1. RFP.NO. 72064121R00006 RING II.pdf

Request for Proposals (RFP) No.: 72064121R00006 Issuance Date: July 21, 2021 Deadline for Questions: August 2, 2021 at 1700 GMT

Closing Date and Time: August 23, 2021 at 1700 GMT

Subject: RESILIENCE IN NORTHERN GHANA - HEALTH STRENGTHENING (RING II) Activity

To All Prospective Offerors:

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking proposals to provide to provide technical assistance and support to USAID/Ghana’s RESILIENCE IN NORTHERN GHANA -

HEALTH STRENGTHENING (RING II) as described in the attached Request for Proposal (RFP).

USAID/Ghana anticipates awarding one Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee Completion type contract for an anticipated five-year period. The estimated total cost-plus fixed fee for this award is up to $24 million. The $24 million is subject to availability of funds. Offerors should not strive to meet the maximum amount; rather, Offerors should propose costs that are appropriate, realistic, and reasonable, and in accordance with the proposed approach for achieving results. The principal geographic code for this contract is 937 and the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 541990.

This procurement is being conducted through full and open competition for which the procedures for "contracting by negotiation, trade-off process,” as described in Part 15 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation

(FAR), will apply. All types of organizations are eligible to compete. In support of implementation and procurement reforms, USAID is interested in expanding the number and sustainability of development partners. As a result, USAID/Ghana encourages proposals from potential new and/or local partners.

This RFP can be viewed and downloaded from the https://beta.sam.gov/ website. USAID reserves the right to amend or rescind this solicitation at any time. If substantive questions are received that affect the response to the solicitation, or if changes are made to the closing date and time as well as other aspects of the RFP, this solicitation will be revised, and amendments will be issued and posted on the https://beta.sam.gov website. USAID advises to regularly check the above website for amendments.

USAID requires offerors to refer to Section H of this solicitation to become fully aware of the prohibitions associated with Section 889(a)(1)(B) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019, effective August 13, 2020, which prohibits executive agencies from entering into, or extending or renewing, a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. More detailed information of the Section 889(a)(1)(B) NDDA provisions is included in Section H.38 of the solicitation.

If your organization would like to submit a proposal in response to this solicitation, it must be submitted in accordance with Section L of this RFP. Questions and Proposals must be submitted only electronically via email on or before the due dates stipulated above to Ruth Amegashie at ramegashie@usaid.gov and Sheila

Bumpass at sbumpass@USAID.gov. Late proposals will be handled in accordance with FAR 15.208. This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a contract nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the proposal. USAID appreciates the time and effort put in preparing proposals in response to this solicitation.

USAID appreciates the time and effort put in preparing proposals in response to this solicitation.

Sincerely, Keisha Effiom

Director, Regional Acquisition and Assistance Office USAID/West Africa https://beta.sam.gov/ https://beta.sam.gov/ mailto:ramegashie@usaid.gov mailto:sbumpass@USAID.gov

RFP No. 72064121R00006 RING11 Activity

Offeror must download the most recent version of the SF 33 on www.gsa.gov to prepare its offer.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – THE SCHEDULE 8

SECTION B – SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS 8

B.1 PURPOSE 8

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE AND CONTRACT SERVICES 8

B.3 ESTIMATED COST, FIXED FEE, AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT 8

B.4 CONTRACT BUDGET LINE ITEMS 8

B.5 ADVANCE UNDERSTANDING ON CEILING INDIRECT COST RATES AND FINAL 9

B.6 COST REIMBURSABLE 9

B.7 PAYMENT OF FIXED FEE 10

SECTION C – PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT 11

SECTION D – BRANDING AND MARKING 12

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993) 12

D.2 BRANDING AND MARKING POLICY 12

D.3 BRANDING STRATEGY 12

D.4 ANTICIPATED ELEMENTS OF A MARKING PLAN 13

D.5 APPROVAL OF CONTRACTOR BRANDING IMPLEMENTATION PLAN AND MARKING

PLAN 13

D.6 SOCIAL MEDIA AND OUTREACH 14

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 15

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 15

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 15

E.3 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION 15

E.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP) 16

[END OF SECTION E] 16

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 17

F.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE 17

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE 17

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE 17

F.4 KEY PERSONNEL 17

F.5 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM 19

F.6 AUTHORIZED WORK WEEK 19

F.7 REPORTS, PLANS, AND OTHER DELIVERABLES 19

F.8 REPORTING AND DELIVERABLE MATRIX 28

F.9 PROGRAM PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS 30

F.10 AUDIT 30

F.11 AIDAR 752.242-70 PERIODIC PROGRESS REPORTS (OCT 2007) 30

F.12 AIDAR 752.7005 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCE

DOCUMENTS (SEPT 2013) 30

F.13 PERFORMANCE STANDARD 32

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 34

G.1 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER 34

G.2 CONTRACTING OFFICER’S AUTHORITY 34

G.3 CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE 34

G.4 TECHNICAL DIRECTIONS/RELATIONSHIP WITH USAID 34

G.5 ACCEPTANCE AND APPROVAL 35

G.6 PAYING OFFICE AND INVOICING INSTRUCTIONS 35

G.7 AIDAR 752.7003 DOCUMENTATION FOR PAYMENT (NOV 1998) 36

G.8 ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 37

G.9 CONTRACTOR’S PRIMARY POINT OF CONTACT 37

G.10 AIDAR 752.228-9 CARGO INSURANCE (DEC 1998) 37

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 38

H.1 REQUESTS FOR CONSENT TO SUBCONTRACT 38

H.2 SUBCONTRACTING PLAN AND THE SF 294 – SUBCONTRACTING REPORT FOR

INDIVIDUAL CONTRACTS AND SF 295 – SUMMARY CONTRACTING REPORT 38

H.3 SUBCONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS 38

H.4 AUTHORIZED GEOGRAPHIC CODE 40

H.5 AIDAR 752.7007 PERSONNEL COMPENSATION (JULY 2007) 40

H.6 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL COMPENSATION 40

H.7 EMPLOYMENT OF THIRD COUNTRY NATIONALS (TCN’S) AND COOPERATING

COUNTRY NATIONALS (CCN’S) (AIDAR 722.170) 41

H.8 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONNEL 43

H.9 LOGISTIC SUPPORT 43

H.10 ELECTRONIC AND INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

ACCESSIBILITY (APRIL 2018) 43

H.11 MEDIA AND INFORMATION HANDLING AND PROTECTION (APRIL 2018) 44

H.12 PRIVACY AND SECURITY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS INCIDENT

REPORTING (APRIL 2018) 46

H.13 SKILLS AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR PRIVACY AND SECURITY STAFF

(APRIL 2018) 50

H.14 CLOUD COMPUTING (APRIL 2018) 51

H.15 LIMITATION ON ACQUISITION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DEVIATION NOS.

M/OAA-DEV-FAR-20-3c AND M/OAA-DEV-AIDAR-20-3c) (APRIL 2020) 57

H.16 DEFENSE BASE ACT (DBA) INSURANCE 58

H.17 EXECUTIVE ORDER ON TERRORISM FINANCING 59

H.18 ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS SYSTEM 60

H.19 SUBMISSION OF DATASETS TO THE DEVELOPMENT DATA LIBRARY (DDL) (OCTOBER

2014) 61

H.20 AIDAR 752.7036 USAID IMPLEMENTING PARTNER NOTICES (IPN) PORTAL FOR

ACQUISITION (JULY 2014) 62

H.21 AIDAR 752.222-71 NONDISCRIMINATION (JUNE 2012) 63

H.22 AIDAR 752.222-70 USAID DISABILITY POLICY (DECEMBER 2004) 64

H.23 GRANTS UNDER CONTRACTS (GUCS) 64

H.24 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE 66

H.25 AIDAR 752.204-2 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS (FEB 1999) 67

H.26 AIDAR 752.225-70 SOURCE AND NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS. (FEB 2012) 67

H.27 AIDAR 752.228-70 MEDICAL EVACUATION (MEDEVAC) SERVICES (JULY 2007) 68

H.28 AIDAR 752.231-71 SALARY SUPPLEMENTS FOR HOST GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

(MAR 2015) 69

H.29 AIDAR 752.245-70 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY USAID REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

(OCT 2017) 69

H.30 AIDAR 752.247-70 PREFERENCE FOR PRIVATELY OWNED U.S.-FLAG COMMERCIAL

VESSELS. (OCT 1996) 70

H.31 AIDAR 752.7012 PROTECTION OF THE INDIVIDUAL AS A RESEARCH SUBJECT (AUG

1995) 71

H.32 STANDARDS OF CONDUCT - IMPROPER BUSINESS PRACTICES 72

H.33 FOREIGN GOVERNMENT DELEGATIONS TO INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES (JAN

2002) 72

H.34 CONFLICT OF INTEREST 72

H.35 DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION 74

H.36 PROHIBITION AND ASSISTANCE TO DRUG TRAFFICKING 75

H.37 NONEXPENDABLE PROPERTY AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES 75

H.38 GENDER CONSIDERATION 75

H.39 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING FOR CERTAIN COVERED TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT 75

H.40 AIDAR 752.7032 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL APPROVALS AND NOTIFICATION

REQUIREMENTS (APR 2014) 76

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES 77

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES 77

I.1 FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) 77

I.2 AIDAR 752.252-2 AIDAR CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (MAR2015) 81

I.3 FAR 52.204-1 APPROVAL OF CONTRACT (DEC 1989) 83

I.4 FAR 52.243-7 NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES (JAN 2017) 84

I.5 FAR 52.244-2 SUBCONTRACTS (JUN 2020) 85

I.6 FAR 52.219-14 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING (MAR 2020) 88

I.7 FAR 52.247-67 SUBMISSION OF TRANSPORTATION DOCUMENTS FOR AUDIT (FEB 2006)

I.8 FAR 52.222-36 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES (JUN 2020) 89

I.9 FAR 52.222-35 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR VETERANS (JUN 2020) 89

I.10 FAR 52.232-32 PERFORMANCE-BASED PAYMENTS (APR 2012). 90

I.11 FAR 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000) 93

I.12 FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (OCT 2020) 93

I.13 AIDAR 752.229-71 REPORTING OF FOREIGN TAXES (JULY 2007) 102

I.14 AIDAR 731.205-43 TRADE, BUSINESS, TECHNICAL AND PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY

COSTS—USAID CONFERENCE APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS. (M/OAA-DEV-AIDAR-20-

01C) (APR 2020) 103

I.15 AIDAR 731.231-72 CONFERENCE PLANNING AND REQUIRED APPROVAL (APR 2020)

I.16 AIDAR 752.7032 – INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL APPROVAL AND NOTIFICATION

REQUIREMENTS (APR 2014) 106

I.17 AIDAR 752.7101 VOLUNTARY POPULATION PLANNING ACTIVITIES (JUN 2008) 107

I.18 AIDAR 752.245-70 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY—USAID REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

(OCTOBER 2017) 107

PART III – LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS 110

SECTION J – LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 110

PART IV: REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS 111

SECTION K - REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF

OFFERORS 111

K.1 FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) 111

K.2 FAR 52.204-8 ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS (MAR 2020) 111

K.3 FAR 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (OCT 2020) 116

K.4 FAR 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2018) 119

K.5 FAR 52.209-13 VIOLATION OF ARMS CONTROL TREATIES OR AGREEMENTS-

CERTIFICATION (JUL 2020) 120

K.6 FAR 52.230-1 COST ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOTICES AND CERTIFICATIONS

(JUN2020) 122

K.7 FAR 52.230-7 PROPOSAL DISCLOSURE--COST ACCOUNTING PRACTICE CHANGES (APR

2005) 124

K.8 AUTHORIZED NEGOTIATORS 125

K.9 SIGNATURE 125

SECTION L - INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 126

L.1 FAR 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998) 126

L.2 WAIVERS UNDER FAR PART 4.2101 PROHIBITION ON COVERED

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES AND EQUIPMENT

(AUGUST 13, 2020) 126

L.3 FAR 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984) 128

L.4 FAR 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006) 128

L.5 FAR 52.215-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS-COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION (JAN 2017) 128

L.6 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS 132

L.7 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION 133

L.8 OFFEROR’S RESPONSIBILITIES 134

L.9 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL 135

L.10 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE COST/BUSINESS PROPOSAL 139

SECTION M – EVALUATION CRITERIA 147

M.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) 147

M.2 GENERAL INFORMATION 147

M.3 DETERMINATION OF COMPETITIVE RANGE 148

M.4 TECHNICAL EVALUATION CRITERIA 148

M.5 PRICE/COST EVALUATION 151

M.6 SOURCE SELECTION 152

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance and other services as described in detail in Section C, Performance Work Statement (PWS) for the implementation of the

USAID/Ghana Systems Strengthening, entitled (RING II) Activity.

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE AND CONTRACT SERVICES

This is a cost-plus fixed fee completion type contract. For the consideration set forth below, the Contractor must achieve the objectives and deliverables, or outputs described in Section F and in accordance with the performance standards specified in Section C and Section E.

B.3 ESTIMATED COST, FIXED FEE, AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

The estimated cost for the performance of the work required for the five-year period of performance, exclusive of fixed fee, is ${CO to insert at award}. The fixed fee for the five-year period of performance is ${CO to insert at award}. The estimated cost-plus fixed fee for the five-year period of performance is ${CO to insert at award}.

Within the estimated cost-plus fixed fee (if any) specified in the paragraph above, the amount currently obligated and available for reimbursement of allowable costs incurred by the Contractor (and payment of fee, if any) for performance hereunder is ${CO to insert at award} for the period of performance. The Contractor must not exceed the aforesaid obligated amount unless authorized by the Contracting Officer pursuant to the clause of this contract entitled, “Limitation of Funds” (FAR 52.232‐22). See Section I of this contract.

B.4 CONTRACT BUDGET LINE ITEMS

{USAID will insert Tab 2 “Contract Budget” proposed in Attachment J.7 - Budget Template}

Description CLIN 0001 Total Estimate

(US$)

Direct Costs $ $

Grants Under Contract $10,000,000 $10,000,000

Total Direct Costs $ $

Indirect Costs $ $

Fee for Grants Management $ $

Fixed Fee (Excluding Grants Fee) $ $

Total Estimated Cost $ $

B.5 ADVANCE UNDERSTANDING ON CEILING INDIRECT COST RATES AND

FINAL

REIMBURSEMENT FOR INDIRECT COSTS

Ceilings are not applicable to Small Business Offerors or local organizations serving as the prime or a subcontractor.

Pending establishment of revised provisional or final indirect cost rates, allowable indirect costs must be reimbursed on the basis of the following negotiated provisional or predetermined rates and the appropriates bases for prime contractors and their major subcontractors.

(a) Reimbursement for indirect costs shall be at the lower of the negotiated final (or predetermined) rates or the following ceiling rates:

Description Rate Base Period

% 1/ 1/

% 2/ 2/ % 3/ 3/

1/ Base of Application:

Period:

2/ Base of Application:

3/ Base of Application

NOTE: Insert additional indirect rates as needed for all primes and major subcontractors in the above table.

(b) The Government will not be obligated to pay any additional amount should the final indirect cost rates exceed the negotiated ceiling rates. If the final indirect cost rates are less than the negotiated ceiling rates, the negotiated rates will be reduced to conform to the lower rates.

(c) This understanding shall not change any monetary ceiling, obligation, or specific cost allowance or disallowance. Any changes in classifying or allocating indirect costs require the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer.

B.6 COST REIMBURSABLE

(a) Allowable costs will be limited to reasonable, allocable and necessary costs determined in accordance with FAR 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment (AUG 2018), FAR 52.216-

8, Fixed Fee (JUN 2011), if applicable, and AIDAR 752.7003, Documentation for Payment

(NOV 1998).

(b) In addition, the requirements and conditions concerning estimated cost and funding apply as detailed in FAR 52.232-22, Limitation of Funds (APR 1984).

B.7 PAYMENT OF FIXED FEE

(a) Pursuant to FAR 16.306(d), the fixed fee payable under CLIN 0001 and CLIN 0002 will be linked to the conditions and completion of the deliverables and outcomes incorporated in this contract {USAID will incorporate the successful offerors Fixed Fee Schedule as an attachment to the award} and in accordance with the amounts in Sections B.3 and B.4.

(b) Upon receipt of COR concurrence or COR approval (if delegated by the CO to the COR), or approval by the CO, the Contractor must submit an invoice for the amount of the associated fee. Payment of fixed fee will be made upon receipt of a proper invoice and shall be based upon the Fixed-Fee Schedule incorporated into this contract {USAID will incorporate the successful offerors Fixed Fee Schedule as an attachment to the award}.

Specifically, in accordance with 52.216-8, Fixed Fee, the Contracting Officer (CO) will withhold 15% of the total fee or $100,000.00, whichever is less, until the required award conditions under the reference clause are met.

The following exceptions to paying fixed fee in this manner apply:

(a) If the CO determines that this method results in paying a disproportionately higher ratio of fixed fee than the percentage of work that the Contractor completed, then the CO may suspend further payment of any fixed fee until the Contractor has made sufficient progress to justify further payment, up to the agreed percentage.

(b) The clauses entitled “Allowable Cost and Payment” (FAR 52.216 -7) and “Fixed Fee” (FAR 52.216-8) are incorporated into this contract.

(c) In the event of discontinuance of the work in accordance with the clause of the contract entitled FAR 52.249-6 Termination (Cost Reimbursement), the fee must be re-determined by mutual agreement equitably to reflect the reduction in the work actually performed. The amount by which such fee is less than, or exceeds, payments previously made on account of the fee must be paid to, or repaid by the Contractor, as applicable.

[END OF SECTION B]

SECTION C – PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

{CO TO INSERT AT AWARD}

[END OF SECTION C]

SECTION D – BRANDING AND MARKING

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

(a) It is USAID policy that USAID-financed commodities and shipping containers, project construction sites, and other project locations be suitably marked with the USAID emblem, in accordance with ADS 320. Shipping containers must be marked as well with the last five digits of the USAID financing document number. As a general rule, marking is not required for raw materials shipped in bulk (such as coal, grain, etc.) or for semi-finished products which are not packaged.

(b) Specific guidance on marking requirements should be obtained prior to procurement of commodities to be shipped and as early as possible for project construction sites and project locations. This guidance will be provided through the cognizant technical office indicated on the cover page of this contract, or by the Mission Director in the cooperating country to which commodities are being shipped or in which the project site is located.

(c) Authority to waive marking requirements is vested with the Regional Assistant Administrators and with Mission Directors.

(d) A copy of any specific marking instructions or waivers from marking requirements is to be sent to the Contracting Officer; the original should be retained by the Contractor.

D.2 BRANDING AND MARKING POLICY

(a) The Contractor must develop a Branding Implementation Plan and a Marking Plan describing how activity deliverables will be branded. USAID will insert as an attachment to Section J of the award the Contractor’s Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan.

(b) In accordance with ADS 320, USAID requires exclusive branding and marking in USAID direct acquisition from any source of funds. Contractors and subcontractors’ corporate identities or logos must not be used on USAID-funded program materials. Marking is not required on Contractor vehicles, offices, office supplies, or other commodities used solely for administration of the USAID-funded program. Marking is not permitted on any communications that are strictly administrative, rather than programmatic, in nature. USAID’s identity is also prohibited on

Contractor and recipient communications related to award administration, such as hiring/firing of staff or renting office space and/or equipment. The Contractor must comply with the requirements of policy directives and required procedures outlined in USAID Automated Directive System (ADS) 320.3.2“Branding and Marking in USAID Direct Contracting” at http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/320.pdf; and USAID “Graphic Standards Manual and Partner Co-Branding Guide” available at https://www.usaid.gov/branding/gsm, or any successor branding policy.

D.3 BRANDING STRATEGY

The branding strategy for this contract, as specified in USAID ADS 320.2.1 is as follows:

http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/320.pdf%3B https://www.usaid.gov/branding/gsm

Activity Name: RESILIENCE IN NORTHERN GHANA - HEALTH

STRENGTHENING (RING II) Activity

Branding: The Contractor must use full branding and the USAID tagline, “From the American People,” on materials and communications, which may be translated into local languages. Co -branding and no branding will only be considered on a case-by-case basis, as considered appropriate by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and Contracting Officer (CO).

Desired Level of Visibility: USAID’s identity must be prominently displayed on commodities or equipment; in printed, audio, visual or electronic public communications; in studies, reports, publications, web sites, and promotional and informational products; and events.

Organizations to Acknowledge: The branding may acknowledge other organizations deemed as partners of an event or deliverable.

D.4 ANTICIPATED ELEMENTS OF A MARKING PLAN

In accordance with ADS 320.3.2.3, a Marking Plan must be developed by Contractors to enumerate the public communications, commodities, activity materials, and other items that visibly bear or will be marked with the USAID identity. As stated in ADS 320.3.2, USAID’s policy is that programs, projects, activities, public communications, or commodities under contracts or subcontracts exclusively funded by USAID are marked exclusively with the USAID identity. Where applicable, a host country symbol, government ministry logo, or another U.S.

Government logo may be added.

Except for manufacturers’ trademarks on commercial items, the corporate identities or logos of contractors or subcontractors are not permitted on USAID-funded program materials and communications, unless specified in the USAID Graphic Standards Manual or approved in advance by the USAID/West Africa/Ghana Development Outreach Team.

The Marking Plan may include requests for exceptions to marking requirements, to be approved by the CO. ADS Section 320.3.2.4 details what the Marking Plan must address. Section

320.3.2.5 lists the exceptions to Marking Plan requirements.

Markings must be placed on deliverables, such as products, equipment, and inputs; on places where activities are held; on external public communications, studies, reports, publications, and informative and promotional products; and at workshops, conferences, fairs, and any events.

Studies, reports, publications, web sites, and informational and promotional products not authored, reviewed, or edited by USAID must contain a provision substantially as follows, “This study/report/website (specify) is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this (specify) are the sole responsibility of (name of organization) and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.”

D.5 APPROVAL OF CONTRACTOR BRANDING IMPLEMENTATION PLAN AND

MARKING PLAN

The Branding Implementation Plan and the Marking Plan must be approved by the CO, with concurrence from the USAID/Ghana Development Outreach Team and the COR. Upon approval, the Contractor’s Final Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan will be valid for the life of the award, unless rescinded. The Contractor must follow these plans during implementation of this contract and will request and obtain waivers from the CO, when required. Guidance on applying for waivers can be found in USAID Automated Directives System Chapter 320, Branding and Marking.

D.6 SOCIAL MEDIA AND OUTREACH

The Contractor must participate proactively in outreach activities to promote the goals of this Contract and to identify USAID as the funding source in accordance with the branding and marking requirements outlined in the Contractor’s approved Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan. The Contractor must also capture information on the qualitative progress of this program through success stories, case studies, press releases, etc., as part of its overall reporting requirements to USAID.

Social media is often part of an integrated communications campaign. It should serve a programmatic purpose and not be used to promote a program or contractor. The creation o f social media channels should be included and justified in the project’s marking plan and is subject to the approval of the CO, COR, and DOC team.

News releases/media alerts must be coordinated with COR. In general, all releases/alerts are issued by the U.S. Embassy on behalf of USAID, and USAID only submits these to the U.S.

Embassy Public Affairs Office.

[END OF SECTION D]

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this contract. See http://acquisition.gov/far/index.html for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.246-3 INSPECTION OF SUPPLIES - COST-

REIMBURSEMENT

MAY 2001

52.246-5 INSPECTION OF SERVICES - COST-

REIMBURSEMENT

APR 1984

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

USAID inspection and acceptance of services, reports and other required deliverables or outputs must take place in Ghana, or at any other location where the services are performed and reports and deliverables or outputs are produced or submitted.

The Contracting Officer delegated to the COR authority to inspect and accept certain services, reports and required deliverables or outputs as outlined in the COR designation letter and via clauses in the contract.

E.3 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

The COR and the Contracting Officer will jointly conduct evaluation of the Contractor’s overall performance, which will form the basis of the Contractor’s permanent performance record with regards to this contract as required under the FAR 42.15 and AIDAR 742.15.

During the period of performance, the USAID COR will conduct periodic performance reviews to monitor the progress of work and the achievement of required results under this contract. USAID/Ghana expects to conduct an independent mid-term performance evaluation near the end of the second year of the contract and final performance evaluation at the end of the contract. A variety of mechanisms will be used to monitor the progress and success of this award and the Contractor’s performance in achieving agreed results including:

● Periodic and ad hoc meetings with USAID

● Adherence to the work plan

● Review of Contractor’s scheduled reports and deliverables

● Host government official and other counterparts’ feedback http://acquisition.gov/far/index.html

● USAID personnel site visits

● Periodic impact assessments and evaluations

● Regular planning meetings between USAID and the Contractor to finalize annual work plans or identify emerging priorities requiring attention Pause and reflect meetings

● Coordinating committee meetings with USAID, the Contractor, the host government officials, and other stakeholders as agreed

● Timely receipt of and inspection and acceptance of deliverables described in Section F

E.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP)

The progress, success, and impact of the Contractor’s performance under this contract will be monitored and evaluated as a part of the overall activity results. The QASP is a management process with the intent of encouraging maximum performance, efficiency, and cost effectiveness by the Contractor and can be modified at any time by the Government.

The QASP will be used as a Government monitoring process to enforce the inspection and acceptance clauses of the contract. The QASP may require modification and/or updates after selection for award to reflect the Contractor’s known strengths and weaknesses. The QASP is a “living” monitoring process that should be discussed, reviewed, and updated regularly but no less than on an annual basis. It is based on the premise that the Contractor, not the

Government, is responsible for managing and ensuring the quality controls meet the terms of the contract.

The Government reserves the right to modify performance standards and/or metrics during the life of this contract, in order to ensure that the right outcomes are being assessed and that the performance standards are appropriate. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to follow up with the COR to ensure the QASP monitoring process is implemented and updated. The QASP is incorporated as a component of the Activity.

[END OF SECTION E]

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

In accordance with FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in

Section I of this contract, the following contract clauses are hereby incorporated by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. See http://acquisition.gov/far/index.html and https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER – ALTERNATE I APR 1984

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

(a) The period of performance is five (5) years from: {CO to insert at award}

(b) It is the Contractor's responsibility to ensure that the Contracting Officer’s approved adjustments to the original estimated completion date do not result in incurred costs that exceed the ceiling price of this Contract. Under no circumstances will such adjustments authorize the Contractor to be paid any sum in excess of the Contract amount.

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The place of performance is the Republic of Ghana.

F.4 KEY PERSONNEL

The Contractor must furnish the following positions deemed Key Personnel for the performance of this contract. The final number of Key Personnel will be determined by the contractor’s approach, but the Contractor must not exceed five (5) Key Personnel Positions, including the one required position indicated below. The following key personnel are considered as essential for the overall management and success of the program:

{OFFEROR to propose a description of the position, and detail the minimum Education and Experience required for each Key Personnel position - See {L.9}

(a) Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel: (Minimum position requirements for each further Key position will be incorporated upon contract award) http://acquisition.gov/far/index.html https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar

Position Education Requirements Years of Experience Language Ability (per Foreign Service

Institute Absolute Language Proficiency

Ratings)

Chief of Party {OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} {OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} English Level IV

{OFFEROR TO

PROPOSE}

{OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} {OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} English Level IV

{OFFEROR TO

PROPOSE}

{OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} {OFFEROR TO PROPOSE} English Level IV

{OFFEROR TO ADD ADDITIONAL LINES AS NEEDED}

The best candidates will combine strong technical and managerial skills, an understanding of the context, the ability to communicate effectively with a range of persons, facilitation and negotiation skills, adaptive management experience, and commitment to the goals of the activity. USAID encourages the use of Ghanaian staff as Key Personnel.

(b) The personnel specified above are considered essential to the work being performed hereunder. Prior to replacing any of the specified individuals, the Contractor must immediately notify both the Contracting Officer and the USAID COR, preferably 30 days prior to the key personnel’s departure, but at a minimum two (2) weeks in advance and must submit written justification (including proposed replacement or timeline to replace) in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on the activity. The proposed substitute personnel must have at least substantially equal ability and the same qualifications as the applicable Key Personnel specified above.

(c) Failure to provide such Key Personnel as specified above will be considered non-performance by the Contractor, unless this failure is beyond the control, and without the fault or negligence, of the Contractor (e.g., non-acceptance or termination of employment by the individual, illness or death of the individual).

(d) If the Contractor, at any time, is unable to comply with these requirements, the Contractor must simultaneously notify, in writing, the Contracting Officer and the designated COR reasonably in advance of the individual's departure or non-acceptance of employment and must submit written justification and explanation in sufficient detail (including implications for the CPFF Total Contract) to permit evaluation of the impact on the activity.

(e) No replacement of Key Personnel will be made by the Contractor without the written consent of the Contracting Officer, provided that the Contracting Officer may ratify in writing such replacement and such ratification will constitute the consent of the Contracting Officer required by this clause.

(f) The listing of Key Personnel may, with the consent of the contracting parties, be amended from time to time during the course of this Contract, either to add, change, or delete personnel and positions, as appropriate.

F.5 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM

Evaluation of the Contractor’s performance will be conducted in accordance with the performance standards set forth in FAR part 42.15, corresponding Agency procedures, the Contractor’s overall performance toward achievement of objectives in Section C, provision and quality of deliverables in Section F, and the Contractor’s compliance with all other terms and conditions of the contract. Each evaluation will be conducted jointly by the COR and CO and form the basis of the Contractor’s performance record.

F.6 AUTHORIZED WORK WEEK

A five-day workweek is authorized under this Contract. No overtime or premium pay is authorized unless otherwise provided below or approved in advance by the Contracting Officer.

(a) The length of the contractor’s U.S. workday must be in accordance with the Contractor’s established policies and practices and must not be less than eight (8) hours per day and forty

(40) hours per week. (b) The length of the workday for individuals providing/performing services overseas must coincide with the workday for employees of the US Embassy in

Ghana. Unless otherwise specifically authorized in advance and in writing by the CO, the workweek for individuals providing services overseas must be forty (40) hours per week.

(c) Short-Term Technical Assistance (STTA) - A six (6) day workweek is hereby authorized for TCN and international short-term technical assistance, with no premium pay.

(d) On special occasions when there are essential and time-sensitive tasks to be performed that cannot be accomplished during a five (5) day workweek, a six (6) day workweek may be authorized. The Contractor must document these instances and inform the COR with a copy to the Contracting Officer.

F.7 REPORTS, PLANS, AND OTHER DELIVERABLES

In addition to the other required reports and deliverables in this contract, the Contractor must submit the following deliverables as detailed below, and in adherence to the direction provided in Section F.8

A. REPORTS

1.) QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORTS

a. Performance Reporting: The Contractor must prepare and submit to the COR quarterly performance reports that summarize the Contractor’s achievement and progress toward the agreed targets, objectives, and goals outlined in the Annual Work Plan no later than thirty (30) days following the end of each USG fiscal quarter. The report must reflect the structure of the Annual Work Plan and address at least the following points:

The format of the report will be determined jointly with the COR and the Contractor must, at a minimum, include the following information for the reporting period in each report:

• Activities completed under each planned intervention

• Discussion and analysis of opportunities and constraints encountered, highlights of any issues or problems affecting implementation or timing of activities

• Proposed resolutions or corrective actions, including any needed Mission intervention to address issues or problems raised (i.e. any challenges during the implementation period and proposed solutions)

• A Program Management narrative that provides updates on staffing, operations, and implementation constraints, with proposed resolutions and corrective actions.

• Lessons learned during the implementation period and proposals on how to apply the lessons

• Targets and list of activities proposed for the next quarter, noting where they deviate from the approved Annual Work Plan (note that deviations from the approved Annual Work Plan require COR approval)

• Outputs accomplished in comparison to annual targets set in the quarter

• Collaboration and coordination with other relevant USAID and donor activities and other partners within the implementation environment

• Aggregate outputs accomplished and results realized since project inception

• Demonstration of steps taken to analyze the Con tractor’s own progress against desired results and to devise solutions, propose course corrections, and identify whether new stakeholders should be engaged to ensure program success

• Copies of any outreach or press reporting about the activity

• Copies of any outreach or press reporting about the activity during the quarter

• Program Briefs - up to three per quarter - that highlight specific program learning and findings in the form of success stories, data analyses, and other communication products. These products may include photos, graphs, tables and other visual presentation of program information, and be of adequate quality for posting on the Agency’s web and social media sites.

• A one-page activity description status that USAID can post on the Mission’s website and social media sites

• Designation of responsible parties and timeframes for completion of each activity

• At least two success stories per quarter

Generally, the Quarterly Performance Report must be no longer than 30 pages, address the information listed above, and follow the following format:

1. An executive summary.

2. A performance narrative discussing the program implementation to date, including text as well as graphs, charts, photos, etc. to illustrate and analyze the Contractor's performance.

3. An indicator table and narrative summarizing targets and achievements over the quarter and explanations for any significant deviations.

4. Upcoming Events Calendar: A listing of upcoming events, training, and important meetings with public officials, donor agency representatives, or other

USG officers, including estimated dates of events, location, targeted beneficiaries, and short description of the event.

b. Financial Reporting: Within 30 days following the end of each USG fiscal quarter, the

Contractor must prepare and submit quarterly financial allocation summaries (i.e., quarterly financial report and additional accrual reports). The quarterly financial and accrual reports must show the amount of funding and level of effort spent and accrued during the quarter; balance of funds; cumulative spending; subcontract obligations;

change orders, anticipated change orders; and estimates of expenditures for the next quarter. This is submitted as a part of the Quarterly Performance Report. The Contractor must submit financial reports in a format to be determined by the COR after consultation with the Contractor. The report will contain, at a minimum, the following information:

• Total funds committed to date by USAID into the Contract

• Total funds expended by the Contractor to date, including a breakdown in the budget categories contained in the Contractor’s budget, with additional detail to be provided upon request by the COR

• Budget execution, clearly showing actual versus planned expenditures, and a forecast of the expenditures for the remainder of the project

• Pipeline (committed funds minus expended funds)

• Variations from previous estimates (highlighted on any spreadsheets and addressed in a narrative, if significant)

• The budget estimate for the upcoming quarter

• Estimated cost to complete

• Funds and time remaining in the Contract

• Breakdown of expenditures by type of funding

2.) SPECIAL REPORTS

The Contractor will make its best effort to prepare and submit Special Reports as requested by the COR, according to the provided instructions and within the required timelines. The content and length for the special reports will be determined jointly by the COR and the

Contractor.

These reports may include the following:

• Bi-weekly Reports: Brief summaries (1-2 pages, including photos) of major activities or developments over a two-week period. These reports are meant for the COR to update USAID/Ghana senior management and USAID/Washington on the status of the activity and to highlight any notable achievements for reporting purposes.

• Ad Hoc Reports: These reports are meant to enhance the routine reporting or to provide additional data for program management purposes. Examples include:

➢ Special Analysis: The Contractor may be required to submit a short policy analysis or briefing paper, explaining legal or policy developments and their implications on implementation. The Contractor will provide findings of any specific needs assessments or evaluations conducted during the award period, for example, financial, economic, political economy, youth, gender, climate change, or conflict analyses.

➢ Data for adaptive management: In order to support adaptive management for improved results, USAID may request special reporting of key indicators or findings from operational research or pilot activities. Such reporting may require special disaggregation or more frequent reporting of key indicators to identify trends to facilitate program learning and decision-making. The format for these reports will be jointly established by the COR and the Contractor.

3.) ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS

The Contractor must submit an Annual Report, which is not intended to be a compilation nor a

“cut and paste” of Quarterly Reports. The Contractor may include Quarter 4 results and narrative (achievements, challenges, etc.) in the Annual Report provided that they are clearly delineated from the overall annual results. The Annual Report must set out, in text and graphics, progress towards the Contractor’s achievement of expected results for the implementation year. The Annual Report must be no longer than 50 pages, exclusive of the Executive Summary and annexes.

The format for the Annual Report will be jointly established by the COR and the Contractor, but must generally include:

a) An executive summary.

b) A performance narrative, discussing auditable quantitative and qualitative evidence, of progress against indicators and/or impacts achieved to-date. This must include clear identification of which impacts achieved were within the manageable interests of the Contractor and which were likely catalyzed by Contractor-supported initiatives, leading to substantial, sustained achievement of results. This discussion will be instrumental in helping the Mission to complete Annual Reports to USAID/Washington on overall program impacts.

c) An indicator table showing targets and actual achievements. Any deviations from targets by more than 10 percent, either positive or negative, must be clearly explained. This section must include relevant data trend analyses and progress towards performance benchmarks.

d) A separate Quarter 4 section with a performance narrative set against quarterly indicators and targets.

e) Annexes must contain supplementary activity implementation and additional detail that is not otherwise covered in the performance narrative.

Annex. The Contractor must include the following as an Annex to the Annual Progress Report:

Annual Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Report (EMMR)s: The Contractor must report on environmental compliance as one portion of routine activity implementation performance reporting through the use of the EMMR. It must include a summary of progress on climate risk management, including any issues that have been identified and how they have been addressed. The Contractor is not required to address low climate risks. The Contractor must consult USAID CRM resources, such as the CRM of the GFSP and USAID Climate Risk Screening and Management Tool and Climate Risk Profiles, available on Climate links.

4.) FINAL REPORTS

The Contractor must submit a Final Report that summarizes and analyzes, in text and graphics, the Contractor’s accomplishments through the activities executed under the contract. The Final Report must discuss all activities and achievements of the Contract Performance Objectives from the start of the contract through completion of the corresponding performance period.

The Final Report must contain an index of all reports and information products produced under this contract. This report must contain a summary fiscal report that describes by line item the amounts expended and how the contract funds were used in relation to contract accomplishments.

The format for the Final Report will be jointly established by the COR and the Contractor but must address the following, at a minimum:

a) The final status of progress against benchmarks, tangible results, and recommendations regarding unfinished work and/or program continuation and direction, including a narrative about any final results with a 10 percent deviation from the target.

b) A discussion of lessons learned, and problems encountered.

B. PLANS

1.) MOBILIZATION PLAN

The Contractor must submit a mobilization plan that describes a realistic timeframe and process for program startup given the country context. The Contractor must be fully mobilized and operational with essential personnel and offices within 90 days of contract award. The Contractor must identify activities that are high priority and can begin while the Work Plan is being developed. Such activities may commence prior to Work Plan approval subject to prior

COR approval.

2.) ANNUAL WORK PLAN

a) Participants in Annual Work Plan Development. The Contractor must develop the Annual Work Plan in consultation with the COR. The Contractor may include other relevant partners, including key interagency partners, host government counterparts, and other development stakeholders, as appropriate. Modifications that respond to changed conditions may be made;

however, major modifications to each Annual Work Plan are subject to the approval of the

COR.

b) Content of Annual Work Plan (AWP). At a minimum, the AWP must include the following, but may include additional items at the request of the COR:

• Clear and concise language identifying the specific strategy and package of activities to be implemented for each of the targeted beneficiary levels;

• A summary of the progress to date on the indicators and targets in the AMELP and the projected evolution over the next year of implementation;

• A clear and concise rationale for deviation or modification of sites and activities from those originally proposed or selected in prior Work Plans;

• A description of activities and corresponding levels of effort across the PWS objectives; and

• In the first AWP, a Life of Activity (LoA) Strategic Plan that is based on the activity results chain that details the causal logic of the activity’s theory of change. It must identify the program’s key strategic approaches, interim results, and timelines over the LoA. The approved LoA Strategic Plan and theory-based results chain will inform the development of the subsequent AWPs.

The format of the AWP will be established by the COR and the Contractor. Use of a work breakdown structure / GANTT chart will be required to clearly view individual tasks, task durations, the sequencing and relationships of tasks, and required resources.

c) Flexibility, Adaptive Management, and Co-Creation. The Contractor must demonstrate flexibility and an ability to respond to immediate needs as well as adapt to uncertainties that may arise. As such, the AWP is a flexible document, and in coordination with the COR, may be adjusted during the year in order to allow the Contractor and USAID to pause and reflect and then proceed after accounting for challenges and opportunities that arise during implementation. As appropriate, the Contractor may include co-creation in developing approaches outlined in the work plan to address the objectives of this contract.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the establishment of COVID 19 prevention and safety protocols. These include social distancing and lockdowns that have led to a non-traditional operating environment. The Contractor response must reflect operating in this environment and include in the work plan measures to address and mitigate expected challenges.

d) Annexes. The Contractor must include as an Annex to Annual Work Plans the following:

● Gender Analysis and Gender Implementation Strategy The Contractor will submit a Gender

Analysis and Gender Implementation Strategy, with annual updates included in the annual Work Plan submission. The Contractor must develop a strategy to address gendered constraints and biases that limit access to economic opportunities, including, but not limited to, barriers to accessing finance, forging market linkages, and accessing business advisory services. The

Contractor will implement this strategy to address these biases, documenting best practices.

The Gender Implementation Strategy will also carefully monitor activity implementation to ensure that females and males benefit appropriately from contract activities.

● Environmental…