The assignment involves conducting a baseline survey for the Sustainable Markets and Agribusiness Competitiveness (SMAC+) project implemented by Caritas Switzerland (CACH) in South Sudan. The purpose of the baseline is to establish a robust evidence base to inform program design, validate the Theory of Change, and set benchmarks for measuring systemic change over the life of the project. 1. The study focuses on market systems dynamics within agricultural value chains, with particular attention to: 2. Market actor roles, relationships, and performance 3. Trust, coordination, and market norms 4. Adoption of innovations and business practices 5. Strength and quality of relationships 6. Enabling environment and institutional support 7. Inclusion of women, youth, and returnees The baseline will generate actionable insights to support adaptive management, learning, and evidence-based decision-making throughout SMAC+ implementation.

MarketShare Associates (MSA) serves as the lead technical partner, responsible for the end-to-end design and delivery of the SMAC+ baseline survey. MSA develops the evaluation framework, designs mixed-methods research tools, and leads data collection through surveys and key informant interviews. The team ensures high-quality, gender- and youth-sensitive data through rigorous quality assurance and stakeholder coordination. MSA also conducts data analysis and facilitates sensemaking with stakeholders to validate findings. The engagement culminates in a clear, actionable baseline report and recommendations to support adaptive management and ongoing learning. Overall, MSA acts as both a research provider and strategic learning partner, strengthening Caritas Switzerland’s ability to measure and drive systemic change