, and harmonise CECOE’s Human Resource, Finance, and Property Administration Manuals to ensure they are:

  • Aligned with the current organisational structure and operations
  • Compliant with applicable legal and regulatory frameworks in Ethiopia
  • Reflective of best practices in nonprofit management
  • Practical, user-friendly, and implementable

  3.Scope of Work

The consultant will undertake the following tasks:

 3.1. Review and Assessment

  • Conduct a comprehensive review of existing manuals (HR, Finance, Property Administration)
  • Assess gaps, inconsistencies, and outdated provisions
  • Review relevant national laws, regulations, and donor compliance requirements
  • Benchmark against best practices in civil society and nonprofit management

3.2. Stakeholder Consultation

  • Conduct consultations with CECOE management and staff
  • Identify operational challenges and priority areas for improvement
  • Incorporate feedback from key stakeholders

3.3. Revision and Updating

  • Revise and update the Human Resource Manual, including:
    • Recruitment and selection
    • Performance management
    • Staff development and training
    • Code of conduct and disciplinary procedures
  • Revise and update the Finance Manual, including:
    • Financial management and controls
    • Budgeting and reporting
    • Procurement procedures
    • Audit and compliance
  • Revise and update the Property Administration Manual, including:
    • Asset management
    • Inventory control
    • Procurement and disposal procedures

3.4. Harmonization and Alignment

  • Ensure consistency across all manuals
  • Align policies with CECOE’s organisational structure and strategy
  • Integrate cross-cutting issues such as accountability, transparency, and risk management

3.5. Validation and Finalization

  • Facilitate a validation workshop with CECOE stakeholders
  • Incorporate feedback and finalise the manuals
  • Submit final, clean, and user-friendly versions

  4. Deliverables

The consultant is expected to deliver:

  • Inception Report (methodology, work plan, timeline)
  • Assessment Report (key gaps and recommendations)
  • Draft Revised Manuals (HR, Finance, Property Administration)
  • Validation Workshop Report
  • Final Revised Manuals (approved and ready for use)

  5. Duration of the Assignment

The assignment is expected to be completed within 30 working days from the date of contract signing.

  6. Required Qualifications and Experience

The consultant (or consulting firm) should have:

  • Advanced degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Law, or related field
  • At least 10 years of relevant experience in organisational development and policy/manual development
  • Proven experience working with civil society organisations or NGOs
  • Strong knowledge of Ethiopian legal and regulatory frameworks for CSOs
  • Demonstrated experience in HR, financial management, and institutional systems development
  • Excellent analytical, writing, and facilitation skills

  7. Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will report to the CECOE Secretariat and work closely with designated focal persons. Regular progress updates will be required throughout the assignment.

  8. Payment Terms

Payment will be made based on agreed milestones, for example:

  • 30% upon submission of draft manuals
  • 40% upon validation workshop completion
  • 30% upon submission and approval of final manuals

  9. Application Requirements

Interested consultants should submit:

  • Technical proposal (methodology and work plan)
  • Financial proposal
  • Updated CV(s)
  • Samples of similar work (manuals/policies developed)

10. Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Technical expertise and experience
  • Understanding of the assignment
  • Quality of the proposed methodology
  • Financial proposal

For developing a training manual on election reporting and providing a two-day training for journalists and media stakeholders. 

1.1. Objectives 

To engage a consultant to develop a comprehensive training manual for media professionals on the role of civil society organization in observation, International electoral standards, election observation principles and methodologies, and professional standards for media reporting during elections, and to facilitate two training sessions for media professionals. 

1.2. Background 

CECOE is a non-profit, non-governmental civil society organization comprising over 175 member organizations. Looking ahead to the 7th General Election, anticipated for June 2026, CECOE will undertake a comprehensive program of activities, including voter education, comprehensive election observation (through the deployment of long-term and short-term observers), capacity-building workshops for electoral stakeholders, and advocacy for electoral reforms. 

The media play a crucial role in democracy, and a truly democratic election is impossible without them. A free and fair election involves not only the right to vote and knowledge of how to cast a ballot, but also a participatory process. Collaboration between media and civil society is essential, as election observer groups benefit greatly from strong engagement with media professionals. To fulfill these roles effectively, media professionals must maintain high standards of professionalism, accuracy, and impartiality in their coverage, supported by continuous engagement and capacity-building initiatives. 

To this end, CECOE seeks to engage a qualified consultant to develop a comprehensive training manual and curriculum (in English) for media professionals and stakeholders. 

The manual will cover the role of civil society organization in election, electoral standards, election observation principles and methodologies, Ethiopia’s legal framework governing media and elections, the

political media landscape, and the role of media in promoting transparent, ethical, and professional election reporting. In addition to preparing the manual, the consultant will facilitate a two-day training for Ethiopian media professionals and stakeholders based on the developed curriculum. 

1.3. Scope of work and Expected Outcome 

Training Manual Development 

○ Based on the research and identified gaps, develop a well-structured and comprehensive election reporting training manual for media stakeholders. 

○ Ensure the manual is aligned with Ethiopian legal frameworks, electoral standards, election observation principles, and best practices in professional and ethical election reporting. 

Training Coordination and Delivery 

○ Design and schedule a two one-day training program for media professionals and stakeholders. 

○ Identify potential trainees and manage invitations and confirmations. 

○ Facilitate the training sessions, ensuring interactive and practical engagement. Training Assessment 

○ Develop and administer pre- and post-training assessments to measure participants’ knowledge and learning outcomes. 

Reporting and Evaluation 

○ Prepare a comprehensive report documenting the training, including evaluation of participants, lessons learned, and impact assessment. 

○ Provide recommendations for future capacity-building initiatives for media in election reporting. 

1.4. Key Issues to Be Covered in the training 

A. Overview of the Electoral Cycle 

B. Role of Civil Society Organizations in Elections 

C. Engagement between Media and Election Stakeholders 

D. Election Reporting: legal and ethical considerations, source identification, and election news coverage 

E. Social media, misinformation and elections reporting 

1.5. Final Deliverable

● A comprehensive election reporting training manual 

● A two one-day training program 

● pre- and post-training assessments 

● A comprehensive training report 

2. Requirement for Educational background and Experience 

A. Educational and Professional Background 

○ A relevant Master’s degree (MSc or MA) in Journalism, Media Studies, Political Science, Communications, Law, Development Studies, or a related field. 

B. Relevant Experience 

○ 5–7 years in media training, election reporting, or election observation. 

○ Experience in developing training manuals, curricula, or learning materials. 

○ Prior work in media research, needs assessments, and stakeholder engagement. C. Skills and Competencies 

○ Ability to facilitate training and workshops effectively. 

○ Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills in English. 

○ Experience engaging media, civil society, and election stakeholders. 

D. Technical Approach 

○ Demonstrated understanding of the Ethiopian media landscape, electoral processes, and election observation principles. 

○ Practical approach for developing the manual and delivering the training. 

F. Deliverables and Timeliness 

○ Track record of producing high-quality reports and materials. 

○ Ability to meet deadlines and submit a comprehensive final report including training evaluation. 

3. Application and Deadline 

3.1. Documents to be submitted 

While submitting the application the Applicant shall, in particular, ensure to attach the following: 

1. Technical and financial proposal 

2. Profile of the consultant (max 1 page) explaining why they are the most suitable for the work. 3. Recent CV and sample work 4. Renewed business license, including VAT registration and Tin Number certificate 4. Timeframe

Terms of Reference (ToR) For Customizing the Design of a Manual into Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and SomaliBackground

Terms of Reference (ToR) For Customizing the Design of a Manual into Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali
Background
 
The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) comprises over 175 civil society organizations operating across all regional states and the two city administrations. CECOE was established in 2019 to augment and coordinate the roles of Ethiopian CSOs in election observation, monitoring, voter education, and the prevention of post-electoral conflicts. CECOE has a proven track record of success, having observed the 6th General Election of Ethiopia, the Sidama referendum, the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region referendum, the South Ethiopia referendum, and the referendum rerun in Wolaita Zone. CECOE has also been engaged in various advocacy activities, including advocating for electoral reforms, peacebuilding, and enhancing the participation of women in Ethiopian politics.
 
CECOE is currently implementing a project titled “Civic Education for Better Civic Engagement and Political Participation in Ethiopia.” This project is funded by the German Government and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH under the “Support to Good Governance (S2GG) in Ethiopia” as part of the project has developed a comprehensive manual has been developed that has already been translated into five languages: Amharic, English, Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali. The Amharic and English versions have been professionally designed and formatted, maintaining consistent layout, visuals, and branding standards.
Objective of the Assignment
The objective of this assignment is to adapt the existing manual design and layout (developed in Amharic and English) into Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali, ensuring that each version mirrors the original format, style, and visual identity.
Scope of Work
The selected company will be responsible for:
Design Adaptation


Use the existing InDesign or editable design files of the manual.
Insert the provided translated text (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, Somali) into the design template.
Maintain all visual elements, graphics, fonts, and styles consistent with the Amharic and English versions.


Formatting and Layout Adjustment


Ensure proper alignment, spacing, and readability of each language text.
Adjust font types and sizes where necessary to ensure compatibility with each script (e.g., Ethiopic and Latin).
Ensure page numbering, tables, and captions are correctly formatted.


Quality Assurance
Review and cross-check for any layout errors, missing text, or misaligned elements.
Conduct a visual proof with the organization’s team before finalizing.


Output and File Management


Produce both print-ready and web-optimized versions.
Submit editable source files (InDesign or equivalent) and final PDFs.


Deliverables and Timeline
Deliverable
Description
Timeline
Inception meeting & sample layout
Initial discussion and sample layout for one language
Within 5 days of signing the contract
Draft design layouts
First drafts of all 4 languages
Within 15 working days
Incorporation of feedback
Adjustments after review by CECOE
Within 5 working days
Final deliverables
Print-ready and editable versions for all 4 languages
Within 25 working days total
 
Deliverables
The design company will be required to submit the following items. All deliverables must be provided for each of the four languages specified (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali), ensuring consistency with the original Amharic and English versions.
Drafts for Review
Complete Digital Drafts: A full, PDF version of the manual for all four languages (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali). This draft is for the CECOE team to conduct the “visual proof” mentioned in the Scope of Work.
Final Production-Ready Files
Print-Ready PDFs (4 files): High-resolution, press-quality PDF files (one for each language). These files must be:
Exported in CMYK color mode.
Include necessary bleed and crop marks for professional printing.
Have all fonts and high-resolution graphics embedded.
Print-Ready PDFs (4 files): High-resolution, press-quality PDF files (one for each language). These files must be:
Exported in CMYK color mode.
Include necessary bleed and crop marks for professional printing.
Have all fonts and high-resolution graphics embedded.
Editable Source Files
The designer must provide all native, editable working files used to create the manuals. This package is crucial for [Name of Organization] to make future updates.
Packaged InDesign Files (4 folders): A complete, packaged Adobe InDesign (or equivalent) project folder for each of the four languages.
Each package must include:
The editable design file (.INDD).
An InDesign Markup (Interchange) file (.IDML) for backward compatibility with older software versions.
A “Links” folder containing all placed graphics, images, and visual elements.
A “Document Fonts” folder containing all specific font files used in the layout
Qualification Requirements
The design company should have:
Proven experience in graphic design and publication layout.
Experience working on multilingual publications (preferably in Ethiopian languages).
Proficiency in Adobe InDesign or equivalent design software.
Ability to meet deadlines and produce high-quality outputs.
A portfolio of previous, similar work.
Supervision and Reporting
The company will report to CECOE and work closely with CECOE’s communications team.
Duration of Assignment
The total duration of the assignment is 25 working days from the contract signing date.
Payment Terms
Milestone
Payment Percentage
Upon submission and approval of sample layout
30%
Upon submission of draft designs for all four languages
40%
Upon submission and approval of final deliverables
30%
 
Application Procedure
Interested and qualified design firms are invited to submit:
A brief technical proposal describing their approach and timeline.
A financial proposal with a detailed cost breakdown per language.
Company profile and relevant experience.
Samples of previous similar design work.

Customizing the Design of a Manual into Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali

Background
 
The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) comprises over 175 civil society organizations operating across all regional states and the two city administrations. CECOE was established in 2019 to augment and coordinate the roles of Ethiopian CSOs in election observation, monitoring, voter education, and the prevention of post-electoral conflicts. CECOE has a proven track record of success, having observed the 6th General Election of Ethiopia, the Sidama referendum, the South West Ethiopia Peoples’ Region referendum, the South Ethiopia referendum, and the referendum rerun in Wolaita Zone. CECOE has also been engaged in various advocacy activities, including advocating for electoral reforms, peacebuilding, and enhancing the participation of women in Ethiopian politics.
 
CECOE is currently implementing a project titled “Civic Education for Better Civic Engagement and Political Participation in Ethiopia.” This project is funded by the German Government and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH under the “Support to Good Governance (S2GG) in Ethiopia” as part of the project has developed a comprehensive manual has been developed that has already been translated into five languages: Amharic, English, Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali. The Amharic and English versions have been professionally designed and formatted, maintaining consistent layout, visuals, and branding standards.
Objective of the Assignment
The objective of this assignment is to adapt the existing manual design and layout (developed in Amharic and English) into Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali, ensuring that each version mirrors the original format, style, and visual identity.
Scope of Work
The selected company will be responsible for:
Design Adaptation


Use the existing InDesign or editable design files of the manual.
Insert the provided translated text (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, Somali) into the design template.
Maintain all visual elements, graphics, fonts, and styles consistent with the Amharic and English versions.


Formatting and Layout Adjustment


Ensure proper alignment, spacing, and readability of each language text.
Adjust font types and sizes where necessary to ensure compatibility with each script (e.g., Ethiopic and Latin).
Ensure page numbering, tables, and captions are correctly formatted.


Quality Assurance
Review and cross-check for any layout errors, missing text, or misaligned elements.
Conduct a visual proof with the organization’s team before finalizing.


Output and File Management


Produce both print-ready and web-optimized versions.
Submit editable source files (InDesign or equivalent) and final PDFs.


Deliverables and Timeline
Deliverable
Description
Timeline
Inception meeting & sample layout
Initial discussion and sample layout for one language
Within 5 days of signing the contract
Draft design layouts
First drafts of all 4 languages
Within 15 working days
Incorporation of feedback
Adjustments after review by CECOE
Within 5 working days
Final deliverables
Print-ready and editable versions for all 4 languages
Within 25 working days total
 
Deliverables
The design company will be required to submit the following items. All deliverables must be provided for each of the four languages specified (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali), ensuring consistency with the original Amharic and English versions.
Drafts for Review
Complete Digital Drafts: A full, PDF version of the manual for all four languages (Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Afar, and Somali). This draft is for the CECOE team to conduct the “visual proof” mentioned in the Scope of Work.
Final Production-Ready Files
Print-Ready PDFs (4 files): High-resolution, press-quality PDF files (one for each language). These files must be:
Exported in CMYK color mode.
Include necessary bleed and crop marks for professional printing.
Have all fonts and high-resolution graphics embedded.
Print-Ready PDFs (4 files): High-resolution, press-quality PDF files (one for each language). These files must be:
Exported in CMYK color mode.
Include necessary bleed and crop marks for professional printing.
Have all fonts and high-resolution graphics embedded.
Editable Source Files
The designer must provide all native, editable working files used to create the manuals. This package is crucial for [Name of Organization] to make future updates.
Packaged InDesign Files (4 folders): A complete, packaged Adobe InDesign (or equivalent) project folder for each of the four languages.
Each package must include:
The editable design file (.INDD).
An InDesign Markup (Interchange) file (.IDML) for backward compatibility with older software versions.
A “Links” folder containing all placed graphics, images, and visual elements.
A “Document Fonts” folder containing all specific font files used in the layout
Qualification Requirements
The design company should have:
Proven experience in graphic design and publication layout.
Experience working on multilingual publications (preferably in Ethiopian languages).
Proficiency in Adobe InDesign or equivalent design software.
Ability to meet deadlines and produce high-quality outputs.
A portfolio of previous, similar work.
Supervision and Reporting
The company will report to CECOE and work closely with CECOE’s communications team.
Duration of Assignment
The total duration of the assignment is 25 working days from the contract signing date.
Payment Terms
Milestone
Payment Percentage
Upon submission and approval of sample layout
30%
Upon submission of draft designs for all four languages
40%
Upon submission and approval of final deliverables
30%
 
Application Procedure
Interested and qualified design firms are invited to submit:
A brief technical proposal describing their approach and timeline.
A financial proposal with a detailed cost breakdown per language.
Company profile and relevant experience.
Samples of previous similar design work

TV Documentary Production: Women’s Media and Public Engagement in Ethiopia

Issuing Organization: Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE)
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Documentary Duration: 20 minutes
Language: Amharic
Submission Deadline: October 1, 2025 

1. Background

The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE), in collaboration with NIMD and supported by the European Union, seeks to produce a 20-minute documentary highlighting Ethiopian women’s participation in media and public engagement. The film will profile women as candidates, activists, community leaders, and civic educators, showcasing their challenges, achievements, and contributions to public engagement.

2. Objective

The objective of this documentary is to:

  • Highlight the lived experiences of Ethiopian women engaged in media and public engagement.
  • Showcase their contributions and media advocacy journey.
  • Inspire other women and girls to participate in leadership, public advocacy, and civic engagement.

3. Scope of Work

The selected production company will be responsible for the full production of a 20-minute high-quality documentary and a 2–3 minute promotional trailer, including all activities from concept development to final delivery, in close consultation with CECOE. The company will also provide progress updates and all supporting production materials.

4. Deliverables

  • 20-minute high-definition documentary in MP4 format.
  • 2–3 minute promotional trailer

6. Eligibility & Requirements

  • Demonstrated experience in TV documentary production 
  • Capability to produce high-quality video with professional equipment and crew.
  • Strong storytelling and editing skills.
  • Knowledge of women’s issues, political participation, and public engagement in Ethiopia is an advantage.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and adhere to CECOE’s standards and ethical guidelines.

7. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

  • Experience and capacity of the company (10%)
  • Quality and relevance of previous work (10%)
  • Technical approach and methodology (40%)
  • Cost-effectiveness and budget (40%)

8. Timeline

The production company is expected to complete the entire documentary production process — from concept development, filming, to final delivery — within one month from the contract start date. Final submission of the 20-minute documentary and the 2–3 minute promotional trailer must be completed by November 5.