Questions & Answers - Strengthening Early Warning, Detection, and Response in Mozambique.docx

Questions and Responses Strengthening Early Warning, Detection & Response in Mozambique (DFOP0018118)

1. How does CT conceptualize “early warning” under this NOFO? There are a number of potential routes to address this, for example: community-based reporting and trust building mechanisms, internal law enforcement intelligence processes, broader integrated multistakeholder systems linking communities, PRM, and other authorities.

CT conceptualizes "early warning" under this NOFO as a combination of community-based reporting and trust-building mechanisms alongside internal law enforcement intelligence processes. The intent of this program is to enable law enforcement to receive actionable information that can be used to disrupt attacks on U.S. critical interests, particularly the LNG interests in Cabo Delgado. Applicants should propose approaches that enhance the ability of PRM units to gather, analyze, and act upon early warning information from relevant sources.

1. Is CT seeking geographically concentrated interventions around priority U.S. economic interests, or broader district level coverage that strengthens systemic early warning capacity in Cabo Delgado?

CT is seeking geographically concentrated interventions focused specifically in areas with U.S. economic interests, particularly around the LNG projects in Cabo Delgado. CT, however, defers to applicants on determining the appropriate geographic coverage needed to effectively establish early warning, detection, and response capabilities that protect these critical interests.

1. Are there specific U.S. Government expectations regarding data protection, information classification, and safeguards when strengthening information sharing channels between communities and PRM or the law enforcement actors?

Data protection, information classification, and safeguard requirements will depend on the nature and sensitivity of the information being shared through the program. The selected implementer will be expected to work closely with CT to establish appropriate protocols that protect sensitive information while enabling effective early warning and response capabilities.

1. Will the CT Bureau consider construction or rehabilitation of small infrastructure, such as community centers that facilitate dialogue linked to justice mechanisms, within the scope of this project?

Yes, CT would consider small-scale construction or rehabilitation projects that would help facilitate dialogue and coordination between law enforcement and local communities, provided such infrastructure directly supports the program's objectives of establishing early warning, detection, and response capabilities in Cabo Delgado. Applicants proposing construction or rehabilitation activities should clearly justify how such infrastructure would enhance information sharing, community engagement, and the overall effectiveness of early warning mechanisms. Any proposed construction must be appropriately budgeted, comply with relevant regulations, and be sustainable within the program's scope and timeline.

1. Will the CT Bureau consider research to form the evidence base for tailored community interventions within the scope of this project?

CT expects the selected implementer to conduct research and assessments to inform final program plans and ensure interventions are appropriately tailored to the local context in Cabo Delgado. Applicants, however, should carefully consider the balance between resources allocated to research activities versus direct program objectives and implementation activities. Proposed research should be clearly justified as necessary to support effective program design and implementation and should be appropriately scoped to avoid excessive costs that detract from operational activities. The focus should remain on establishing early warning, detection, and response capabilities that protect U.S. critical interests in the region.

1. Could CT clarify expectations regarding the mentor’s level of engagement (full-time or part-time), and any information on a preferred candidate profile? Have PRM or relevant Mozambican authorities been consulted on this deployment, and are there any sensitivities applicants should consider?

CT would consider applications that incorporate either full-time or part-time mentorship models. If an applicant chooses to pursue a part-time mentorship approach, CT expects the use of a consistent mentor over the life of the award. Building strong, trust-based relationships with Mozambican law enforcement is essential to the success of this program, and continuity in mentorship personnel is critical to achieving this objective.

The U.S. Government and the Government of Mozambique routinely coordinate on cooperation opportunities. Detailed discussions regarding the specific scope and implementation of this program will take place following implementer selection.

1. How should activities geared toward institutional systems strengthening—such as coordination mechanisms, SOPs, information sharing processes, and command and control linkages—be reflected in the PMP and logic model?

For the provided examples, CT would want to see logic model steps (e.g., activities to outputs to outcomes, etc) and PMP indicators that ideally demonstrate the extent of the use of these resources – e.g., are coordination mechanisms being actively utilized by supported PRM units, are these SOPs being adopted and/or employed in their early-warning and response actions, etc. Where feasible, the logic model steps and PMP indicators would additionally demonstrate the extent of these resources’ effectiveness – e.g., are they linked to examples of the timely reporting of suspicious activity by engaged communities, or of the generation of actionable intelligence. Please also see the CT Logic Model and PMP ‘How To’ Guides for additional assistance.

1. Are there CT-preferred indicators or results frameworks for measuring improvements in early warning, threat detection, and transit security that applicants are encouraged to align with?

There are currently no CT-preferred indicators or results frameworks for measuring improvements in these specific areas. Applicants should develop indicators based on their determinations of the best ways to measure project progress in these areas and are also encouraged to draw on the relevant guidance in the provided PMP ‘How To’ Guide.

1. Can the logic model and PMP be submitted as separate attachments that do not count toward the 12-page proposal?

Yes, the logic model and performance monitoring plan are not included in the 12-page limit and should be provided as attachments.

1. If the logic model and PMP cannot be submitted as separate attachments, can applicants use 10-point Times New Roman for these tables?

See above.

1. For the PMP, can a more flexible format be used for the layout to better accommodate the detailed data requested, provided all content remains legible and professional?

CT prefers that applicants use the provided CT PMP template, since the winning applicant will be using that format for the full PMP they develop for this project. Note that the PMP submitted with the proposal does not count against the 12-page limit, and can be a preliminary draft of the PMP – i.e., it does not need to account for all indicators, but does need to sufficiently demonstrate the applicant’s ability to accurately track project performance throughout its lifecycle.

1. Can you please confirm that the "title page" mentioned on NOFO p.9 is the same as the "Summary Page"?

Yes, the “title page” and the “summary page” are the same.

1. Are activities required to be organized under the NOFO’s two CT Program Outcomes? Or can applicants organize activities differently but in line with these two CT Program Outcomes?

Applicants can organize activities differently as long as they align with and support the two CT Program Outcomes outlined in the NOFO.

1. Do applicants need to follow a specific template for the Risk Analysis?

No, applicants do not need to follow a specific template for the risk analysis and can use their own template.

1. Can applicants list subject matter experts in the “Key Personnel” section of the Proposal, as well as key staff? If so, can the required statement on the proportion of time committed to the project be limited to staff members only?

Applicants should only list personnel in the "Key Personnel" section who will work directly on the program. This may include subject matter experts and key staff. All individuals listed in the "Key Personnel" section should have a proportion of time committed to the project specified in the proposal.

1. The NOFO references PRM as a target beneficiary institution. Can applicants also include SERNIC as a beneficiary?

Yes, SERNIC can be a beneficiary of this program.

1. Is there a maximum percentage of the total award that may be passed through to a local subawardee?

There is no maximum percentage of the total award that may be passed through to a local subawardee.

1. Is the geographic scope strictly limited to Cabo Delgado province, or may a portion of activities extend to Nampula or other northern provinces, if justified by program logic?

The geographic scope of this program should be focused on creating early warning, detection, and response capabilities in Cabo Delgado province. If the applicant determines that it is necessary to extend activities to Nampula or other northern provinces to accomplish this objective, the applicant should clearly highlight the justification and programmatic rationale in the application, explaining how such geographic expansion directly supports the core mission of strengthening capabilities in Cabo Delgado.

1. Is a Pemba-based residency requirement for the Resident Mentor/Advisor mandatory, or may this role be fulfilled from Maputo with documented regular field travel to target districts?

The mentor/advisor can be located near Cabo Delgado or in Maputo. If the mentor/advisor is based in Maputo, the expectation is that they will make routine trips to the region to develop relationships and provide effective mentorship. The key requirement is maintaining consistent engagement with counterparts in Cabo Delgado to build the trust and rapport essential for successful mentorship.

1. P6 of the NOFO mentions providing "limited, non-lethal equipment", identified during implementation: is there a minimum/maximum budget amount that applicants should include in their proposal budget for this equipment?

There is no minimum or maximum budget amount for non-lethal equipment. The decision on how much of the budget to allocate for equipment is left to the applicant's discretion.

1. Should applicants take into account Leahy vetting in their program timelines?

Yes, applicants should take Leahy vetting into account in their program timelines. Leahy vetting is required for all U.S. government foreign assistance to law enforcement and can affect the timing of program implementation.

1. How many PRM officers are in the unit(s) that will receive assistance under this award?

This initiative will specifically target the PRM units stationed closest to the LNG programs in Cabo Delgado. A comprehensive assessment of the exact number of personnel within each targeted unit will be completed following the selection of the implementer.

1. Has the scope of the NOFO been briefed and communicated to relevant authorities within the government of Mozambique?

The U.S. Government maintains ongoing coordination with the Government of Mozambique on strengthening law enforcement training and collaboration in Cabo Delgado. Detailed discussions regarding the specific scope and implementation approach of this initiative will take place following the award selection.

1. Does the USG have an agreement with the Government of Mozambique to allow mentor / trainers to live and operate in Cabo Delgado?

The United States Government does not currently have a specific agreement with the Government of Mozambique that addresses the stationing of mentors and trainers in Cabo Delgado. Following the selection process, the USG will engage in discussions with the Government of Mozambique to determine the optimal locations for mentors and trainers based on operational requirements, security considerations, and host nation preferences.

1. Is there a main location for place of performance within Cabo Delgado?

Following the selection process, the USG will engage in discussions with the Government of Mozambique to determine the optimal locations for mentors and trainers based on operational requirements, security considerations, and host nation preferences.

1. Are there any locations in Cabo Delgado that the Government of Mozambique will not allow personnel to visit and work in?

Following the selection process, the USG will engage in discussions with the Government of Mozambique to determine the optimal locations for mentors and trainers based on operational requirements, security considerations, and host nation preferences.

1. Page 8, section D.3 outlines required items to be included in proposal submissions limited to 12 pages. Could you please confirm that the logic model and the preliminary performance monitoring plan listed are to be excluded from the page limit and are to be provided as attachments?

Yes, that is correct. The logic model and the preliminary performance monitoring plan are not included in the 12-page limit for proposal submissions outlined in Section D.3. These items should be provided as attachments to your proposal.

1. Could you please confirm that any text provided in tables or graphics can be in 10-point font?

Yes, text provided in tables or graphics can be in 10-point font, provided it remains legible and professional. The 12-point font requirement applies to the main body text of the proposal.

1. Could you clarify the types of non-lethal equipment envisioned and whether providing such equipment is expected or required in proposals Non-lethal equipment envisioned under this program includes items that enhance law enforcement response capabilities and facilitate community engagement. Response capability equipment may include protective gear (such as body armor and helmets), Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs), vehicles for transportation and mobility, communications equipment, and other operational support items. Additionally, equipment that supports community engagement efforts could include communication tools for outreach, facilities or infrastructure to facilitate discussions and collaboration with local communities. A comprehensive needs assessment will need to be completed to determine the specific equipment requirements based on operational gaps, local conditions, and the priorities identified in coordination with Mozambican counterparts.

1. Can the mentor role be filled by multiple individuals with complementary expertise, or is a single mentor required?

The mentor role can be filled by either a single individual or multiple individuals with complementary expertise. If applicants choose to utilize multiple individuals in the mentor role, they should remain consistent throughout the life of the award. Building strong, sustained relationships with Mozambican law enforcement counterparts is essential to this program's success, and continuity of personnel helps establish the trust and rapport necessary for effective mentoring.

1. Would it be deemed appropriate and a value add to engage other relevant security sector actors in the program in addition to the PRM?

Yes, it would be appropriate for applicants to engage other relevant security sector actors in the program in addition to the PRM. However, it is important that a primary focus of this award remains on developing the PRM's response capabilities.

1. Are official permission letters required at the time of submission, or only if needed during implementation?

Official permission letters from the Government of Mozambique are not required at the time of submission. Further discussions will take place once an implementer has been selected regarding outreach and any necessary permissions or agreements.

1. Are there preferred units within the PRM and “relevant law enforcement units” that should be the focus of technical assistance?

The PRM UIR is a primary unit that this program will work with. Additional units that could be included in coordination efforts include SERNIC and FADM. Applicants should design their programs with the PRM UIR as the central focus while considering how coordination with these other relevant security sector actors can support the overall objectives of strengthening response capabilities in Cabo Delgado.

1. Under Eligible Applicants, the NOFO notes that “For-profit organizations (only if allowed by appropriation)” – please can you confirm that for-profit organizations are eligible to apply (i.e. this has been confirmed as allowable by appropriation)?

Yes, for-profit organizations are eligible to apply for this opportunity. This has been confirmed as allowable by appropriation.

1. Is the Government of Mozambique (and related law enforcement agencies and authorities) aware of the program?

The U.S. Government maintains ongoing coordination with the Government of Mozambique on strengthening law enforcement training and collaboration in Cabo Delgado. Detailed discussions regarding the specific scope and implementation approach of this initiative will take place following the award selection.

1. Can “relevant military units” be included in program activities / benefit from program funding, or must program engagement solely be limited to coordination?

The primary purpose of this program is to work with PRM to develop their early warning, detection, and response capabilities. In order to do this effectively, it will require coordination and engagement with relevant military units. We encourage applicants to identify meaningful ways to collaborate with law enforcement and military units where such engagement would strengthen the overall program objectives and enhance PRM's operational effectiveness.

1. Are there “areas of shared strategic economic importance” that the US DOS would like to see prioritized within Cabo Delgado?

The areas of shared strategic economic importance that should be prioritized are the LNG in Cabo Delgado. The program should focus on strengthening early warning, detection, and response capabilities in proximity to these critical energy infrastructure sites.

1. For this NOFO, requirements around audit documents are not mentioned: please can you confirm whether a copy of the organization’s most recent audit (single or program audit) or the annual financial statement audit is required for submission?

Audit documentation is required for this program. Further audit-related requirements and documentation will be requested from the successful applicant in subsequent steps of the award process.

1. Required attachments include “Official permission letters, if required for program activities” – is the implementer required to gain approval from relevant governments/authorities/entities as part of the NOFO submission? Or are these reference letters for the organization / consortium?

Applicants are encouraged to use their own discretion to determine what is relevant and required for their specific proposal they’ve developed for consideration. Separately, with respect to the second question above, “Section 5. Attachments” of the NOFO notes “Letters of support from project partners describing the roles and responsibilities of each partner.”