Call for Consultant – AWHF Publications

Background

The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) was created in 2006 to support the effective conservation and protection of cultural and natural heritage of outstanding universal value in Africa. The main objective of AWHF is to address the challenges faced by African State Parties in the implementation of the 1972 Convention, specifically, the underrepresentation of African sites on the World Heritage List and the insufficient conservation and management of these sites. In commemoration of AWHF’s 20th Anniversary in 2026, a series of celebratory initiatives, including the production of high-quality publications, are planned to enhance visibility and support for the Fund’s mission. These publications include:

• A special edition 20th Anniversary Coffee Table Book A visually captivating coffee table book showcasing African World Heritage Sites.
• An AWHF Grants Booklet highlighting the Fund’s grants and their transformative impact across the continent

Objectives

The consultant will be responsible for:

• Researching, designing, and producing a visually appealing coffee table book that celebrates African World Heritage Sites, capturing their natural, cultural, historical significance.
• Developing a grants booklet that documents the types and impact of AWHF’s grant mechanisms, supporting State Parties in implementing the World Heritage Convention.

Scope of Work

 Coffee Table Book

• Content Development: Research and curate information on each African World Heritage Site, including historical context, significance, conservation status, and high-quality images.
• Structure and Layout: Design a structure that enhances readability and visual appeal, possibly including sections by region or heritage type (cultural, natural, and mixed sites).
• Quality Control: Ensure factual accuracy and high editorial standards, including proofreading, editing, and alignment with AWHF’s branding.
• Visuals and Photography: Source or commission high-quality images (if needed) to support the narrative, including necessary copyright clearances.
• Develop an engaging narrative: including forewords, prefaces, and introductory sections that capture the significance of AWHF’s work.

AWHF Grants Booklet

• Content Compilation: Develop content that explains each type of AWHF grant (Nomination, Conservation, Education, and Emergency Grants), including eligibility criteria, grant allocation statistics, and exemplary case studies.
• Impact Narratives: Document success stories and impact narratives from grant beneficiaries, highlighting the real-world impact on heritage conservation, site inscription, educational support, and emergency responses.
• Design and Layout: Create an engaging, user-friendly layout that enhances the accessibility of the information for diverse audiences.
• Highlight specific grant-supported projects, including objectives, activities, and measurable outcomes, to demonstrate the impact on African World Heritage Sites and local communities.
• Conduct online interviews or consultations with past grant recipients to capture testimonials and success stories.

Deliverables

20th Anniversary Coffee Table Book and AWHF Grants Booklet:

• Initial concept proposal (including themes, sample layouts, and visual elements)
• Draft manuscript with selected content and images for review
• Final design and print-ready and digital files, including front and back covers.

Required Expertise

The ideal Consultant should possess:

• Demonstrable experience in producing high-quality publications, particularly in the heritage, conservation, or nonprofit sectors.
• Proven graphic design and layout skills, with proficiency in relevant design software.
• Strong research, writing, and editorial skills.
• Knowledge of African cultural heritage and World Heritage Site conservation challenges.
• Knowledge of English and French languages.

Application Requirements

Interested applicants should submit:

• A detailed proposal outlining the approach, methodology, and timeline for the project.
• A Resume and/or portfolio showcasing relevant previous work, especially any similar coffee table books, reports, or publications.
• Financial proposal indicating the consultancy fee and any additional costs.

Evaluation Criteria

• Experience and Expertise: Relevance of prior work in heritage publications, coffee table books, or similar projects.
• Quality of Portfolio: Demonstrated quality, creativity, and professionalism in previous publications.
• Budget Proposal: Cost-effectiveness and clarity of the financial proposal.
• Timeline Feasibility: Ability to meet project timelines and deliver high-quality work.

Application Submissions

To complete your submission (with all supporting documentation), click on this link: Application Submissions