Deadline: 25-Mar-2026
The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP) has launched its eighth operational phase in Libya and is recruiting a National Coordinator and Deputy National Coordinator. The programme supports civil society-led environmental initiatives in ecosystem conservation, sustainable agriculture, and chemicals and waste management, with grants of up to US$75,000. The positions will oversee portfolio development, stakeholder engagement, compliance, and transparent programme delivery in partnership with Conservation International and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.
Overview
The Small Grants Programme (SGP) is a flagship initiative of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). It provides:
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Financial support
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Technical assistance
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Capacity-building support
to civil society organizations (CSOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) implementing local environmental and livelihood projects.
In Phase 8 (OP8), the programme adopts a diversified implementation approach to increase funding access and strengthen local environmental action in Libya.
Key Thematic Areas in Libya (OP8)
The following themes are pre-identified for funding and portfolio development:
1. Ecosystem Conservation and Management
Supports community-led biodiversity protection in:
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Forests
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Grasslands
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Wetlands
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Marine habitats
Focus: Restoration, conservation, and sustainable management of ecosystems.
2. Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
Promotes climate-smart and sustainable practices such as:
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Smart irrigation systems
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Sustainable livestock management
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Fisheries productivity
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Agroecological practices
Goal: Strengthen local food systems while reducing environmental impact.
3. Chemicals and Waste Management
Encourages practical solutions for:
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Plastic waste
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Electronic waste (e-waste)
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Mercury management
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Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
Objective: Reduce pollution and improve community-level waste handling systems.
Role of the National Coordinator
The National Coordinator will report to the CEPF Grant Director for the Mediterranean Basin.
Core Responsibilities
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Develop and manage a portfolio of small grants (up to US$75,000 each)
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Align grants with the Country Programme Strategy for Libya
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Launch and manage calls for proposals
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Support applicants throughout the selection process
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Monitor grantee implementation
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Ensure compliance and transparent financial management
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Report on programme impact
The Coordinator will work under the strategic guidance of the National Steering Committee.
Role of the Deputy National Coordinator
The Deputy National Coordinator will:
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Focus on administrative and budgetary oversight
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Support financial reporting and compliance
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Contribute to programme implementation
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Assist in monitoring and operational management
Both roles are long-term consulting contracts and require strong governance, reporting, and stakeholder coordination skills.
Institutional Partnerships
The programme is implemented in partnership with:
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Conservation International
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Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund
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Regional implementation team for the Mediterranean Basin led by BirdLife International
This collaboration strengthens regional integration and knowledge exchange across Mediterranean countries.
Who Is Eligible for Support Under SGP?
Although this announcement focuses on recruitment, the programme itself supports:
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Community-Based Organizations (CBOs)
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Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
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Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
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Women-led and youth-led organizations
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Marginalized and vulnerable community groups
The National Coordinator must ensure inclusive access to funding opportunities.
Why This Programme Matters for Libya
This initiative is strategically important because it:
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Strengthens Libya’s environmental governance
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Builds capacity of civil society actors
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Supports biodiversity conservation
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Enhances food security and sustainable livelihoods
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Promotes pollution reduction and safer waste management
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Encourages regional collaboration within the Mediterranean Basin
The programme also contributes to global environmental benefits through locally driven action.
Key Competencies Required for the Roles
Applicants for Coordinator positions should demonstrate:
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Strong programme management experience
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Understanding of Libya’s governance and civil society landscape
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Risk management and compliance expertise
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Financial oversight and reporting skills
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Stakeholder engagement and facilitation capacity
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Knowledge of environmental and biodiversity issues
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Awareness of security and operational risks in Libya
How the Small Grants Portfolio Works
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The National Steering Committee sets strategic direction.
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Calls for proposals are launched.
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CSOs and CBOs submit project proposals.
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Proposals are reviewed and selected.
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Grants of up to US$75,000 are awarded.
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Implementation is monitored and reported.
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Environmental and livelihood impacts are measured.
Common Implementation Risks to Manage
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Weak financial reporting by grantees
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Limited capacity among grassroots organizations
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Security and operational disruptions
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Governance and compliance challenges
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Environmental project sustainability risks
The Coordinator plays a central role in mitigating these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP)?
It is a funding mechanism under the Global Environment Facility that supports local civil society organizations in delivering environmental and livelihood projects.
2. What is the maximum grant size in Libya under Phase 8?
Individual grants can be up to US$75,000.
3. What are the main thematic priorities?
Ecosystem conservation, sustainable agriculture and food security, and chemicals and waste management.
4. Who oversees the programme in Libya?
The National Coordinator, under the National Steering Committee and reporting to the CEPF Grant Director for the Mediterranean Basin.
5. What is the role of the Deputy National Coordinator?
Primarily administrative, financial, and operational support to ensure transparent programme delivery.
6. Who implements the programme regionally?
The Mediterranean Basin regional team led by BirdLife International.
7. Who benefits from SGP funding?
Local NGOs, CSOs, CBOs, and especially women-led, youth-led, and marginalized groups.
Conclusion
The launch of GEF-SGP Phase 8 in Libya marks a significant opportunity to strengthen environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods through civil society leadership. The recruitment of a National Coordinator and Deputy National Coordinator is central to ensuring transparent, inclusive, and impactful programme implementation.
These roles offer a strategic platform to shape Libya’s environmental future while integrating local actors into broader Mediterranean conservation efforts.
For more information, visit CEPF.