Call for Consultancy to Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment of Financial Inclusion Barriers Hindering Access to Loans from Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and Banks – SUIDAC Project.

Borama-based Borama Local Government is looking to fill the role of Call for Consultancy to Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment of Financial Inclusion Barriers Hindering Access to Loans from Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and Banks – SUIDAC Project.. The role requires a skilled individual with 7 - 8 years of experience in Consultancies or a related field. Interested applicants should submit their applications before Apr, 20. Terms of Reference (ToR) Consultant. Subject: Call for Consultancy to Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment of Financial Inclusion Barriers Hindering Access to Loans from Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and Banks – SUIDAC Project. Project Title: Sustainable Urban Infrastructure and Development Financial Inclusion AssessmentClient: SUIDAC PROJECT, Borama Local GovernmentLocation: Borama CityType of Assignment: Short-term Consultancy 1. Background Borama is one of Somaliland’s fastest-growing economic hubs, characterized by a vibrant SME sector, agricultural trade, and a growing youth population. However, sustainable urban development and economic resilience are often hampered by the limited access to formal credit and financial services. Under the SUIDAC Project, Borama Municipality aims to foster an inclusive economic environment. Currently, many local entrepreneurs, particularly women, youth, and vulnerable groups, face significant hurdles in securing loans from Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and commercial banks. To address these challenges, the municipality requires a detailed evidence-based assessment to identify the systemic, regulatory, and socio-economic barriers to financial inclusion. 2. Objectives of the Assignment Overall ObjectiveTo conduct a comprehensive assessment of the barriers preventing local businesses and individuals in Borama from accessing credit/loans and to provide actionable recommendations to improve financial inclusion. Specific Objectives Identify the demand-side barriers (e.g., lack of collateral, high-interest rates/markup, lack of financial literacy). Identify the supply-side barriers (e.g., stringent bank requirements, lack of tailored products, risk perception). Assess the regulatory and legal framework governing local micro-credit and banking. Analyze the impact of Sharia-compliance requirements on loan accessibility. Map existing MFIs and Banks in Borama and evaluate their current lending portfolios to SMEs. Provide strategic rec === Skills & Qualifications === contract. 7. Consultant Qualifications & Experience Education: Advanced degree in Finance, Banking, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience: Minimum 7 years of experience in the financial sector, microfinance, or economic development research. Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Somaliland banking sector, Islamic Finance (Murabaha, etc.), and SME financing. Context: Proven experience working in Somaliland; familiarity with Borama’s socio-economic landscape is an advantage. Skills: Strong analytical, statistical, and report-writing skills in English (Somali language proficiency is essential for field data collection). For Consulting Firm / Company The consulting firm should have: Legal registration and demonstrated operational presence in relevant sectors. Valid tax exemption Proven track record in successfully delivering in delivering similar consultanty Demonstrated experience working in Somaliland or similar f --- About Borama --- Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa and has a growing job market, particularly in the humanitarian, development, and private sectors. Major employment hubs include Mogadishu, Hargeisa, Garowe, Baidoa, and Kismayo, with opportunities from international NGOs, UN agencies, government institutions, and an expanding private sector. Ereyada Soomaaliga (Somali Keywords): Shaqo Cusub • La-talinta • Shaqo Soomaaliya • La-talin

contract. 7. Consultant Qualifications & Experience Education: Advanced degree in Finance, Banking, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience: Minimum 7 years of experience in the financial sector, microfinance, or economic development research. Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Somaliland banking sector, Islamic Finance (Murabaha, etc.), and SME financing. Context: Proven experience working in Somaliland; familiarity with Borama’s socio-economic landscape is an advantage. Skills: Strong analytical, statistical, and report-writing skills in English (Somali language proficiency is essential for field data collection). For Consulting Firm / Company The consulting firm should have: Legal registration and demonstrated operational presence in relevant sectors. Valid tax exemption Proven track record in successfully delivering in delivering similar consultanty Demonstrated experience working in Somaliland or similar fragile and decentralized contexts. Availability of a multidisciplinary team with relevant expertise (e.g., public finance specialists, economists, governance experts, and capacity-building specialists). Strong organizational capacity in project management, stakeholder engagement, and high-quality report delivery. Evidence of successfully completed similar assignments (with references and sample 8. Reporting & Coordination The consultant will report directly to the SUIDAC Project Manager. Coordination will be maintained with the Borama Municipality Planning Department and SUIDAC implementation partners. 9. Payment System Inception Report: 20% Field Work & Data Collection completion: 30% Submission of Draft Report: 30% Approval of Final Report: 20% 10. Proposal Submission Requirements Interested consultants/firms should submit: Technical Proposal: Understanding of the ToR. Proposed methodology and sampling techniques. Detailed work plan. CVs of the lead consultant and team members. Financial Proposal: Itemiz

12. Submission of Proposal Proposals should be submitted via email to: [email protected] or [email protected]. Hard copies can also be delivered to the Borama Municipality Office – Procurement Office. Subject Line: Consultancy for Assessment of Financial Inclusion Barriers – SUIDAC Project. Apply on [email protected] Apply at: mailto:[email protected]