Reaching the Last Mile (RLMF) Direct Funding Model is seeking a Independent Consultant-Apply before 17 Mar 2026

International development organizations increasingly explore innovative funding approaches to strengthen national health systems and improve programme ownership. One such initiative is the Direct Funding Model pilot in Togo, which is now undergoing an independent review.

The global development organization Sightsavers is seeking an Independent Consultant to evaluate this pilot initiative implemented in partnership with the Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF). The consultancy will assess how the funding model functioned in practice and provide strategic recommendations to guide future implementation.

About Sightsavers

Sightsavers is an international development organization dedicated to preventing avoidable blindness and promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities. The organization works in several countries across Africa and Asia to improve access to healthcare, education, and inclusive economic opportunities.

In addition to eye health programmes, Sightsavers supports national efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and strengthen public health systems. Its partnerships with governments, donors, and global initiatives aim to deliver sustainable health solutions that reach the most vulnerable populations.

The Reaching the Last Mile Fund Initiative

The consultancy relates to a pilot initiative funded by the Reaching the Last Mile Fund, a multi-donor financing mechanism that supports national programmes targeting neglected tropical diseases across sub-Saharan Africa.

RLMF focuses on accelerating the elimination of diseases that disproportionately affect underserved communities. By providing financial support and strategic partnerships, the fund helps governments scale up disease control and elimination programmes.

In 2025, the fund piloted a Direct Funding Model in Togo, allowing funds to flow directly to the national Ministry of Health rather than through traditional intermediary channels.

Purpose of the Consultancy

The main goal of this consultancy is to conduct an independent review of the RLMF Direct Funding Model pilot in Togo. The review will assess how the model was implemented and whether it effectively supported government-led programme delivery.

The findings will help determine whether this funding approach can be expanded or adapted for future programmes across other countries.

The consultant will also identify lessons learned and provide practical recommendations to strengthen the funding model.

Scope of Work

The consultant will examine the pilot from multiple perspectives, focusing on implementation performance, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

Key areas of assessment include:

• Design intent and implementation fidelity – whether the pilot was implemented according to its original design
• Use of funding flexibility – how the model allowed the Ministry of Health to adapt resources to programmatic needs
• Programmatic and technical performance – results achieved within the pilot programme
• Financial and institutional management – effectiveness of financial oversight and governance structures
• Stakeholder perceptions – views from government officials, partners, and programme stakeholders regarding accountability and sustainability

The evaluation will generate insights that help inform future funding strategies for neglected tropical disease programmes.

Key Deliverables

The selected consultant will be responsible for producing several key outputs during the assignment.

These include:

• Inception report and workplan outlining the evaluation methodology
• Draft review report presenting preliminary findings
• Final evaluation report incorporating feedback from stakeholders
• Facilitation of stakeholder validation meetings to discuss findings and recommendations

The deliverables will help Sightsavers and its partners assess the effectiveness of the pilot funding model and refine it for future use.

Duration and Work Location

The consultancy will run for approximately six weeks.

Key logistical details include:

• Start date: Expected between April and May 2026
• Work format: Primarily remote
• Travel: One visit to Togo may be required, with a potential visit to the United Kingdom depending on project needs

The remote nature of the consultancy allows for flexible collaboration with project stakeholders while ensuring direct engagement during the evaluation process.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Candidates applying for the consultancy should have strong experience in programme evaluation within health or development sectors.

Essential qualifications include:

• Demonstrated experience conducting programme reviews or evaluations
• Strong knowledge of donor funding mechanisms and government-led implementation models
• Experience applying mixed-methods research approaches
• Excellent analytical and report-writing skills
• Fluency in both English and French, written and spoken

These skills are critical for analyzing programme performance and communicating findings clearly to diverse stakeholders.

Desirable Experience

While not mandatory, additional experience in the following areas would be advantageous:

• Work on neglected tropical disease programmes
• Familiarity with the Togolese health system
• Experience facilitating participatory workshops or stakeholder consultations

Such expertise would support more effective engagement with national stakeholders and programme partners.

Application Process

Interested consultants must submit an Expression of Interest through the Sightsavers recruitment portal.

The application should include:

• Curriculum vitae (or team CVs if applying as a group)
• A completed online Expression of Interest form
• Budget details for the consultancy
• Examples of previous similar evaluation work

Interviews are expected to take place during the week beginning 23 March 2026, and selected candidates will undergo background and safeguarding checks before final appointment.

Contributing to Innovation in Global Health Financing

This consultancy provides a unique opportunity for experienced evaluators to contribute to innovative approaches in development financing. By reviewing the pilot initiative supported by Sightsavers and the Reaching the Last Mile Fund, the selected consultant will help shape how international funding can better support government-led health programmes.

The findings from this evaluation could play an important role in strengthening future strategies to eliminate neglected tropical diseases and improve healthcare systems across Africa.

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