ATTACHMENT 1 - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.pdf

ATTACHMENT 1 - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

QUESTION 1: Please confirm that the participation of local organizations as sub-recipients of non-local prime applicants should be on a non-exclusive basis to facilitate their maximum exposure to USAID funding.

ANSWER to QUESTION 1: Yes. The participation of local organizations as sub-recipients of non-local prime applicants can be on a non-exclusive basis.

QUESTION 2: Please share with applicants the final evaluation report of the USAID-funded "Communication for Improved Health Outcomes" Activity in Mozambique. It is the most recent USAID-funded program that relates to the solicitation's Intermediate Result #1.

ANSWER to QUESTION 2: The Communication for Improved Health Outcomes is attached to this amendment as ATTACHMENT 4 “Communication for Improved Health Outcomes, CIHO/RUMOS.”

QUESTION 3: It is clear from the solicitation that applicants can choose the Intermediate Result(s) to focus on their concept notes. Can applicants choose only some of the components of their selected Intermediate Result (s)?

ANSWER to QUESTION 3: It is USAID’s intent to award a comprehensive, integrated MNCHI+N activity/ies. Concept notes must respond to one or more functional Result areas, in as comprehensive a way as possible to clearly explain a sound technical approach that will lead to meaningful results linked to one or more of the areas of interest and the objective of this APS in an efficient and effective way: improving MNCHI+N via an integrated and holistic approach promoting healthy behaviors and use of quality health services, through: 1) increased adoption of healthy behaviors,

2) improved access to health services, 3) improved provision of quality services, and 4) strengthened health systems.

If the concept note is focused on a particular technical element area, expertise or specific proposal, and addresses one or more Result areas, the concept must clearly articulate how the organization will partner with other organizations to cover all areas of maternal, newborn, child health, immunization, and nutrition.

QUESTION 4: Can applicants choose only part of the geographical localities included in the solicitation?

ANSWER to QUESTION 4: Applicants must detail how full coverage of Nampula and Zambezia provinces, plus proposed select coverage of key districts in Niassa and/or Tete provinces will be achieved, outlining where their organization can provide coverage and where they would rely on partners to support (if relevant). Some effort must also be reserved for central level support.

QUESTION 5: We would like to know more about the timeline for proposal submission. Also, knowing that Cabo Delgado is not covered, could we apply as consortia with other organizations that are based in Cabo Delgado?

ANSWER to QUESTION 5:

● The due date for concept paper submission is extended to October 31, 2023.

● Organizations based outside of the proposed geographic scope, can be part of consortia or apply independently, provided that they can implement activities in the proposed geographical locations of full coverage of Nampula and Zambezia provinces, plus proposed select coverage of key districts in Niassa and/or Tete provinces and including some central-level support.

QUESTION 6: Kindly share the Transform Nutrition mid-term evaluation and Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis documents that are mentioned in the APS, as we are not able to access them.

ANSWER 6 to QUESTION 6: The Transform Nutrition mid-term evaluation is not a public document. Therefore, USAID will not share it. The Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis is attached to this amendment as ATTACHMENT 3 - “Mozambique Maternal/Child Health and Nutrition Gender Assessment.”

QUESTION 7: Given our experience and the importance of government as a partner, can agreements with government entities count toward the 50% local partner requirement? If so, how should applicants quantify government entities as local partners towards the 50% (district level, provincial level, MISAU)?

ANSWER to QUESTION 7: USAID agrees that the government is an essential partner. It is anticipated that concept notes include clear language about how partners will work with government entities in a meaningful way. To clarify, the language regarding 50% local partner requirement is referring to consortium members that will receive sub-awards and funding to carry out their specified streams of work. Any proposed activity transition directly to government entities would need to interlock with plans under current G2G assistance for that level/province of the health system. Additionally, please review language on page 20 of the APS , which states that sub-awards to the government require special justification per USAID policy at ADS 303.3.21.

QUESTION 8: Considering the huge historical needs for MNCH services in Cabo Delgado, aggravated in the districts most affected by armed attacks where IDPs are returning, what is USAID’s geographically focused vision for these locations?

ANSWER to QUESTION 8: USAID agrees that there is great need in Cabo Delgado; however, these needs reach far beyond the health system and require a comprehensive approach to meet the nexus of humanitarian assistance and development. USAID/Mozambique is actively considering how best to meet this need at this point in time. This APS was designed to respond to development, permissive operating environment contexts and will remain with that focus.

QUESTION 9: USAID usually prohibits that its awards be used to increase the compensation of government officials. Is this restriction applicable to this solicitation?

ANSWER to QUESTION 9: Yes. This restriction is applicable to this solicitation.

QUESTION 10: The APS states that “the proposed geographic areas for this Activity are: coverage of districts in Nampula and Zambezia provinces, plus proposed selected coverage of key districts in Niassa and/or Tete provinces (i.e districts with significant unmet need and opportunity). Are there defined criteria for “significant unmet needs?”

ANSWER to QUESTION 10: Applicants should be prepared to justify the initial selection of districts in Niassa or Tete based on epidemiological data analysis and review of programmatic data available. Applicants should also take into consideration the population size and other contextual factors, including consultations with the provincial governments. As stated in the APS, finalization of district selection will only occur after the award is made. “Prior to implementation of the proposed project, a thorough district-by-district mapping of needs, gaps, opportunities, existing partners/ projects, among other factors, is expected. A decision on provinces and districts selected for implementation will occur at the work planning phase after an award is made, with discussions on district and provinces selected occurring throughout the design process and co-creation event (Page-116).”

QUESTION 11: Could you please share additional details of the G2G agreements in place, period of performance, technical areas by geography, expected results, and amount so that we may coordinate more effectively?

ANSWER to QUESTION 11: USAID/Mozambique is providing the table below with information on the active G2Gs for the health sector. Applicants are expected to liaise with government entities to discuss additional details and potential for coordination.

Government Entity Years Technical Areas

DPS/SPS Tete 2020-2025 HIV & TB

DPS/SPS Niassa 2021-2026 HIV, MCH, FP

DPS/SPS Sofala 2021-2026 HIV

DPS/SPS Zambezia 2022-2027 Malaria (expanding to MCH,FP, Nutrition, TB in 2024)

DPS/SPS Nampula 2023-2027 Malaria, MCH. FP, Nutrition, TB

DPS/SPS Manica 2023-2027 HIV

CMAM 2021-2026 HIV & HSS

CNCS 2022-2027 HIV

QUESTION 12: The APS states repeatedly that several rounds will be launched from this call and this is Round 1.

Can USAID explain what is being referred to as “rounds,” if it’s the process of the co-creation phase and/or implementation phases?

ANSWER to QUESTION 12: Annual Program Statements are an instrument that acts like an umbrella for potential amounts of funding that become available and fit within the stated purpose of the APS. That being said, as stated on page 27 (revised APS), multiple Rounds CAN be issued, but they are not mandatory or guaranteed. For this APS, Round 1, we have a confirmed amount of up to $92 million. We do not plan to issue additional Rounds unless funding becomes available within the five-year APS period. APS’ function as following:

-APS is issued, including Round 1 guidance calling for the submission of concept notes (5 pages).

-Concept note applicants that “pass” the criteria outlined in Section D will be invited to participate in the co-creation event.

-The co-creation event will take place with invited parties.

-Applicants that pass the concept note phase and participate in the co-creation event will receive information about the full application process and evaluation criteria.

QUESTION 13: Page 35 of the APS states: “If an organization is named as a sub-partner on a concept paper submitted by a prime on behalf of an already proposed consortium, the sub-partner is not required to submit its own stand-alone concept paper; however, it can submit a solo concept paper if it wants to be considered independent of the consortium as well (i.e. to be considered for both a consortium or prime individual organization).

ANSWER to QUESTION 13: Please see amended language in the APS Amendment 01. As stated on page 35 of the revised APS: A single organization (whether local or international) may not submit more than three concept papers, in total, one as an individual organization and one (or two) as a part of a consortium; or 2) three concept papers submitted as part of three different consortia). If an organization submits more than three concept papers, only the first three received will be evaluated.

QUESTION 14: Could USAID please confirm that the budget related files may be submitted in two pages, i.e. on page-45, the Budget Template provided by USAID in Annex II (which is to be submitted in Excel) and the Budget Notes (summary budget narrative). We ask because on page-36 BUDGET SUMMARY, it is noted not to exceed two pages; however, on page-45 a 1 page maximum is indicated under A. Proposed Estimated Cost and Cost Breakdown, where it also states, “This Section should include a proposed budget and a summary budget narrative justifying proposed expenses.”

ANSWER to QUESTION 14: Applicants should submit one page illustrating the summary budget (in Microsoft Excel), and another page with the budget notes narrative. There is a maximum of two pages for the summary budget and the budget narrative (Amendment 01 – Revised APS, page-45).

QUESTION 15: Given the APS contracting mechanism, does USAID intend to issue multiple awards with varying technical focuses under Round 1 totaling $92 million as a whole or issue one award for $92 million? Also, does USAID intend to use subsequent rounds under this APS with funding in addition to the $92 million listed under Round 1?

ANSWER to QUESTION 15: As stated in the APS, applicants can apply to one or more of the Results. There is potential for issuance of multiple awards under the Round 1 (total $92 million) depending on the applications/approaches posed in the final application phase. USAID may issue more than one Round at a future date, depending on funding availability and technical priorities.

QUESTION 16: According to the APS, “The proposed Activity supports USAID’s goal of increasing engagement with local organizations by encouraging local organizations who can respond to at least one of the Results that apply to this APS” (Page 18). The question is, is there a limit to the number of organizations to be considered?

ANSWER to QUESTION 16: There is no upper limit. As noted on page 18 of the revised APS, at least 50% of the number of partners within any consortium (proposed) must be local organizations.

QUESTION 17: Will organizations/consortia whose concept notes are invited to the co-creation seminar be automatically selected to submit proposals?

ANSWER to QUESTION 17: Concepts that receive a “pass” rating on the concept note review phase, will be eligible to participate in the co-creation event and apply for the full application. See updated language highlighted in the revised APS Amendment 01 for clarity (Page-38).

QUESTION 18: Can you submit a concept note based on one of the technical areas of the APS, not seeking to be a prime but rather an offer of technical expertise?

ANSWER to QUESTION 18: Applications should be responsive to at least one of the Results, whether as a prime or consortium member/ sub-partner, in order to potentially “pass” the concept note review. Further information is found on pages 37-39 in the revised APS.

Also please see the response to Question #3.

QUESTION 19: Can the National Gynecologist/Obstetrician Association apply to this APS? Is there any impediment due to the Mexico City Policy?

ANSWER to QUESTION 19: Yes. The Associação Nacional de Ginecologistas/Obstetras can apply to this solicitation.

The so-called “Mexico City Policy” was revoked in January 2021. All organizations who receive funding from the U.S.

Government are subject to Family Planning Legislative and Policy Requirements as well as Legislative Restrictions on using U.S. foreign assistance funding for abortion-related activities.

QUESTION 20: Page-35 of the APS states that “Additionally, USAID may make an award based on their initial concept papers received, without scheduling a co-creation workshop.” Does this statement mean that an award can be made based exclusively on the initial concept paper and no full application would be needed?

ANSWER to QUESTION 20: Correct. USAID reserves the right to make a selection based on the concept note if a concept fully addresses all of the criteria. However, this is not the intent. The USAID/Mozambique team fully intends to hold a co-creation event as outlined in the document and issue a call for comprehensive, full applications following the co-creation event.

QUESTION 21: There is reference to DUNS Number instead of UEI Number, is this an error?

ANSWER to QUESTION 21: Reference to DUNS number is removed from the solicitation. Please refer to the revised APS for UEI requirement.

QUESTION 22: On page-37, the APS states: “the purpose of this review is to ensure that prospective partners bring appropriate capabilities, experiences, and potential contributions to the co-creation process and ultimately to the implementation of activities supporting the goal, purpose and results of this APS. What comes first between the co-creation process and final selection of the concept paper? Can an applicant participate in the co-creation before the final selection is done, and be informed?

ANSWER to QUESTION 22: Please see the response to Question 12.

QUESTION 23: On page-37, the APS states: “Not all applicants that receive a “pass” status will be invited to the co-creation event. Participation is subject to USAID selection. After the event, USAID may request for submission of a full application.” Is it possible that an applicant’s concept can score a “pass” and not be invited to submit a full application?

ANSWER to QUESTION 23: Please note the language on co-creation participation has been updated in the APS Amendment 01 (Page 37-39).

QUESTION 24: USAID has stated that the 30%-50% funding allocation to local organizations refers to the “consortium members.” Will subgrants to local NGOs - to be selected post-award-also be included as part of the 30%-50% funding to local organizations?

ANSWER to QUESTION 24: Yes. Local partner consortia members can be proposed at the concept note phase, at the full application phase, or post-award.

QUESTION 25: On page-27, the APS indicates that “Concept notes can respond to all technical elements OR specific technical elements if an organization has particular expertise or proposal in one area (i.e capacity strengthening, immunization, etc.).” Can you confirm if “technical elements” refer to health areas covered under the APS MNCH, Nutrition, Immunization) or intermediate results, which are functionally focused?

ANSWER to QUESTION 25: It is USAID’s intent to award a comprehensive, integrated MNCHI+N activity/ies. Concept notes must respond to one or more Result areas, clearly explaining a sound technical approach that will lead to meaningful results linked to one or more of the areas of interest and the objective of this APS in an efficient and effective way: improving MNCHI+N via an integrated and holistic approach promoting healthy behaviors and use of quality health services, through: 1) increased adoption of healthy behaviors, 2) improved access to health services, 3) improved provision of quality services, and 4) strengthened health systems. At the concept note phase, it is possible to respond to one or more Results focusing on the organization’s particular technical element expertise. Should the concept paper “pass”, there will be opportunities to explore partnerships at the co-creation phase.

Also please see the response to Question #3.

QUESTION 26: Could USAID share a breakdown of available funding by technical area?

ANSWER to QUESTION 26: The two primary technical area element funding streams are MCH and Nutrition Global Health Program funds. A precise breakdown of available funding for the full award period of performance cannot be known, as this information is subject to the availability of funding. For year 1, the approximate percentage breakdown is 60% MCH funding (to cover the areas of maternal, newborn, child health and immunization), 30% Nutrition funding, and 10% Other (potentially including Early Childhood Development).

QUESTION 27: Given the possibility for USAID to issue one or multiple awards, could you clarify whether USAID anticipates connecting concept teams for single technical areas with teams proposing comprehensive designs during the co-creation phase?

ANSWER to QUESTION 27: Yes. USAID/Mozambique expects that during the co-creation event, there will be ample time to discuss and make potential connections.

QUESTION 28: The co-creation (phase 2) states: after the concept papers are evaluated, all successful applicants will be invited to continue the co-creation and collaboration process to identify and develop the activities, and identify and incorporate additional partners. Is it possible for a local organization to potentially join an additional consortium during this co-creation phase? (as a sub-partner, other than those it was part of during the concept note phase)?

ANSWER to QUESTION 28: Whether the organization submits a solo concept note or is listed as a consortium member, if the organization is listed in the concept note and that concept paper received a “pass” then it would be possible to include the organization in the co-creation at which they can explore additional and/or different partnerships prior to submission of the full application.

QUESTION 29: Based on page-32, should contractors be non-profit organizations in order to participate?

ANSWER to QUESTION 29: This is a full and open APS; therefore, for-profit and nonprofit organizations are eligible to submit concept papers.

QUESTION 30: Is there a minimum award size USAID will consider? Do proposals have over XYZ amount to be considered?

ANSWER to QUESTION 30: No. There is no minimum requirement.

QUESTION 31: Please consider an extension of the submission deadline as important information that applicants need to prepare responsive concept notes.

ANSWER to QUESTION 31: The deadline for submission of concept notes has been extended from September 29, 2023, to October 31, 2023.

QUESTION 32: Given the APS contracting mechanism, does USAID intend to issue multiple awards with varying technical focuses under Round 1 totaling 92 million as a whole or issue one award for $92 million listed under Round 1?

ANSWER to QUESTION 32: USAID will consider proposals under Round 1 which is up to $92 million in total. This could result in one or more awards. USAID has no knowledge of additional funding that would trigger additional Rounds at this time.

QUESTION 33: In the estimate of funds available for, is there an indication on total estimated funds per technical area?

ANSWER to QUESTION 33: See answer to question 26.

QUESTION 34: In Annex I, there is no page allocation included for “G. Cooperation.” The page allocations for the remaining sections add up to 5 pages. Would USAID consider including an additional ½ page or 1 page to address this section?

ANSWER to QUESTION 34: The Concept Introduction section can be considered to be approximately ¾ page and the Cooperation section is approximately ¼ of a page. The relative size of each section is approximate, so long as the overall concept paper does not exceed five pages. See revised APS pages 42-44 for more information.

QUESTION 35: In the estimate of funds available, is there an indication on total estimated funds per technical area?

ANSWER to QUESTION 35: Please see the answer to Question 26.

QUESTION 36: We work with communities affected by leprosy, neglected tropical diseases and disabilities. They have severe limitations in accessing the health system in Zambezia and Cabo Delgado. Due to leprosy and disability stigma and low prioritization by the GRM, they also have significant maternal health, family planning, and newborn and child health problems. Would USAID be open to a concept note that, besides fulfilling the technical criteria, also integrates aspects of leprosy treatment, care and disability prevention?

ANSWER to QUESTION 36: This APS is committed to serving women’s and children’s MNCHI+N health needs, ensuring equitable access to resources and services provided and taking into consideration potential barriers that marginalized, vulnerable, disabled and/or stigmatized persons may face. Concept papers must focus on responding to one or more MNCH, Immunization and Nutrition Result areas as outlined in the APS. Programming to combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) is a separate technical area and covered through NTD-specific funding.

QUESTION 37: On page-17 of the APS, a Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis is mentioned; however, the link is not accessible. Can an accessible link to the Gender Analysis Report be shared?

ANSWER to QUESTION 37: The Gender and Inclusive Development is attached as ATTACHMENT 3 - “Mozambique Maternal/Child Health and Nutrition Gender Assessment” of this APS Amendment 01.

QUESTION 38: The APS states, on page-27: “Note that local organizations can submit as part of a consortium or individually. If they would like to be considered as a prime partner, they need to submit an individual application.” Does this mean that local organizations can only be prime in individual applications and not as the lead partner in a consortium?

ANSWER to QUESTION 38: Local organizations can be primes in an individual application or as a lead partner in a proposed consortium, or as a consortium/sub-partner. The language on page 27 states that if an applicant wants to be considered as a prime, then they need to submit a concept note (as an individual or as the lead of a consortium).

Applicants that only submit as a non-lead consortium member will not be considered for prime partnership.

QUESTION 39: Please can you confirm that Mozambican/local organizations may only be part of a maximum 2 concept notes (for example, one as prime and one as sub-grantee, or two as sub-grantee)?

ANSWER to QUESTION 39: Please see the response to Question 13.

QUESTION 40: Will only organizations that submit concept notes be invited to participate in the co-creation workshop, or also the other consortium members?

ANSWER to QUESTION 40: One or more representative members from each concept paper that “passes” will be invited to the co-creation workshop. The selected individual(s) /organization who represent the concept paper may come from the proposed prime organization or from a proposed consortium member.

QUESTION 41: For concept notes that only address one IR, must they respond to the whole scope of the IR, or can they respond to a part of it?

ANSWER to QUESTION 41: Please see the response to Question 3.

QUESTION 42: In case a local organization is included in an INGO-led consortium, but also decides to go “solo“ with their own submission of a Concept Paper, would USAID prefer that the local NGO applicant focus on its own capacity and technical approach for one of more Results, or would USAID prefer the Applicant include other sub partners to complement the Applicant's Capacity?

ANSWER to QUESTION 42: USAID has no preference; both approaches have merit so long as the application responds to one or more Result areas with a sound technical approach that will lead to meaningful results linked to the objectives of this APS.

Also please see the response to Question #3.

QUESTION 43: Will USAID allow an Applicant to apply to implement one Result and also elements of a second Result?

ANSWER to QUESTION 43: At the concept paper phase, yes, an applicant may respond to one or more Result areas (page-27).

Also please see the response to Question #3.

QUESTION 44: Does USAID prefer that an Applicant submit a Concept Paper covering ALL priority provinces included in the APS, or can an Applicant apply for one or more provinces?

ANSWER to QUESTION 44: Applicants are welcome to propose any configuration of geographical coverage. It is important to note that USAID anticipates full coverage of Zambezia and Nampula provinces as well as proposals for coverage of additional select districts in Niassa and/or Tete. Therefore, if the applicant is only covering one province, they should outline plans for how the other geographical areas will be covered (i.e. by other partners). This description can be tentative/theoretical at the concept paper stage.

Also please see the response to Question #4.

QUESTION 45: In the Concept Paper template provided in the APS, what is the suggested page limit for Section G:

Cooperation?

ANSWER to QUESTION 45: See response to Question 34.

QUESTION 46: Should the Funding Opportunity number and DUNS number be included on the cover page, as instructed on page 36 of the APS but excluded in the instructions on page 42?

ANSWER to QUESTION 46: Yes. Please include the Funding Opportunity Number and UEI on the cover page.

QUESTION 47: Can USAID please grant access to the Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis document referenced on page 17 of the APS?

ANSWER to QUESTION 47: Yes, the Gender and Inclusive Development is shared as ATTACHMENT 3 - “Mozambique Maternal/Child Health and Nutrition Gender Assessment” in Amendment 01 of this APS.

QUESTION 48: Given that it is “essential that [the] interventions are aligned with activities outlined in relevant central and provincial level G2G agreements and other USAID awards/contracts,” could USAID please provide more detailed information regarding the timeline, objectives, and intended activities of the G2G agreements, beyond the summary that is provided on page 20?

ANSWER to QUESTION 48: Please see response to Question 11.

QUESTION 49: Can USAID confirm that an organization may submit two concept papers, one as a prime applicant on behalf of a consortium and one solo concept paper to be considered for inclusion in the co-creation process?

ANSWER to QUESTION 49: Please see response to Question 13.

QUESTION 50: Can USAID confirm that the budget submission includes a summary budget (not to exceed 2 pages) as a Microsoft Excel file and, separately, a budget notes narrative (not to exceed 1 page) as a Microsoft Word document?

ANSWER to QUESTION 50: Please see response to Question 14.

QUESTION 51: Please confirm that applicants should submit a summary budget (not to exceed 2 pages) as an attachment to the concept note, and that none of the budget documents count against the 5-page concept note limit.

ANSWER to QUESTION 51: Please see response to Question 14.

QUESTION 52: Should offerors include a separate line item in the summary budget to delineate the Rapid Response Funds described in Section A.7, page 25?

ANSWER to QUESTION 52: Yes, please include a separate line item of $200,000 for the Rapid Response Fund. See update on page 45 of the APS Amendment 1.

QUESTION 53: Unlike the other sections, Section G. Cooperation does not include a page length expectation.

Should an applicant follow the APS guidance, there would be insufficient space to address Section G. Could USAID please review and provide guidance?

ANSWER to QUESTION 53: Please see response to Question 34.

QUESTION 54: On page 19 there is a mention of $1.75 million for a “parallel capacity strengthening” activity. If an applicant incorporates this activity into its design, would these costs be additional funds on top of the $92 million ceiling?

ANSWER to QUESTION 54: No, the total estimated amount for the one or more activity/ies resulting from this APS is up to $92 million. For additional clarification, this language regarding a parallel capacity strengthening is only for optional consideration and is not required. If including parallel capacity strengthening support within the concept, please note that USAID would not anticipate budget allocations for this beyond $1.75 million at most.

QUESTION 55: On page 10, the APS states that Concept Papers which generally satisfy the merit review criteria will receive a “pass” status and that not all applicants receiving a “pass” status will be invited to the co-creation.

Can USAID clarify this statement or provide additional insights regarding the invitation criteria for the co-creation that USAID/Mozambique intends to use?

ANSWER to QUESTION 55: Please refer to response to Question 17.

QUESTION 56: On page 10, the APS states that it “includes an integrated set of activities to comprehensively support the adoption of healthy behaviors and norms and promote quality service delivery, but USAID/Mozambique expects dedicated focus to each element - immunization, maternal, newborn, child health and nutrition”. Can USAID clarify what structure this will take? Will the integrated and dedicated sets of activities fall under the same award, or is there an intention to issue separate awards for different sets of activities?

ANSWER to QUESTION 56: USAID expects dedicated focus to each technical element area within a structure of one or more awards that promotes integration, comprehensive, quality and patient-centered care for women and children’s health and nutrition. USAID is open to the approach this will take and is therefore utilizing the APS structure to allow for greater co-creation and flexibility. This means that applicants are encouraged to develop strong concept papers for consideration/discussion at the co-creation event (should they “pass” the initial review). It is anticipated that the co-creation event will allow space for potential partners to shape the best configuration of activities that meet the needs and desired results. After these conversations, applicants will receive additional guidance from USAID on what should be included in the full application.

ANSWER to QUESTION 57: On page 27, the APS indicates that “Concept notes can respond to all technical elements OR specific technical elements if an organization has particular expertise or proposal in one area (i.e., capacity strengthening, immunization, etc.).” Can you confirm whether “technical elements” refer to health areas covered under the APS (MNCH, nutrition, immunization) or intermediate results, which are functionally focused?

Similarly, on page 37, the APS states, “The proposed interventions demonstrate a sound technical approach that will lead to meaningful results linked to one or more of the areas of interest and the objective of this APS efficiently and effectively: improving MNCHI+N via an integrated and holistic approach promoting healthy behaviors and use of quality health services, through: 1) increased adoption of healthy behaviors, 2) improved access to health services, 3) improved provision of quality services, and 4) strengthened health systems.” It is unclear what is meant by “one or more areas of interest and the objective of this APS” seeing as the full scope of the APS is included after the colon.

ANSWER to QUESTION 57: Please see the response to Question 3.

QUESTION 58: On page 27 the APS indicates that “the anticipated start date for a possible award(s) will be specified in each Round,” but this has not been included in the APS. Can USAID confirm what the anticipated start date is for awards that will be made under this initial round of submissions?

ANSWER to QUESTION 58: The anticipated start date for an award under this first round of an APS will be negotiated and upon the Agreement Officer’s signing of the award. However, the goal is to have an award in place by the third year of calendar year 2024.

QUESTION 59: Can USAID please provide anticipated years of experience and educational background that will be required for each of the key personnel positions mentioned on page 28 of the APS?

ANSWER to QUESTION 59: Specifications for all Key Personnel positions will be specified at the time of issuance of the full application instructions to those organizations that “pass” the initial concept note review.

QUESTION 60: Can you please confirm that concept papers submitted on or before the September 29th deadline in response to the APS will be considered Round 1? On page 34, the APS requires applicants to include the round number in the subject line of their communications, but the round number for the September 29 submission is not clearly specified elsewhere in the APS.

ANSWER to QUESTION 60: Yes. The Round 1 submission deadline has been extended to October 31, 2023.

QUESTION 61: Can USAID please clarify the following information provided on page 35 of the APS If an organization is named as a sub-partner on a concept paper submitted by a prime on behalf of an already proposed consortium, the sub-partner is not required to submit its own stand-alone concept paper; however, it can submit a solo concept paper if it wants to be considered independent of the consortium as well (i.e. to be considered for both a consortium or prime individual organization). Please note that a single organization may not submit more than two concept papers, in total, one as an individual organization and one as a part of a consortium; or 2) two concept papers submitted as part of two different consortiums). Does this apply to and restrict local organizations to only 2 submissions irrespective of partnering non-exclusively?

ANSWER to QUESTION 61: All organizations are subject to this requirement, not only local partners. Please see response to Question 13 for more information.

QUESTION 62: On pages 37 and 42, USAID indicates that it will not accept concept papers longer than 5 pages in length (excluding a cover page). However, on pages 43 and 44, USAID indicates suggested page limits for sub-sections of the concept paper that together total more than 5 pages. Would USAID please consider increasing the page limit for concept papers to allow applicants the ability to respond to concept paper requirements with sufficient detail?

ANSWER to QUESTION 62: Please see response to Question 34.

QUESTION 63: Can USAID confirm the page limit for Technical Criterion G - Cooperation: Explain how you will cooperate with other organizations, projects, stakeholders, and government counterparts on page 43?

ANSWER to QUESTION 63: Please see response to Question 34.

QUESTION 64: On page 42, USAID indicates that budget files must be submitted in Excel format. However, seeing as only a summary budget table is requested at the concept paper stage, can you please confirm whether USAID would accept this completed table within the overall Word or PDF concept paper and submission?

ANSWER to QUESTION 64: Budget files must be submitted in Microsoft Excel format with visible formulas. Please see response to Question 14 for more information.

QUESTION 65: Would USAID consider allowing a list of abbreviations and bibliography in addition to requested information, and not included in the 5-page limit?

ANSWER to QUESTION 65: 10-point font can be used for list of abbreviations, acronyms and bibliography and will not count towards the 5-page limit.

QUESTION 66: On page 43, Annex 1 of the APS requests applicants to “Explain how the proposed project supports or relates to the Objective to support MNCHI+N.” Can USAID clarify their Objective to support MNCHI+N? Is it the CDCS DO1: “Healthier and better educated Mozambicans, especially the young and vulnerable.” Or is USAID referring to the APS Goal: “Improve maternal, newborn, and child health, -including increased routine immunization and reduced malnutrition - to decrease deaths from preventable causes and help women, newborns and children thrive in central and northern Mozambique (Nampula, Zambezia, Niassa and/or Tete -noting that additional/ alternative geographies may be explored throughout the life of the Activity)”?

ANSWER to QUESTION 66: The Objective to support MNCHI+N is the APS goal (page 9 of the APS) to improve maternal, newborn, and child health, including to increase routine immunization and reduce malnutrition, such that deaths from preventable causes are reduced and women, newborns and children thrive in central and northern Mozambique.

QUESTION 67: Please confirm that the summary budget and budget notes are not included in the 5-page concept paper limit. Please also confirm that the 1 page maximum indicated for Proposed Estimated Cost and Cost Breakdown on page 45 refers only to the page limit for the budget notes – e.g., the summary budget is not included in the 1-page limit.

ANSWER to QUESTION 67: The summary budget and budget notes are not included in the 5-page concept paper limit. Also, please see response to Question 14.

QUESTION 68: Does USAID have an anticipated timeline for when co-creation will take place, or what the expected turnaround time will be for feedback on concept papers and invitations to co-creation?

ANSWER to QUESTION 68: The anticipated timeline for co-creation is the first quarter of calendar year 2024. USAID expects to send invitations for the co-creation event and further instructions late December 2023 or early January 2024.

QUESTION 69: Please confirm the approximate length for Section G. Cooperation, as no page length was listed in the APS (page 43-44). The rest of the sections currently total 5 pages without Section G.

ANSWER to QUESTION 69: Please see response to Question 34.

QUESTION 70: USAID states that “applicants can propose a parallel capacity strengthening activity under this APS for local organization consortium members and any other sub-grant recipients, in order to achieve the expected results up to a value of $1,750,000 USD for the life of the Activity (page 19).” Please confirm whether this is in addition to the $92M for the MNCHI+N Activity or must be part of the $92M. In addition, how would USAID like to receive an applicant’s proposal for this parallel activity? As part of the concept note or as part of a full application, should applicants get to that stage?

ANSWER to QUESTION 70: A potential and optional parallel capacity strengthening activity award value must not exceed $1,750,000. The total amount of the zero, one, or more awards to be issued under this current APS must not exceed $92M in total, across all awards.

If proposing a parallel capacity strengthening activity, USAID recommends mention of this intent within the concept paper. However, USAID recognizes space limitations of the concept paper and full elaboration of the approach can be detailed at the full application phase (should the applicant “pass” the concept paper phase).

QUESTION 71: On page 19, USAID states that it expects a substantive leadership transition at no later than the half-way point. Can USAID please confirm that a substantive leadership transition means transitioning any expat or TCN key personnel to Mozambican staff?

ANSWER to QUESTION 71: USAID expects the substantive leadership of key activities as well as the transition of expat and Third Country National (TCN) key personnel staff to Mozambican staff at the approximate as soon as possible, but no later than the half-way point of the project. These transitions will be discussed and agreed to with USAID once the award is made and during work plan development, to ensure appropriate continuity of activities ensuring that objectives of the project can be achieved.

QUESTION 72: On page 11, USAID states that “Formative research and evidence from previous projects will guide the approach to this Activity.” Can USAID make this research and evidence available or indicate where it can be accessed?

ANSWER to QUESTION 72: The applicant is encouraged to investigate former and current project evidence and research to most appropriately ground and guide the technically-sound approach proposed. It is not possible for USAID to list any and all possible formative research and evidence to consider. In particular, applicants are recommended to search for and learn from experiences from MCHIP, MCSP, Alcancar, Transform Nutrition, and USAID Advancing Nutrition.

QUESTION 73: The APS states that “at least 30% of the budget must go to local partners in our full proposal and 50% or more of the budget must go to local partners by the end of the project.” Can USAID please clarify if this means at least 30% of the Year 1 budget must go to local partners, increasing incrementally in each project year budget, to at least 50% of the Year 5 budget?

ANSWER to QUESTION 73: Yes, this is correct.

QUESTION 74: Please confirm that funding for a small grants pool, which would give grants to local organizations, can be included in the funding that is required to go to local partners (at least 30% of the budget must go to local partners in our full proposal and 50% or more of the budget must go to local partners by the end of the project).

ANSWER to QUESTION 74: USAID is highly interested in supporting the increase in the number of capable local organizations committed to improving maternal and child health, immunization and nutrition. The language within the APS is intended to solicit proposals that intentionally consider local organizations participation in the management and implementation of activities as well as providing capacity strengthening support to those local organizations to reach these aims, as needed and appropriate. As stated in the APS, the vision is that local organizations will take on a progressively increasing role in the management and implementation of the activities throughout the life of the award. USAID welcomes proposals to attain this aim, including small grants pools, if the approach description details how it will support the aim of progressive transition.

QUESTION 75: Since funding to local governments is allowable and providing capacity strengthening to the government is critical for sustainability, please confirm that any proposed funding to the government (district, provincial or national) can be calculated as part of the funding that is required to go to local partners (at least 30% of the budget must go to local partners in our full proposal and 50% or more of the budget must go to local partners by the end of the project). Otherwise, the funding for local governments would need to be allocated in the portion of the budget that is going to non-local partners.

ANSWER to QUESTION 75: Please see language on page 18 (revised APS) and consult the Automated Directive System (ADS) 303.3.21, funding to local governments is only allowable under certain, approved circumstances. Given that USAID is already making investments with the local government via direct Government-to-Government funding agreements (more details under Answer to Question 7), USAID does not anticipate that additional funds from this award will go to the government, unless there is explicit detail on how the funds will differ and support those of the G2Gs.

QUESTION 76: Can Rapid Response Funds be used for facility improvement? Can facility and supply chain management improvements be suggested under direct subgrants to government entities?

ANSWER to QUESTION 76: The Rapid Response Fund (RRF) is used to enable recipients to “respond efficiently and effectively to rapid-onset natural and/or man-made disasters.” The purpose of the RRF is to quickly respond to, or mitigate, natural emergencies or crisis originated emergencies, which can lead to the outbreak of disease, an acute shortage of critical essential commodities, and morbidity and mortality among children and mothers.

The use of RRF requires prior written approval from the Agreement Officer.

With Rapid Response or any other budget line item, major construction is not anticipated nor allowable.

QUESTION 77: Could USAID please confirm if Mozambique ministries and the government will be considered as local partners towards meeting the 30% budget mark criteria?

ANSWER to QUESTION 77: Please see responses to Questions 7 and 75.

QUESTION 78: Could USAID please share more information on the decision to include Niassa and/or Tete provinces in the Activity? How will the final decision be made on location?

ANSWER to QUESTION 78: Geographic locations were selected based on epidemiological data, program data, and discussions with the government. As stated on page 16 of the revised APS: “Prior to implementation of the proposed project, a thorough district-by-district mapping of needs, gaps, opportunities, existing partners/ projects, among other factors, is expected. A decision on provinces and districts selected for implementation will occur at the work planning phase after an award is made, with discussions on district and provinces selected occurring throughout the design process and co-creation event.”

QUESTION 79: Could USAID please clarify whether international and local consortium members will be invited to participate in the co-creation workshop along with the prime applicant to ensure that the full partnership’s experience and capabilities are reflected in the project design?

ANSWER to QUESTION 79: Please see the response to Question 40.

QUESTION 80: We are pleased to see nutrition interventions are key priorities, as they are essential for preventing wasting or acute malnutrition. Considering Mozambique’s Nutrition Rehabilitation Program (PRN) and the high prevalence of wasting in the Activity’s target regions, could USAID please clarify if this activity will support the treatment of acute malnutrition (severe wasting) in hospitals and health centers?

ANSWER to QUESTION 80: Applicants are expected to propose interventions that support treatment of acute malnutrition per the Mozambique’s Nutrition Rehabilitation Program guidelines.

QUESTION 81: Could USAID please share to what extent the government of Mozambique will participate in the evaluation process (advisory or otherwise) of applications?

ANSWER to QUESTION 81: USAID expects to invite representatives from the Ministry of Health to participate in the evaluation process. The level of involvement will be determined between USAID and the Ministry of Health

QUESTION 82: Given the possibility for USAID to issue one or multiple awards, could you clarify whether USAID anticipates connecting concept teams for single technical areas with concept teams proposing comprehensive designs during the co-creation phase?

ANSWER to QUESTION 82: Please see responses to Questions 27 and 28.

QUESTION 84: The co-creation phase (Phase 2) mentions: After the concept papers are evaluated, all successful applicants will be invited to continue the co-creation and collaboration process to identify and develop the activities … ; identify and incorporate additional partners; – is it possible for a local organization to potentially join an additional consortium during this co-creation phase? (as a sub-partner, other than those it was a part of during the concept note phase)?

ANSWER to QUESTION 84: Yes. The concept paper phase is just that, an initial proposal to address the results desired. Therefore, applicants may choose to create consortia at this phase or not. It is anticipated that through the co-creation phase the activity design will evolve and new partnerships/approaches will be identified.

QUESTION 85: Please consider an extension of the submission deadline as important information that applicants need to prepare responsive concept notes is still incomplete.

ANSWER to QUESTION 85: The deadline to submit concept paper has been extended from September 29, 2023, to October 31, 2023.

QUESTION 86: In regard to concept note submission (phase 1), a single organization may not submit more than two concept papers (in total, 1) one as an individual organization and one as a part of a consortium; or 2) two concept papers submitted as part of two different consortiums) – does it mean that a local organization can join not more than two different consortiums as a sub-partner?

ANSWER to QUESTION 86: Please see the response to Question 13. Note that this is only for the submission of the concept paper. It is anticipated that shifts may take place throughout the co-creation and full application phases.

QUESTION 87: In Annex 1, there is no page allocation included for "G. Cooperation". The page allocations for the remaining sections add up to 5 pages. Would USAID consider including an additional 1/2 page or page to address this section?

ANSWER to QUESTION 87: Please see response to Question 34.

QUESTION 88: On page 17 of the APS a Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis is mentioned, however, the link is not accessible. Can a link to the Gender Analysis Report accessible to all be shared.

ANSWER to QUESTION 88: The Gender and Inclusive Development Analysis is included as ATTACHMENT 3 - “Mozambique Maternal/Child Health and Nutrition Gender Assessment” in Amendment 01.

QUESTION 89: Is the USAID Improved Maternal, Newborn, Child Health, Immunization, and Nutrition Activity a new…