About GEF SGP 

The GEF SGP implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), supports community-based and grassroots initiatives that address global environmental challenges while improving local livelihoods. SGP aims to deliver global environmental benefits in the GEF focal areas of biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, protection of international waters, prevention of land degradation, and phasing out of harmful chemicals through community-based approaches. SGP is rooted in the belief that global environmental problems can best be addressed if local communities are involved and direct community benefits and ownership is generated.

SGP is decentralized and implemented in a transparent and country-driven manner facilitated by the National Coordinator. SGP grants are awarded based on decisions made by the voluntary National Steering Committee (NSC) guided by a Country Programme Strategy developed on the basis of national environment and development priorities. Our current Strategy under GEF Operational Phase 8 has prioritised community-based wildlife economy projects contributing towards the implementation of government’s National Biodiversity Economy Strategy (NBES). Other projects prioritised include those focusing on water, waste and energy as well as ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction. 

Scope of work and Responsibilities 

The NSC is the central element of SGP and provides the major substantive contribution to and oversight of the Country Programme. The NSC typically comprises of voluntary representatives from NGOs/community-based organizations (CBOs), government, academia, donor organisations, UNDP country office and private sector, with a majority of members coming from the non-governmental sector.

The members of the NSC:

• Provide overall strategic guidance and direction to the country programme and contribute to development and implementation of strategies for country programme sustainability.

• Assist the National Coordinator (NC) in development of the Country Programme Strategy in line with the global Strategic Framework and national environmental priorities, as well as oversee its implementation.

• Select and approve project proposals, ensuring alignment with programme strategy, national priorities, safeguarding transparency, inclusivity and community-driven development.

• Ensure transparency and impartiality of the NSC activities, striving to avoid any appearance of conflict of interest or undue influence.

• Assist the National Coordinator in resource mobilization through seeking partnership and co-funding opportunities.

• The NSC members are also encouraged to participate in project site visits as well as project monitoring and evaluation.  

Participation in the NSC is voluntary, without monetary remuneration or compensation. However, travel expenses for project site visits or to NSC meetings are covered by SGP. 

Time commitment: Members serve a three-year term, with a possibility of one-time renewal. A maximum of 3 (three) on-site meetings are held annually in Pretoria. Meetings, including ad-hoc sessions, can be convened virtually as required.

Who Should Apply

We are seeking passionate, committed individuals based in South Africa, who have strong understanding of and dedication to community and grassroots development, particularly within environment and sustainable development contexts. 

Applications are currently sought from candidates in the following categories: 

• Youth Representative with experience in youth-led development and environment-related initiatives.

• Small Business Development specialist with expertise in enterprise development, sustainable livelihoods or community-level economic development. 

• Civil Society Representatives, including individuals affiliated with or experienced in NGOs, Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), other grassroot or civil society structures working directly with communities.  

Requirements

Ideal candidates should demonstrate the following: 

• Commitment to community empowerment and grassroot development.

• Practical experience working with local communities and good working knowledge on one or more of the GEF focal areas (biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainable land management, sustainable forest management and waste management).

• Ability to contribute constructively to collective decision-making.

• Willingness to dedicate time to NSC responsibilities.

How to Apply and Submission Deadline

A complete application should consist of: 

1. A motivation letter also indicating speciality (e.g. youth representative, small business development specialist or civil society representative) and GEF focal area of expertise and interest/s. 

2. a full CV of the applicant 

Interested candidates are requested to send their applications to bids.za@undp.org by 6th of March  2026 with the subject line: GEF SGP NSC Membership Application. No late applications will be accepted. Queries can be emailed to Gefsgp.sa@undp.org.