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Terms of Reference: Estimating the size of the ‘pre-cook’ sector in Kenya, Ghana or Nigeria

Date
21st August 2026
Categories
electric cooking, Invitation to Tender

Background to the Assignment

The demand for convenient, nutritious, and affordable pre-cooked food options is rapidly increasing in urban and peri-urban areas in Africa. The pre-cook sector represents a potentially vast market for modern cooking transitions and productive use of energy (PUE) applications. MECS research in 2025/2026 demonstrated significant potential for electric cooking through pilot projects in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana, which produced pre-cooked food items such as canned mushroom sauces, fermented African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs), githeri, and oil-free cassava crisps. These projects highlighted how eCooking transitions provided opportunities to improve productivity, reduce operating costs, and support enterprise growth.

Scope of Work

MECS is seeking a consultant/s or organisation to conduct a study to develop understanding of the size of the pre-cook sector in Kenya, Ghana or Nigeria.

The aim of the study is to estimate the number of pre-cook businesses operating within a specific context in Kenya, Ghana or Nigeria and to provide disaggregated data concerning the characteristics of the pre-cook businesses operating in the selected areas or segments. In addressing these aims, applicants should demonstrate how the methodology proposed will advance understanding of the pre-cook segment or broader sector.

How to Apply 

We advise you to read the full Terms of Reference, and information on how to apply carefully at this link:

Full ToR and How to Apply Guide

Important information

  • The total grant available is maximum of £8,000 (including any locally payable VAT, taxes, and charges).
  • The study is expected to commence no later than 19th October 2026.
  • All deliverables must be completed and delivered by 31st January 2027 (15 weeks).
  • Please send your submission to mecs@lboro.ac.uk with the subject ‘Estimating pre-cook sector size in Kenya, Ghana or Nigeria’.

Deadline 

All proposals must be received by 13th September 2026, 23:55 British Summer Time (BST). The time will be determined using the time of arrival in the MECS inbox. Any offers received after 23:55 will be rejected.

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Featured Image: Jacob Fodio Todd, 2025.