The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) invites applications from experienced and qualified consultants to lead the harmonisation and synthesis of country research reports into a consolidated regional report on polarisation in West Africa.
Background
Over the past five years, West Africa has experienced increasing democratic backsliding, political instability, violent extremism, military coups, shrinking civic spaces, and growing social tensions. While these challenges have received considerable attention, the role of polarisation as a key underlying driver has often been overlooked.
Across the region, affective polarisation where individuals and groups increasingly view those with opposing political, ethnic, religious, or ideological affiliations with hostility and distrust has deepened divisions and weakened social cohesion. This trend has contributed to hardline group loyalties, policy paralysis, democratic erosion, and heightened tensions over political power, economic opportunities, and access to resources. Rapid population growth, youth unemployment, gender-related tensions, and the increasing spread of polarising narratives through traditional and social media have further exacerbated the problem.
Despite its growing impact on peace, democracy, and development, polarisation remains under-researched. There are also limited limited regional initiatives specifically focused on understanding and addressing the phenomenon.
To generate evidence on this growing challenge, the MFWA has commissioned country studies in six West African countries: Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo and Burkina Faso. The country studies will assess the state, drivers, manifestations, and consequences of polarisation and identify opportunities for depolarisation.
The MFWA is therefore seeking a Lead Consultant to work closely with the country researchers and synthesise their findings into a comprehensive regional report that highlights cross-country trends, emerging patterns, key actors, and policy recommendations for addressing polarisation in West Africa.
Scope of Work
The Lead Consultant will:
• Review and analyse the six country research reports.
• Work closely with the country researchers to design the methodology for the study
• Work closely with the country researchers to ensure consistency in analytical frameworks, concepts, and reporting standards.
• Identify common trends, similarities, differences, and unique country dynamics relating to polarisation.
• Develop a comparative regional analysis drawing insights from all six countries.
• Produce a consolidated regional report that integrates country findings into a coherent regional narrative.
• Develop evidence-based regional recommendations for civil society organisations, media actors, policymakers, development partners, and regional institutions.
• Participate in review meetings and incorporate feedback from the MFWA and relevant stakeholders.
• Present the key findings of the regional report at a stakeholder validation or dissemination event.
Deliverables
The selected consultant will be expected to deliver:
1. A brief inception note outlining the approach and methodology for harmonising the country reports.
2. A synthesis framework to guide the comparative analysis of the six country studies.
3. A draft regional report on polarisation in West Africa.
4. A final regional report incorporating comments and feedback from the MFWA and stakeholders.
5. A presentation of key findings and recommendations.
All deliverables must be clear, evidence-based, policy-oriented, and suitable for advocacy and public dissemination.
Required Qualifications
Interested applicants should demonstrate:
• An advanced degree in Political Science, International Relatioons, Peace and Conflict Studies, Sociology, Development Studies, Governance, Media Studies, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of experience conducting high-level research, policy analysis, or regional studies in West Africa.
• Demonstrated experience in synthesising multi-country research and producing regional reports.
• Strong understanding of governance, democracy, social cohesion, conflict dynamics, civic space, and media ecosystems in West Africa.
• Excellent analytical, writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to coordinate and work effectively with multidisciplinary and geographically dispersed research teams.
• Proficiency in English. Working knowledge of French will be a strong advantage.
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit:
• A technical proposal outlining their understanding of the assignment, methodology, and work plan.
• A financial proposal indicating consultancy fees.
• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience.
• At least two samples of similar regional or multi-country research reports previously undertaken.
• Contact details of at least two professional referees.
Submission of Applications
Interested applicants should submit their applications no later than Tuesday, July 3, 2026, to [email protected] with the subject line:
Application – Lead Consultant for Regional Research Report on Polarisation in West Africa
Applicants should copy [email protected] in their submission.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the process may close once a suitable candidate is identified. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
The MFWA reserves the right to accept or reject any application without assigning reasons.
