Maisha Bora - (English) NOFO 72066024RFA00007 101824.pdf

Issuance Date: October 18, 2024 Questions Due: October 25, 2024 Application Due: November 15, 2024, 17:00 Kinshasa Time

Subject: Notice of Funding Opportunity, Number: 72066024RFA00007

Activity Title: USAID Maisha Bora Activity

Dear Prospective Applicants:

The United States Agency for International Development in Democratic Republic of Congo (USAID/DRC) is seeking applications for a Fixed Amount Award (FAA) Cooperative Agreement to implement the USAID Maisha Bora Activity. Eligibility for this award is restricted to local entities, as defined in ADS 303.6, based in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

USAID intends to make an award to the applicant who best meets the objectives of this funding opportunity based on the merit review criteria described in this NOFO subject to a risk assessment. Eligible parties interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of program sought, application submission requirements and selection process.

To be eligible for award, the applicant must provide all information as required in this NOFO and meet eligibility standards in Section C of this NOFO. USAID may not award to an applicant unless the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) requirements. The registration process may take many weeks to complete. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin registration early in the process.

Please send any questions to the points of contact identified in Section G. The deadline for questions is shown above. Responses to questions received prior to the deadline will be furnished to all potential applicants through an amendment to this notice.

Issuance of this Notice of Funding Opportunity does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. Government, nor does it commit the U.S. Government to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of comments/suggestions or an application. All preparation and submission costs are at the Applicant's expense.

Thank you for your interest in USAID programs.

Sincerely, Gregory Wang Supervisory Agreement Officer USAID/Democratic Republic of the Congo

NOFO 72066024RFA00007

Table of Contents

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

SECTION A: FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

SECTION B: FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

SECTION C: ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

SECTION D: APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

SECTION E: CONCEPT REVIEW INFORMATION

1. CRITERIA

2. REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

3. RISK ASSESSMENT

SECTION F: FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

SECTION G: FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACT(S)

SECTION H: OTHER INFORMATION

ANNEX 1 - STANDARD PROVISIONS

ANNEX 2: LOCALIZATION PARTNER LANDSCAPE AND MARKET COMPENSATION SURVEY

ANNEX 3: REQUIRED INFORMATION FOR DETAILED COST APPLICATION FROM THE APPARENTLY

SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

ADS USAID Operational Policy: Automated Directive System AFRICOM U.S. Africa Command BHA Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs AMELP Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan AO USAID Agreement Officer AOR USAID Agreement Officer’s Representative BS & MP Branding Strategy and Marking Plan CFR U.S. Code of Federal Regulations C-GBV Counter- Gender Based Violence Activity DEC USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse DRC Democratic Republic of the Congo EMMP Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Plan GAAS Generally Accepted Auditing Standards GBV Gender Based Violence GNDR Gender IEE Initial Environmental Examination IR (or IRs) Intermediate Result(s) LGBTQI+ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex

M&M Mitigation and Monitoring Plan MONUSCO United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the

Congo NOFO USAID Notice Of Funding Opportunity NGO Non-Governmental Organization NICRA Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement OAA USAID Office of Acquisition and Assistance OMB U.S. Government Office of Management and Budget PDF Adobe Portable Document Format SAM System for Award Management SBCC Social and Behavior Change Communication TO Transition Objective TIP Trafficking in Persons UEI Unique Entity Identifier UN United Nations USAID U.S. Agency for International Development

SECTION A: FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

USAID MAISHA BORA ACTIVITY

I. Background

Gender-based violence (GBV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is widespread and deeply anchored in unequal social norms that disproportionately affect women, girls, and sexual and gender minorities. The persistent scarcity of basic resources and decades of violent conflict and instability exacerbate the issue, intensifying the atrocious violations and crimes perpetrated against women and children. The issue is more pronounced in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri where a breakdown of the rule of law, security institutions, economic life, social capital, and gender roles due to the conflict has seen an alarming surge in GBV cases.

The previous and most recent escalation of violence has resulted in a significant increase in GBV cases in these provinces. According to the UN’s Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), from May to August 2023, at least 46,000 GBV cases were reported in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri. OCHA estimates that a staggering 685,000 people in DRC are at risk of GBV and will require specialized care in 2024. The recent withdrawal of MONUSCO from South Kivu and planned withdrawal from North Kivu and Ituri risks creating a security vacuum, and may escalate GBV risks.

Furthermore, continuous conflict in eastern DRC inhibits progress against other forms of GBV not directly caused by armed conflict, including domestic violence, childhood marriage, and sexual harassment, which are often pervasive, and, unfortunately, tolerated. These negative effects of GBV permeate every aspect of life for victims, their families, their communities, and the country.

Government attention and resources are diverted by decades-long conflict leading to ongoing constraints to effectively address GBV, allowing to persist negative socio-cultural norms, attitudes and beliefs that reinforce GBV, the culture of impunity for perpetrators, and a culture of silence and social stigma for survivors. Furthermore, in the DRC there remains an absence of adequate shelters and safe spaces, a lack of counseling and rehabilitation services for GBV survivors including men and boys who are victims, inadequate and low quality medical care, limited access to justice for victims and survivors, ineffective implementation of laws prohibiting sexual and gender-based violence, lack of awareness among men, boys, and communities of the harmful nature of GBV and the risks of further perpetuation of gender norms. all of which deters survivors from seeking services and pursuing justice.

GBV is a human rights violation, a public health challenge, and a barrier to civic, social, political, and economic participation. Given the unprecedented rates of GBV experienced in the DRC, preventing, mitigating, and responding to GBV remains a top priority for USAID. Since 2002, USAID has been a major donor in the response to, and prevention of, GBV in the DRC. USAID’s anti-GBV programming utilizes a cross-sectoral approach that includes health, education, peace and security, and humanitarian assistance interventions, challenging unequal gender norms, and expanding access to services in targeted provinces. USAID provides comprehensive medical services and psychosocial care to survivors of GBV in health zones across eastern DRC; trains health staff on the medical management of GBV;

raises awareness and makes the case for the positive benefits of gender equality and social inclusion;

and supports survivors on their path to seek justice and socioeconomic integration through the provision of livelihood opportunities.

Multiple local and international organizations support countering GBV in the DRC. Furthermore, USAID/DRC technical offices such as Health, BHA, Education, and Economic Growth, and US Embassy Kinshasa sectors such as Political Office and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) implement activities that work to counter GBV across the DRC. These programs have complementary or overlapping objectives and, as such, constant communication and coordination is vital and expected to prevent the waste of assistance resources. The selected applicant must also closely coordinate with local and international stakeholders on anti-GBV efforts and activities over the life of the project.

II. Objective USAID seeks applications for a multi-sectoral effort to prevent gender-based violence and mitigate its impacts on survivors, marginalized populations, and communities in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri in eastern DRC to implement the new Maisha Bora activity (Swahili for “Well Being”). The activity will support the Mission’s ongoing effort to address gender-based violence (GBV) and act as a key element in achieving the Mission’s Development Objectives under the current Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) (2020 - 2027). USAID/DRC seeks to implement an integrated approach to GBV in the DRC, and this activity should be designed to 1) provide comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal support to GBV survivors; 2) improve access to viable sources of livelihoods for GBV survivors, including marginalized populations; 3) promote positive gender norms, power-relations and attitudes to address a core driver of GBV; 4) support and enhance local advocacy efforts to combat GBV; and 5) reduce stigma to enhance the reintegration of GBV survivors in their communities. This activity should not be limited to only addressing conflict-related GBV, but must include marginalized populations and address GBV in its many forms in communities across the targeted provinces. This activity should also seek to coordinate with other key United States Government (USG) GBV efforts in the DRC through integrated and coordinated programming, and sharing of information, data, best practices, and lessons learned.

This activity will support USAID’s Inclusive Development strategy by protecting the rights, safety, well-being, and inclusion of underrepresented and marginalized groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, sexual and gender minorities, persons with disabilities, and youth, into USAID activities, and develop activities that mitigate harm and promote inclusion and equity within the supported communities.

III. Theory of Change

If GBV survivors access comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal services; and If GBV survivors are empowered through livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities; and If men and boys are engaged to make the case for gender equality and social inclusion; and If communities and service providers’ capacity to prevent and respond to GBV are enhanced; then GBV survivors, marginalized populations, and vulnerable communities will improve their well-being and increase their resilience to prevent and respond to GBV in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri.

IV. Program Intermediate results, Sub-Intermediate results, and Performance Indicators

A. Intermediate Results (IR) and Sub-Intermediate Results (Sub IRs) :

IR 1: Improve access to timely and quality health, psychosocial, legal and protection services for survivors of GBV and other human rights violations

Sub Intermediate Results (Sub-IRs)

● Sub-IR.1.1: Capacity of health workers and providers to provide quality and appropriate health services, including fistula prevention and surgical repair (when appropriate), mental health services to GBV survivors increased

● Sub-IR.1.2: Technical capacity of allied paralegals, lawyers and other public officials in the judicial sectors strengthened

● Sub-IR 1.3: Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms to maintain and pursue restorative justice for survivors and support community reconciliation strengthened

Illustrative Activities

● Provide training to medical providers on GBV case management, Obstetric surgery to prevent fistula (when appropriate), and referral system to direct survivors to the appropriate services

● Strengthen the capacity of psychosocial and mental health providers on psychosocial support techniques and mental health approaches

● Strengthen the capacity of judicial actors on the application of national and international legal instruments on GBV, train them on the DRC judicial procedures and rights of citizens, increase their awareness of GBV and human rights violations, and other related topics including investigation and prosecution of GBV perpetrators

● Educate survivors of GBV, and members of the community, on the services available and where to access these services

● Utilize mobile clinics (medical, psychosocial, and legal) to bring services to hard to reach and remote communities

Illustrative Performance indicators

● GNDR-8: Number of persons trained with USG assistance to advance outcomes consistent with gender equality or female empowerment through their roles in public or private sector institutions or organizations

● GNDR-6: Number of people reached by a USG funded intervention providing GBV services (e.g., health, legal, psycho-social counseling, shelters, hotlines, other)

● ES.4-3: Number of USG-assisted organizations and/or service delivery systems that serve vulnerable persons strengthened

● Percentage of survivors of GBV and other human right violations who benefited from US government funded intervention satisfied by the services received.

IR 2: Increase access to diverse sources of livelihoods as a prevention tool for at-risk population and GBV survivors through support for income generating activities and entrepreneurship

Sub-Intermediate Results

● Sub-IR.2.1: GBV survivors’ and marginalized individuals’ access to social opportunities, such as peer-to-peer mentor groups, safe and appropriate livelihood opportunities improved

● Sub-IR.2.2: Access to economic resources, including establishment of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) among GBV survivors and marginalized individuals increased

● Sub-IR.2.3: Reintegration of GBV survivors and marginalized individuals in their communities through socio-economic activities enhanced.

● Conduct feasibility study of Income Generating Activities (IGAs) among the targeted group/community and identify the factors that contribute/hinder their success to ensure approach is rooted in evidence

● Strengthen the capacity of GBV survivors and their networks to manage micro-projects

● Provide grants to selected candidates for IGAs in their communities

Illustrative Performance Indicators

● GNDR-2: Percentage of female participants in USG-assisted programs designed to increase access to productive economic resources (assets, credit, income or employment)

● Percentage of GBV survivors and marginalized individuals who reported improving their well-being thanks to Income Generating Activities

IR 3: Promote social norm change to address drivers of gender inequality and GBV in communities through a social and behavior change (SBC) approach

Sub-Intermediate Results

● Sub IR 3.1: Men and boys, and youths’ ability to recognize and address the adverse effects of inequalities and social norms enhanced

● Sub IR 3.2: Community tolerance/acceptance and normalization of GBV reduced

● Sub IR 3.3: Capacity of GBV community actors and organizations techniques for social behavior change and advocacy techniques enhanced

● Further engage men and boys in a culturally sensitive manner to strengthen their knowledge and capacity to promote gender equality and social inclusion

● Support community radio stations and community mobilization programs about GBV such as film screenings, radio messages, FGDs, etc, to incorporate anti-GBV communication campaigns into regular broadcast programming

● Increase involvement of the community leaders, who are the custodians of the cultural norms in society, and local community organizations in anti-GBV focus group discussions with communities to ensure the communities’ buy-in and long term sustainability of program outcomes

● Engage youth and children in schools and community forums by establishing gender clubs and incorporating anti-GBV conversations in youth clubs to promote gender equality and social inclusion.

Illustrative Performance Indicators

● DR.4.2-2: Number of civil society organizations supported by the U.S. Government engaged in advocacy interventions

● GNDR-11: Percentage of women reporting increased influence over household spending decisions following participation in a USG-assisted intervention.

● GNDR-4: Percentage of participants reporting increased agreement with the concept that males and females should have equal access to social, economic, and political resources and opportunities

The above list of illustrative activities are not exhaustive of what USAID envisions for this activity. USAID strongly recommends and encourages applicants to develop their own innovative solutions and suggest activities outside of what USAID proposes.

IV. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning:

The Applicant must submit a summary of their Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan (AMELP). The summary AMELP must include suggested benchmarks and indicators for measuring progress for all activities, including indicators specified in the PD and USAID/DRC’s performance management plan (PMP). The plan must specify how data will be collected and analyzed for each of the benchmarks and indicators, and include a description of the role and responsibilities of the relevant MEL POC(s). Measurement will focus on both output and outcome data as well as on higher levels of impact, to demonstrate the effects and results of program activities. Qualitative indicators are acceptable if they provide the most useful information for measuring outcomes and learning. All data must be disaggregated by sex, gender, disability, age, and geography, whenever applicable. The compilation and synthesizing of the data will be completed by the responsible MEL specialist. The activity should use data to inform planning and management decisions, and to track the progress of the activity. All activity-level data must be stored and managed by the implementing partner.

To ensure data quality, the applicant’s MEL Specialist will oversee MEL training and conduct routine data quality assessments to improve data timeliness, accuracy, and completion. Technical officers will work on the quarterly work plans, and ensure targets are met and indicators are reported. The USAID Maisha Bora Activity program management team will receive support from USAID for an outside Data Quality Assessment (DQA). In addition to DQA, the Maisha Bora MEL team will also benefit from capacity building sessions in MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning) organized by USAID. They will also be trained in the use of the development information solution (DIS) to report their performance data.

USAID recognizes that shifts in the country context will require adjustments to the management and technical approach. This may include, for example, altering the staffing plan to mobilize different or additional assets, changing the location of activities, pausing or expanding interventions under individual objectives, and the ability to seize short term opportunities. The preferred applicant and its partners’ recommendations will also inform learning and any adjustments to the MEL. The MEL Specialist will track the data on value-based programming to ensure USAID values and the values of the target population are being respected in the implementation process.

Conducting a conflict analysis is essential for understanding the conflict context and informing current or anticipated programming. The Recipient will be required to perform a Conflict Sensitivity Analysis - using the USAID designed Conflict Sensitivity Analysis Tool within 45 days of the start of the award. This analysis will inform USAID of potential unintended negative effects of aid and enable the partner and the USAID AOR to identify mitigation efforts and opportunities to influence conflict positively so that aid provides benefits to local communities, populations and biodiversity.

A gender and social Inclusion (GESI) analysis should be conducted prior to the implementation of the activity. The results from the GESI analysis will inform the development of an inclusive development strategy within the first annual implementation plan that details efforts to engage marginalized groups and to identify and address their development priorities. The Recipient must update the strategy annually and incorporate it with the annual implementation plan. The Recipient may reference Suggested Approaches for Integrating Inclusive Development Across the Program Cycle and in Mission Operations (Additional Help for ADS 201) for additional information. A discussion of how an inclusive development strategy will be implemented must take place in a post-award meeting(s) with the Recipient. A political economy analysis should also be conducted prior to the implementation of the activity, followed by a detailed risk analysis framework that the selected applicant will monitor to maximize the achievements of planned results.

[END OF SECTION A]

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-10/USAID-ID-Hub_ADS-201-AH-Document_Oct-2023_1.pdf https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-10/USAID-ID-Hub_ADS-201-AH-Document_Oct-2023_1.pdf

SECTION B: FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

1. Estimate of Funds Available and Number of Awards Contemplated

USAID intends to award a Fixed Amount Award, Cooperative Agreement. This award will have a period of performance of five years.

USAID intends to provide an estimated $ 9,000,000 or 60% in total USAID funding for the initial three-year period. The actual amount of the renewal award period will be an estimated figure of $6,000,000 or 40%, with the actual amount of the renewal award period higher or lower depending on the specific activities to be performed, adaptations of the activity in the future context, and funding availability.

USAID intends to award one (1) award pursuant to this Notice of Funding Opportunity. USAID reserves the right to fund any one or none of the applications submitted.

2. Start Date and Period of Performance for Federal Awards

The period of performance anticipated is five years separated into the initial award period of three years with the potential for renewal for an additional two years.

The estimated period of performance start date is December 2024.

3. Award Renewal

This award is subject to renewal for an additional two years of implementation. Renewal of the award will be subject to the submission of a renewal application and a programmatic review is contingent on the following:

● Availability of funds

● Satisfactory progress towards meeting the award objectives

● Submittal of required reports

● Compliance with the terms and conditions of the award, including the conditions for renewal

During the programmatic review, USAID will review and document the following:

● The Recipient has met performance and progress in a satisfactory way and still merits support

● Program activities are still relevant to the Agency’s objectives

● The renewal will support either the same work, or work that is within the programmatic activities of the current award or is closely related to the current programmatic activities

● The renewal supports the same long-term goal, with new specific targets, milestones, outputs, or indicators

● The Recipient meets the required risk-assessment requirements

4. Substantial Involvement

Per ADS 303.3.11 “Substantial Involvement and Cooperative Agreements,” a cooperative agreement implies a level of substantial involvement by USAID in certain programmatic elements during performance of the project. This substantial involvement will be through the Agreement Officer (AO), except to the extent that he/she delegates authority to the Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR).

USAID will remain substantially involved during the implementation of this cooperative agreement in the following ways:

A. Approval of the Recipient’s Annual Implementation Plans. The Annual Implementation Plans (Work Plans) acts as a living document which is approved annually and adjusted in changed contexts or as new information requires a pivot in the activity. USAID will participate in regular reviews with the Recipient throughout implementation with the submission and approval of revisions.

B. The Agreement Office may halt an activity if detailed performance specifications are not met. These would be provisions that go beyond the suspension remedies of the Federal Government for noncompliance as stated in 2 CFR 200, including non-performance. The AO and Recipient must sign a bilateral amendment for any material changes to the specifications in the award.

C. USAID collaboration or joint participation in program planning and implementation, to include:

a. Review and oversight of the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan.

b. Monitoring specific direction or redirection of activities because of interrelationships with other projects.

5. Title to Property

Property title under the resultant agreement is planned to vest with the recipient in accordance with the requirements of mandatory standard provision titled “title to and use of property” regarding use, accountability, and disposition of such property following a review and approval of the property disposition plan.

6. Authorized Geographic Code

The authorized Geographic Code for activity under this award is 937, which is defined as the United States, the recipient country (DRC), and developing countries other than advanced developing countries, but excluding any country that is a prohibited source. The geographic code for the procurement of commodities and services under this program must adhere to the conditions stated in 2 CFR 200.

7. Nature of the Relationship Between USAID and the Recipient

The principal purpose of the relationship with the award recipient under the subject activity is to transfer funds to accomplish a public purpose of the USAID Maisha Bora Activity which is authorized by Federal statute.

The Recipient will be responsible for ensuring the achievement of the activity’s objectives and the efficient and effective administration of the award through the application of sound management practices. The Recipient will assume responsibility for administering Federal funds in a manner consistent with underlying agreements, program objectives, and the terms and conditions of the Federal award. The Recipient, using its own unique combination of staff, facilities, and experience, has the primary responsibility for employing whatever form of sound organization and management techniques may be necessary in order to assure proper and efficient administration of the resulting award.

8. Program Income

No program income is anticipated to be generated under the award(s) at this point. However, if program income is generated during the implementation of the program, the Agreement Officer reserves his/her rights in determining exactly how that income will be treated and considered under the award, in line with 2 CFR 200.307.

[END OF SECTION B]

SECTION C: ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

Eligibility for this NOFO is restricted to local non-governmental entities based in or operate in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Only local organizations as defined below are eligible for the award. USAID defines a “local entity” as an individual, a corporation, a nonprofit organization, or another body of persons that:

1) Is legally organized under the laws of; and

2) Has as its principal place of business or operations in; and

3) Is

a) majority owned by individuals who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of;

and

b) managed by a governing body the majority of who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the country receiving assistance.

For purposes of this definition, ‘majority owned’ and ‘managed by’ include, without limitation, beneficiary interests and the power, either directly or indirectly, whether exercised or exercisable, to control the election, appointment, or tenure of the organization's managers or a majority of the organization's governing body by any means.

USAID welcomes applications from organizations that have not previously received financial assistance from USAID.

Faith-based organizations are eligible to apply for federal financial assistance on the same basis as any other organization and are subject to the protections and requirements of Federal law.

2. RISK ASSESSMENT

In order for an award to be made, the USAID Agreement Officer must evaluate the risks posed by applicants as outlined in 2 CFR 200.205 and ADS 303.3.9. The AO must conduct a risk assessment using the Fixed Amount Award Entity Eligibility Checklist. This means that the Applicant must possess, or must have the ability to obtain, the necessary management and technical competence to conduct the proposed program and must agree to practice mutually agreed-upon methods of accountability for funds and other assets provided or funded by USAID.

In evaluating the risks posed by Applicants, USAID uses the Fixed Amount Award Entity Eligibility Checklist and may consider:

i) Organizational Integrity https://www.usaid.gov/about-us/agency-policy/series-300/references-chapter/303mak https://www.usaid.gov/about-us/agency-policy/series-300/references-chapter/303mak https://www.usaid.gov/about-us/agency-policy/series-300/references-chapter/303mak

ii) Organizational Capacity to Achieve the Proposed Fixed Amount Award Activity

iii) Past Performance in the Sector

iv) Fixed Amount Award Activity Implementation Viability

v) Fixed Amount Award Pre-Award Financial Review Checklist Applicable for Authorizing Advances of Funds, if Necessary

vi) Certifications, Assurances, Representations Included/Obtained, as Appropriate

In the absence of a positive risk assessment, an award can ordinarily not be made. Awards to potential new Recipients may be significantly delayed if USAID must undertake necessary pre-award reviews of these organizations to make an adequate assessment. These organizations should take this into account and plan their implementation dates and activities accordingly.

[END OF SECTION C]

SECTION D: APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Agency Point of Contact

USAID DRC Office of Acquisition and Assistance (OAA) is the POC for this NOFO.

USAID/DRC/OAA

Kinshasa, DRC drcoaa@usaid.gov

Questions and Answers: All questions regarding this NOFO should be submitted in writing to Clement Kashala, Acquisition and Assistance Specialist, ckashala@usaid.gov, copying drcoaa@usaid.gov. Questions should be submitted no later than the date and time indicated in the cover page of this NOFO, to provide sufficient time to address the questions and incorporate the questions and answers as an amendment to this NOFO.

Any information given to a prospective Applicant concerning this NOFO will be furnished promptly to all other prospective Applicants as an amendment to this NOFO, if that information is necessary in submitting applications or if the lack of it would be prejudicial to any other prospective Applicant.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

The Applicant is expected to review, understand, and comply with all aspects of the NOFO.

Preparation of Applications:

Each applicant must furnish the information required by this NOFO. This subsection addresses general content requirements applying to the full application. Please see below for information on the content specific to the applications.

Any erasures or other changes to the application must be initiated by the person signing the application. Applications signed by an agent on behalf of the applicant must be accompanied by evidence of that agent’s authority unless that evidence has been previously furnished to the issuing office.

Applicants may choose to submit a cover letter in addition to the cover pages, but it will serve only as a transmittal letter to the Agreement Officer. The cover letter will not be reviewed as part of the merit review criteria.

Applications must comply with the following:

● USAID will not review any pages in excess of the page limits noted in the subsequent sections. Please ensure that applications comply with the page limitations.

mailto:drcoaa@usaid.gov mailto:ckashala@usaid.gov about:blank mailto:drcoaa@usaid.gov mailto:pkollars@usaid.gov

● Written in English or French.

● Legible font

● Submitted via Microsoft Word or PDF accessible formats, except budget files which must be submitted in Microsoft Excel.

● The estimated start date identified in Section B of this NOFO must be used in the cost application.

● The technical application must be a searchable and editable Word or PDF format as appropriate.

Applicants must review, understand, and comply with all aspects of this NOFO. Failure to do so may be considered as being non-responsive and may be evaluated accordingly. Applicants should retain a copy of the application and all enclosures for their records.

3. Application Submission Procedures

It is the Applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all necessary documentation is complete and received on time. USAID/DRC will only consider applications that are submitted on time, complete, and consistent with the submission requirements described in this NOFO.

Applications must be submitted by email to drcoaa@usaid.gov and ckashala@usaid.gov by the closing date listed on the cover page of this funding opportunity. Email submissions must include the NOFO number and applicant’s name in the subject line heading. Late applications may be removed from consideration.

After submitting an application electronically, applicants should immediately check their own email to confirm that the attachments were indeed sent. USAID will respond with confirmation of receipt, so if an applicant does not receive such a confirmation, please reach out to the email again to confirm.

If an applicant discovers an error in transmission, please send the material again and note in the subject line of the email or indicate in the file name if submitted via grants.gov that it is a "corrected" submission. Do not send the same email more than once unless there has been a change, and if so, please note that it is a "corrected" email.

mailto:ckashala@usaid.gov

4. Application Process and Content

USAID/DRC will follow the following application selection process:

▪ Phase I - Concept paper

▪ Phase II - Co-creation

▪ Phase III - Full final technical and cost application submission

a. Phase I - Concept and History of Performance: Content and Form of Submission

The Applicant must submit an application that does not exceed the limitations per section listed below. The Application should be written from a comprehensive viewpoint that demonstrates the approaches proposed by the Applicant and lays out how the Applicant is uniquely capable of achieving the Activity outcomes and results set forth in the Funding Opportunity Description.

The Applicants may provide technical applications in French or English.

A complete Application package for Phase 1 should consist of the following and submitted in two separate parts:

Order Part Required Item Page Limit

1 Part 1 (Technical) Cover Page 1

2 Executive Summary 1

3 Technical Approach 7

4 Annex 1: Summary MEL Plan 5

5 Management and Staffing Plan 4

6 Annex 2: Resumes for Key Personnel 4

8 Organizational Capacity 3

9 Part 2 (Business) Summary Budget Information 1

10 History of Performance 3

1) Cover Page (1 page)

The cover page must include:

● The Activity Title

● Funding Opportunity Number

● Name of the Applicant

● Point of contact for the Applicant (contact name, title or position with the organization/institution, signature, address, telephone number, and email address)

● Applicant’s UEI number, if applicable

2) Executive Summary (1 page), containing a succinct summary of the key elements of the applicant’s vision, strategy, and approaches for achieving the results of the proposed activity with relevant highlights from all sections below.

3) Technical Approach (up to 7 pages) (merit review criterion 1)

The applicants must submit a narrative that describes the technical approach to achieving all of the objectives and intermediate results in the program description and the applicant’s expected inputs, planned activities, and expected outputs, outcomes, and results. At a minimum, applicants should describe the extent to which the applicant’s proposed technical approach

1. demonstrates deep understanding of the country, provincial, and health zone context, including the need and challenges and localized solutions that leverage the strengths of the communities and context;

2. is clear, ambitious yet feasible, innovative, evidence-based, appropriately tailored, and promotes system strengthening and sustainability;

3. fully integrates and embodies the guiding principles and objectives outlined in the Program Description.

4. demonstrates capacity to support USAID’s Inclusive Development strategy by protecting the rights, safety, well-being, and inclusion of underrepresented and marginalized groups, not only as beneficiaries but also as actors and involved in the implementation of USAID Maisha bora proposed interventions.

The applicants will submit the following as annexes to the technical approach which are not part of the technical application:

5. Annex 1: Summary Activity Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Plan (AMELP) (up to 5 pages):

The Applicant must submit a short summary of their Activity Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Plan (AMELP) plan and include a description of the role and responsibilities of the relevant MEL POC(s). The summary AMELP plan must include suggested benchmarks and indicators for measuring progress for all activities, including indicators specified in the PD and USAID/DRC’s performance management plan (PMP). The plan must specify how data will be collected and analyzed for each of the benchmarks and indicators.

The Applicant should describe anticipated data collection sources and frequency, a proposed data management system, a proposed level of granularity for analysis of key indicators, and a data quality assurance methodology. The learning section of the AMELP should illustrate how the M&E system will support learning, fill knowledge gaps, and support decision-making.

6. Management and Staffing (up to 4 pages) (merit review criterion 2)

Applicants must describe the approach to management and staffing as expressed through a Management and Staffing Plan and an appropriate mix of qualified individuals as key personnel to lead the successful implementation of the activity. Applicants should propose personnel based on the proposed technical approach to achieve the results as outlined in Section A of the

NOFO.

The management structure should demonstrate a streamlined and effective structure to oversee activities in all areas of implementation and demonstrate sustainability of the activity in empowering and advancing leadership in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The management and staffing plan should provide information on the proposed field management structure and demonstrate adequate financial controls. The management and staffing plan should describe how the applicant has considered DEIA, gender balance, and localized expertise from the areas of activity implementation.

The applicants should clearly describe the distinctive roles and responsibilities of their organization and any sub/partner organizations and how they will contribute to achieving the expected results. The plan must include an overview of how activities and communication will be managed and coordinated. The Management and Staffing Plan should reflect a preference for a decentralized staffing plan, placing technical staff at the provincial level.

Key personnel are those considered to be essential to the work being performed under the activity.

The applicant must specify and include in their application the appropriate key personnel positions anticipated for this activity. Applicants must submit the key personnel position title, propose position descriptions, outline roles and responsibilities, and minimum qualifications for each. Key personnel will be assessed on the appropriateness of their experience and qualifications.

All key personnel and changes to key personnel are subject to approval of USAID.

Applicants should submit the following annexes related to management and staffing:

7. Annex 2: Resumes of proposed key personnel and references (up to 4 pages):

Should demonstrate the relevant professional qualifications and experience appropriate to manage and achieve the expected results, including three professional references for each individual (name of reference, position/title, professional relationship, email address and phone number). USAID may seek references from the provided sources as well as additional references as needed.

8. Organizational Capacity (up to 3 pages) (merit review criterion 3)

Applicants must demonstrate technical and managerial expertise that would directly benefit the activity implementation and reflect comparative advantages in implementing proposed interventions. Applicants should articulate demonstrated technical capabilities within the team and/or partners in the following areas: gender-based violence prevention, mitigation, and response, technical capacity strengthening of local service providers, institutional and organizational capacity strengthening, advocacy, and livelihood and economic development.

Information in this section should include the following:

● Brief description of organizational history/expertise

● Relevant experience with proposed interventions

● Experience in managing successful programs

9. Summary Budget (1 page)

The summary budget information must indicate the requested USAID funding amount, inclusive of all program costs broken out by major budget category for planned activities implemented by the applicant for the entire period of the program. Basic cost and budget assumptions applied must be provided in support of the summary budget. A detailed budget will be requested from the apparently successful applicant following the guidance provided in annex 5.

The Summary Budget Information must follow the format / template below:

Line Item Total Amount

(USD)

Cost/Budget Assumption Applied

Personnel $ Example: “The total amount accounts for the salaries of X number of personnel” including fringe benefits?

Travel $ Example: “The amount covers the cost of X number of in-country travel and X number of international travel in support of the activity”

Equipment/Supplies $ Example: The amount covers the cost of office equipment for X number of staff in X number of field offices.”

Contractual/Program activities

The cost of program activity fees include training for service providers, services cost, supervisions, SBCC including events, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation, consultants

Other Direct Costs $ Example: “The amount covers the costs of rental of venues for facilitating X training/workshops”

Subawards $

Total Estimated Amount

10. History of Performance

Applicants must provide information regarding its recent history of performance for up to three of its contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements involving similar or related programs, in the past 3 years, as follows. USAID may conduct reference checks from additional sources for risk assessment.

Client Organization Information

1. Client Organization:

2. Contract/Award Number:

3. Contract/Award Type (prime award or subaward - contract or grant):

4. Contract/Award Value (USD):

5. Client Contact Information (Name, Title, email):

6. Activity Title:

7. Primary location(s) of Work:

8. Period of Performance:

9. Brief Description of Product/Services Provided (Scope of Work or complexity/diversity of tasks):

c. Phase II - Co-creation and full technical and cost application submission

The Apparently Successful Applicant and USAID will discuss specific plans and formats for co-creation/co-development and an associated timeline for developing the final Program Description and milestone plan. Identified Key Personnel from the Applicant’s application should be available to participate and support the co-creation phase. USAID highly encourages at least the proposed Project Manager and other key personnel who are available to take part in the co-creation exercise.

Following completion of the co-creation activities, the Apparently Successful Applicant must submit a full technical and cost application accounting for conclusions of the co-creation.

Details on the submission of the full technical and cost application will be provided following the co-creation.

5. Other Requirements

a) Unique Entity Identification and SAM Requirements

USAID may not award to an applicant unless the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier (UEI) number and System for Award Management (SAM) requirements. Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal awarding agency that is exempted from requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the Federal awarding agency under 2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to:

1. Provide and obtain a valid UEI number, before award.

2. Be registered in SAM before receiving an award. SAM is streamlining processes, eliminating the need to enter the same data multiple times, and consolidating hosting to make the process of doing business with the government more efficient (www.sam.gov).

3. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal awarding agency.

The registration process may take many weeks to complete. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin the process early. If an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements above by the time USAID is ready to make an award, USAID may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award and use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant.

“Navigating the SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier Process.” This blog provides an overview for both U.S. and non-U.S.-based entities and direct partners to a host of resources available on WorkwithUSAID.gov, such as:

● Training module on Registering to Work with USAID (French);

○ Step-by-step guide on navigating Login.gov (French);

○ Step-by-step guide on navigating SAM.gov (French); and

○ Step-by-step guide on obtaining an NCAGE code (French) ;

● Quick reference guides for non-U.S.-based organizations (French); and

● A key information log that outlines all of the information organizations need to collect for registration.

b) Funding Restrictions https://www.workwithusaid.gov/blog/navigating-the-sam-gov-unique-entity-identifier-process https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2022-12/Registering-to-Work-USAID-Main-Step-by-Step.pdf https://www.workwithusaid.gov/resource-library/s-inscrire-pour-collaborer-avec-l-usaid-guide-sequentiel-principal-1 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/Registering-to-Work-Module-Logingov-Guide-508.pdf https://www.workwithusaid.gov/resource-library/s-inscrire-pour-collaborer-avec-l-usaid-login-gov-un-guide-sequentiel-1 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/Registering-to-Work-Module-SAM-Guide-508.pdf https://www.workwithusaid.gov/resource-library/s-inscrire-pour-collaborer-avec-l-usaid-systeme-pour-la-gestion-des-subventions-sam-1 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/Registering-to-Work-Module-NCAGE-Guide-508.pdf https://www.workwithusaid.gov/resource-library/s-inscrire-pour-collaborer-avec-l-usaid-code-otan-d-organisme-commercial-ou-gouvernemental-ncage-1 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2022-12/USAID_NPI_QRG_RegisteringtoWork-NON-US_5-25-22.pdf https://www.workwithusaid.gov/resource-library/guide-de-reference-rapide-s-inscrire-pour-collaborer-avec-l-usaid-partenaires-bases-hors-des-etats-unis-1 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/2023-07/Registering-to-Work-Module-Key-Information-Log.Final_.508wncage.xlsx

There are no funding restrictions applicable to this NOFO at this time. USAID in its discretion and at the request of the winning applicant may allow pre-award costs.

Profit is not allowable for recipients or subrecipients under this award. See 2 CFR

200.331 for assistance in determining whether a sub-tier entity is a subrecipient or contractor.

Construction will not be authorized under this award.

USAID will not allow the reimbursement of pre-award costs under this award without the explicit written approval of the Agreement Officer.

Except as may be specifically approved in advance by the AO, all commodities and services that will be reimbursed by USAID under this award must be from the authorized geographic code specified in Section B.4 of this NOFO and must meet the source and nationality requirements set forth in 22 CFR 228.

c) Conflict of Interest PRE-AWARD TERM (August 2018)

a. Personal Conflict of Interest

1. An actual or appearance of a conflict of interest exists when an applicant organization or an employee of the organization has a relationship with an Agency official involved in the competitive award decision-making process that could affect that Agency official’s impartiality. The term “conflict of interest” includes situations in which financial or other personal considerations may compromise, or have the appearance of compromising, the obligations and duties of a USAID employee or recipient employee.

2. The applicant must provide conflict of interest disclosures when it submits an

SF-424. Should the applicant discover a previously undisclosed conflict of interest after submitting the application, the applicant must disclose the conflict of interest to the AO no later than ten (10) calendar days following discovery.

b. Organizational Conflict of Interest

The applicant must notify USAID of any actual or potential conflict of interest that they are aware of that may provide the applicant…