RFP No 72038823R00007 USAID SLS.pdf

Issuance Date : June 1, 2023 Questions Due : June 25, 2023 at 8:00 am local Bangladesh time Closing Date and Time for Proposals : July 30, 2023 at 8:00 am local Bangladesh time

SUBJECT: Request for Proposals (RFP) No. 72038823R00007, USAID Safety and Logistics Support (SLS)

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Bangladesh is seeking proposals from qualified organizations interested in providing the services as described in this solicitation. USAID invites all interested and responsible organizations to submit offers in accordance with the requirements of this solicitation.

USAID anticipates awarding a single Cost-Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) Completion type Contract. The anticipated period of performance is approximately five years from the date of award (three base years, plus one two-year option period). The total estimated Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee for the performance of the work required hereunder, is $13,900,000 for the period of five years.

This procurement will be conducted under full and open competition procedures, pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) (48 CFR Chapter 1). The Government reserves the right to award a contract without discussions or the submission of final proposed revisions, based upon evaluation of the Offeror’s submitted technical and price information. Accordingly, the Offeror’s initial offer should contain its best terms for both price and technical proposal. Offerors should retain for their records a complete copy of their proposals for future reference.

If your organization decides to submit a proposal in response to this solicitation, it must be submitted in accordance with Section L of this RFP. Offerors must also carefully review Section M - Evaluation Factors. Proposals are to be submitted to USAID/Bangladesh no later than the closing date and time stated above, to the email address designated in Section L for receipt of proposals. If the proposal is received after the closing date and time, or if it is incomplete, it will not be accepted nor considered unless authorized by the Contracting Officer pursuant to FAR 15.208.

This RFP in no way obligates USAID to award a contract nor does it commit USAID to pay any costs incurred in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Award of a contract under this RFP is subject to availability of funds and other internal USAID approvals. Furthermore, USAID reserves the right to reject any and/or all offers if such action is considered to be in the best interest of the Government.

All questions, comments, and/or requests for clarifications must be sent in writing to Jerome Robinson, Jr. at jerrobinson@usaid.gov and Ahsan Rahman at marahman@usaid.gov, no later than the date and time indicated above.

This RFP can be viewed and downloaded from https://sam.gov. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes. Further, be aware that amendments to mailto:jerrobinson@usaid.gov mailto:marahman@usaid.gov https://sam.gov/content/home

RFP No. 72038823R00007, USAID Safety and Logistics Support (SLS) solicitations are occasionally issued and will be posted on the same website. USAID advises interested parties to regularly check the above websites for amendments.

Thank you for your interest and we look forward to your participation.

Sincerely, Jerome Robinson, Jr.

Contracting Officer, USAID/Bangladesh

Office of the Acquisition & Assistance C/O American Embassy, USAID/Bangladesh 6120 Dhaka Place

8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than item 7)

Jerome Robinson, Jr., Contracting Officer, USAID/Bangladesh, C/O American Embassy, Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and copies for furnishings the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in item 8, or if hand carried, in the depository located in until local time

(Hour) (Date)

CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

A. NAME B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS) C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

AREA CODE NUMBER EXTENSION

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

(X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S) (X) SEC. DESCRIPTION PAGE(S)

PART I - THE SCHEDULE PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

A SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM 3

I CONTRACT CLAUSES 60

B SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS 4 PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

C DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT 7

J LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 75

D PACKAGING AND MARKING 14 PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

E INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE 16

K

REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER

STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

F DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE 18

G CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA 27

L INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS 107

H SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS 31

M EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD 123

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within 180 calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the set opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

(See Section I, Clause No. 52.232-8)

10 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 20 CALENDAR DAYS (%) 30 CALENDAR DAYS (%) CALENDAR DAYS(%)

14. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated):

AMENDMENT NO. DATE AMENDMENT NO. DATE

15A. NAME AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

CODE FACILITY 16. NAME AND THE TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN

OFFER(Type or print)

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS IS

DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER SUCH

ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

17. SIGNATURE 18. OFFER DATE

AREA CODE NUMBER EXTENSION

AWARD (To be completed by Government)

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED 20. AMOUNT 21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL OPEN COMPETITION:

10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) 41 U.S.C. 3304(a) ( )

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN ITEM

(4 copies unless otherwise specified)

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7)

USAID/Bangladesh C/O, American Embassy

Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh

25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

USAID/Bangladesh, Office of Financial Management

American Embassy, Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

Jerome Robinson, Jr.

27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

28. AWARD DATE

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION STANDARD FORM 33 (REV. 6/2014)

Previous edition is unusable Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.214 (c)

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER RATING

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

PAGE OF PAGES

3 125

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

72038823R00007

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

SEALED BID

RFP

5. DATE ISSUED

6/1/2023

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY CODE

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND COST/PRICES

B.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance and services as described in detail in Section C, Statement of Work, for the implementation of the USAID Safety and Logistics Support (SLS) Contract.

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE

This is a cost-plus fixed fee (CPFF) completion contract. For the consideration set forth below, the Contractor shall perform all requirements of this contract in accordance with all terms and conditions as stated herein.

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

(a) For the base period, the Total Estimated Cost exclusive of Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Total Estimated Cost-Plus Fixed Fee, if any, for the base period is $[TBD].

(b) Within the estimated cost-plus fixed fee, if any, specified in paragraph (a) above, the amount currently obligated and available for reimbursement of allowable costs incurred by the Contractor and payment of fee, if any, for performance under this contract is $[TBD]. The Contractor shall not exceed the aforesaid obligated amount.

(c) Funds obligated hereunder are anticipated to be sufficient through [TBD]. Funding of this contract will be on an incremental basis, subject to the availability of funds.

(d) For option year 1 (year 4 of the contract), the Total Estimated Cost exclusive of Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Total Estimated Cost-Plus Fixed Fee, if any, for option year one is $[TBD].

(e) For option year 2 (year 5 of the contract), the Total Estimated Cost exclusive of Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Fixed Fee, if any, is $[TBD]. The Total Estimated Cost-Plus Fixed Fee, if any, for option year two is $[TBD].

B.4 CONTRACT BUDGET

(a) The following itemized budget sets forth the estimates for reimbursement of dollar costs for individual line items of cost, and the fixed fee: [TBD – to be filled in at the time of award.]

Base Period Option Period

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Total

Direct Costs

Indirect Costs

Total Estimated Cost

Fixed Fee

Total Estimated Cost-Plus Fixed Fee

(b) Without the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer pursuant to clause FAR 52.232-20, entitled “Limitation of Costs,” the Contractor shall not exceed the total estimated cost set forth in the budget. Without the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer pursuant to clause FAR 52.232-22 entitled “Limitation of Funds,” the Contractor shall not exceed the total obligated amount.

(c) The inclusion of any costs in the above budget does not obviate the requirement for prior approval by the Contracting Officer of cost items designated as requiring prior approval by any of the terms and conditions of this contract, including the applicable cost principles (see FAR § 52.216-7, “Allowable Cost and Payment”); nor, does it constitute a determination of allowability by the Contracting Officer of any item of cost, unless specifically stated elsewhere in this contract.

(d) The Contractor must not adjust the above line items without a written modification signed by the Contracting Officer.

(e) The Contractor must not bill any amounts against this Contract in excess of the amounts specified for each line item without the Contracting Officer’s prior authorization.

B.5 INDIRECT COST

FAR 52.216-7 “Allowable Cost and Payment” specifies that the indirect cost rates shall be established for each of the Contractor’s accounting periods which apply to this contract. Pending establishment of revised provisional or final indirect cost rates, allowable indirect costs shall be reimbursed on the basis of the following negotiated provisional or predetermined rates and the appropriate bases:

Description Rate Base Type Period

TBD % 1/ 1/ 1/

TBD % 2/ 2/ 2/

TBD % 3/ 3/ 3/

1/ Base of Application:

Type of Rate:

Period:

2/ Base of Application:

Type of Rate:

Period:3/ Base of Application:

Type of Rate:

Period

B.6 COST REIMBURSABLE

The U.S. dollar costs allowable shall be limited to reasonable, allocable, and necessary costs determined in accordance with FAR 52.216-7, “Allowable Cost and Payment,” FAR 52.216-8, “Fixed Fee,” FAR 52.232-20, “Limitation of Cost,” and FAR 52-232-22, “Limitation of Funds,” if applicable, and AIDAR 752.7003, “Documentation for Payment.”

B.7 CANCELLATION PROCEDURES

Per FAR 17.106-1(c) Cancellation Procedures, all program years except the first are subject to cancellation. The cancellation ceiling shall be established below for Years 2 -5 of the contract.

Cancellation Ceiling:

This is a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) completion type contract where the Contractor is authorized to be reimbursed for all costs which are allowable in accordance with FAR 52.216-7, “Allowable Costs and Payment”. Therefore, the Contractor is expected not to incur any costs which would have been amortized over the life of the contract should the contract be canceled in accordance with FAR 52.217-2.

B.8 FIXED FEE

(a) USAID/Bangladesh Paying Office ordinarily pays the Contractor a percentage of a fixed fee that directly corresponds to the percentage of allowable costs being paid. Two (2) exceptions to paying fixed fee in this manner apply:

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

(2) The clauses entitled "Allowable Cost and Payment" (FAR 52.216-7) and "Fixed Fee" (FAR 52.216-8) are incorporated into this contract. The terms and conditions of these clauses apply after total payments of fixed fee reach eighty-five percent (85%) of the total fixed fee.

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

[END OF SECTION B]

SECTION C - DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C1. TITLE

USAID SAFETY AND LOGISTIC SUPPORT (SLS) CONTRACT

C2. PURPOSE

This contract shall help advance the United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) high standards of programming by providing demand-driven safety and logistics services in areas including difficult to reach and hard to serve areas throughout Bangladesh where currently there are USAID funded activities.

The aim of this contract is to offer security and logistical support services, and monitoring & information management services to USAID/Bangladesh. The services shall include functioning as a security data repository, provide transportation services and other logistical and administrative assistance to facilitate monitoring and evaluation site visits, including short-term visits by VIPs, U.S government officials and visitors to the targeted regions. Services include providing alternative transportation options, particularly for accessing hard to reach locations.

The Contractor shall maintain current situational analysis, apprise USAID staff and implementing partners of security-related concerns in areas with United States Government (USG) programming, and through logistical and administrative support, assist USAID staff to monitor and/or launch new activities.

C3. BACKGROUND

USAID/Bangladesh manages the largest portfolio in Asia with an annual operating year budget of $200 million and an additional $120 million for humanitarian assistance. There is considerable country-wide travel by Mission staff to monitor activities in democracy, human rights, and governance; economic growth; education; health; humanitarian assistance, and disaster risk reduction. The Mission is also managing one of the Agency’s largest humanitarian assistance response portfolios in the Cox’s Bazar (CXB) region.

The Mission is currently implementing approximately 75 activities nationwide. Monitoring, evaluation and learning from these activities is not only required per the Agency’s regulations and policies, it also informs the Mission’s current and future interventions. According to the Mission Notice 2023-001, Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), Agreement Officer Representatives (AORs) should conduct at least one site visit every six months, or as often as necessary. Site visits assess if an activity is on track to achieve its goals and to check compliance against award requirements. They generate learning opportunities, enhance strategic collaboration, and help staff to understand implementation challenges and successes.

Since the influx of Rohingya refugees in 2017, the CXB region has been a particular area of security concern. For example, conflict between the Rohingya refugees and the host communities has escalated in that region. An anti-NGO sentiment has taken root in that region as well, mainly because the host community people believe that NGOs provide more support and assistance to

Rohingya refugees than members of the community. Moreover, the refugees are also affecting the local labor market. For example, the daily rate for refugee labor is cheaper than that of a local resident who may also be dependent on daily labor for food and other basic family needs. The conflict between refugees and residents; as well as the presence of insurgents inside and outside of the camp, poses a clear threat to peace, stability, and the implementation of USAID activities within the CXB region.

The Mission has provided humanitarian assistance in the region for several decades. Prior to the influx of refugees, USAID assistance was largely focused on supporting the local communities.

USAID expanded its assistance efforts, specifically focusing on food security, environmental conservation, livelihoods, and humanitarian assistance to communities impacted by the influx of Rohingya refugees. Due to this expansion of assistance, the number of field trips has increased to monitor activity implementation. The geographical location of CXB makes it very challenging logistically to send vehicles there from Dhaka.

USAID has activities throughout Bangladesh that are just as challenging as CXB. Many of the USAID funded activity’s sites are very remote and located in hard-to-reach areas. In addition, activity sites are spread out from each other. Safety, and logistical resources are very limited and could be further exacerbated by natural disasters and/or potential civil unrest. Based on data that the Executive Office gathered for the period of January 2019 to November 2022 (including COVID-19), USAID field trips were broken out as follows: 44% to CXB, 15% to Chattogram, 1% to Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), (accessible from CXB), 20% to Khulna, 7% to Sylhet, 5% Rangpur, 5% Barishal, and 3% to Cumilla.

C4. REQUIREMENTS/TASK

Map of the activities by Technical Office in Bangladesh Logistic Services

This contract shall provide a range of support services for USAID, USG Officials and staff, and VIP visitors in relation to USG programs in Bangladesh. In particular, the following services are involved:

Logistical support services are not limited to but shall include the following:

1. Facilitation and logistical assistance in organizing visits to project sites, meetings, workshops, and conferences, including providing short term and limited office space in the contractor’s facilities.

2. Maintaining adequate and operable land mobile radio communications systems that meet RSO approval in all USG vehicles and maintain it.

3. Transportation services for visits by VIPs, USG and USAID officials and visitors, and field trips of USAID staff, as requested and as appropriate, including but not limited to vehicles, helicopters and boats etc.

4. Vetting all drivers to ensure that the required experience and qualifications are met, including passing all the security requirements established by the RSO and the COR.

5. Maintenance of a fleet of armored and unarmored vehicles.

6. Provision of logistical assistance in the event of natural disasters or displacement due to conflict situations, and

7. Other related logistical services, as described in Section under Contractor Tasks.

Security support services are not limited to but shall include the following:

1. Provision of and the arrangement for appropriate security for visits by VIPs, USG and USAID officials and visitors, USAID staff.

2. Conduct and dissemination of regular security assessments and other security information for USAID and other USG Agencies upon request of the COR.

3. Provision of security-related services such as the coordination of escorts during visits of USG officials during visits to conflict-affected areas in and around the targeted regions.

4. Coordination with Embassy Regional Security Office (RSO), U.S. Military and Government of Bangladesh (GoB) security forces at the district, sub-district and upazila levels.

5. Monitor local print and electronic media for potential security-related news and keep the COR informed about any changes in the security situation that could affect USAID travel and project implementation work for our implementing partners to a specific site or location within Bangladesh.

6. Monitor local news, track security incidents by location, date, and time. The contractor will prepare daily, weekly, and monthly situation reports and share them with USAID partner liaison security office (PLSO). The reports may include armed conflict, terrorism, crime, civil unrest, hazard etc. that may impact successful delivery of USAID funded programs. The PLSO may disseminate those reports to other implementing partners for situational awareness, revision of security plans and security posture.

Monitoring and Information Management services are not limited to but shall include the following:

1. Provide logistical support to facilitate monitoring field visits to on-going USAID projects in priority areas.

2. Maintenance of a GIS-based database to serve as a repository of security information, USAID-assisted project sites, and other information needed in the provision of logistics services.

Contractor Tasks

The Contractor shall complete the following tasks:

Logistical Support:

1. The Contractor must organize visits to various USAID-supported activities for USAID and State Department officials, and other USG visitors. This can include, but is not limited to, setting up appointments with key/knowledgeable individuals; making hotel arrangements; providing transportation arrangements; identifying secure meeting locations; or other logistical needs. The performance of this task will also involve coordination with other key personnel of USAID projects operating in areas where visits are planned.

2. The Contractor must provide facilitation and logistical assistance in organizing USAID/USG events at the direction of the USAID Contract Officer’s Representative (COR). Examples of USAID/USG events can include, but are not limited to, meetings, workshops, conferences, and handover ceremonies between USAID/USG, implementing partners and stakeholders, including local government officials, civil society organization, business organizations, people’s organizations, women’s groups, community leaders, and other partners.

3. The Contractor shall be responsible for managing and maintaining a fleet of vehicles (armored and unarmored) that would need to be dispatched for regular visits conducted by USAID staff, VIPs, and other USG officials.

4. The Contractor shall be responsible for facilitating and coordinating other modes of transportation to areas that are not accessible by motor vehicle. This includes but is not limited to arranging helicopter flights, boat, etc.

5. The Contractor must provide logistical support for USAID technical monitoring and evaluation teams, disaster assessments, and humanitarian assistance.

Monitoring and Information Management Services1

1. The Contractor must maintain a GIS-based database management system that will serve as the repository of security information, location of USAID project sites in Bangladesh as well as other information needed in the provision of logistics services. In developing this database, the Contractor must coordinate with the various USAID Implementing Partners (IPs). The information

To support the USAID/Bangladesh Information Management needs, the Contractor must provide information management services, systems, and other resources that help to effectively manage the demand on USAID/Bangladesh for information and information products. Information gathered will enable

USAID/Bangladesh and their Implementing Partners to be more responsive to challenges in program implementation as well as providing information for the many data calls it receives with accurate and consistent data necessary for reports and briefing materials.

must be readily available to USAID/Bangladesh as well as other qualified stakeholders and IPs.

The Contractor must outline plans demonstrating what steps they will take to safeguard and secure security information to prevent accidental or deliberate information leakage beyond USG needs.

2. The contractor will effectively collect, synthesize and consolidate information from diverse sources to identify possible future safety and security concerns to share with USAID to make informed decisions before planning a visit, particularly in remote and hard to reach locations.

Increase in Costs and/or Services.

In addition to the SOW as it appears, as the implementation of this contract progresses it may be necessary to add additional effort. Examples of changes would include but are not limited to an increase in number of USG trips to the project areas; increase security burden if the current operating environment deteriorates; or increased level of monitoring activity changes. Any modifications to the terms and conditions of the contract shall only be accomplished by the Contracting Officer.

C.5 MONITORING LOGISTIC SERVICES

The Mission, through the Partner Liaison Security Office (PLSO) Office, will continually monitor and review the performance of the contractor and the effectiveness of the contract. This review will permit USAID senior management to assess whether this contract is being implemented as planned, benefiting USAID funded projects/activities being implemented in Bangladesh, and if the services are achieving expected outcomes.

Other Considerations

1. Disaster Response: USAID supports the Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) in providing humanitarian assistance to vulnerable families and communities affected by disasters.

The assistance includes emergency and early recovery programs implemented through partner organizations. USAID also mobilizes its various implementing partners to assist in delivering humanitarian assistance. Hence, project implementation frameworks of partners are encouraged to have the agility to dispatch resources, re-align budgets and support the rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance to disaster affected areas and vulnerable populations, and help expedite social and economic recovery. The scope and deliverables expected from the re-alignment of project resources will be mutually agreed by USAID/Bangladesh and implementing partners.

2. Geographic Information System (GIS) and Standard Property Rights Clauses - It is necessary that USAID archive activity-related data to ensure that at the conclusion of the award, the Agency will still have access to the data. Data that are collected and produced under the activity must be stored in a database management system or other structured data file format.

This data will be provided in whole to USAID for further analysis and dissemination if relevant in accordance with the Rights in Data clause 52.227-14 (contract clause) and 52.227-15 (solicitation clause)

3. Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) and Cox’s Bazar Activities: In some conflict-affected areas of Bangladesh, implementation is constrained due to the lack of good governance and presence of criminal, insurgent and/or terrorist groups. As such, the Contractor may need to coordinate and/or collaborate with Bangladesh Police, Army, local Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) and other like-minded donors and international NGO. As needed, other USAID implementing partners will also coordinate with the contractor in arranging logistics and security support for USAID staff, U.S. Embassy or U.S. Government colleagues that travel to the CHT and CXB regions.

4. USAID Management: The principal responsibility for management of the contract will lie with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) within the Executive Office (EXO). For effective communication, the Contracting Officer, Executive Officer, and the Embassy’s Regional Security Officer (RSO) will be kept abreast of developments in the implementation and key issues affecting this contract. However, only the USAID COR acting on authority of the Contracting Officer (CO) can task the contractor to provide services. All requests for logistics support must come through the USAID COR. Any activities not receiving USAID COR approval will be unallowable. Please also note that the specific authorities delegated to the cognizant COR by the CO are detailed in the COR’s Delegation Letter from the cognizant CO. Anything outside these authorities are unallowable.

C.6 DELIVERABLES

To contribute to achieving the higher-level goal of increased logistical capacity and resources, peace and stability and specific objectives and tasks detailed above.

Level of Effort and Support

At the minimum, 8 (2 armored & 6 unarmored) vehicles are expected to be in the fleet of this Logistics contract. It is estimated that 4 vehicles (2 armored and 2 unarmored) will be kept ready to dispatch at the main office in CXB, 2 unarmored vehicles at each sub-offices in Dhaka and Jashore respectively.

Based on similar USAID projects in other areas of Bangladesh, we estimate between 200-250 trips plus 5 VIP trips/Annually (USG officials) are anticipated during the duration of this contract, with many of these trips being supported by the U.S. Embassy motor pool, and supplemental support provided by the contractor.

CHART 1-ESTIMATED TOTAL MEL TRIPS TO CXB AND OTHER AREAS BY TECHNICAL OFFICES.2

USAID/Bangladesh Annual Field Visit Requirement Calculations

Office

Total monitoring trip in a year

Monitoring Trips per quarter

Non-monitoring trips per year

Non-monitoring trips per quarter

Total per year

Total per quarter

OPHN 36 9 12 3 48 12

HAO 20 5 12 3 32 8

EG 60 15 12 3 72 18

2 monitoring trips annually per activity and 3 non monitoring trips per quarter for each office (except EXO).

● The Mission’s Office of Acquisition & Assistance, while not specifically listed, will attend as part of the respective offices, and may conduct additional trips as the cognizant A/CO for the activity deems necessary.

● The non-monitoring trips include VIP visits, scoping assessments, workshops, meetings etc.

● Field support activities considered for BHA activities HAO supports (total HAO Mission funded activities is actually 5)

● For EXO, the upcoming logistic hub has been taken into account

● For PRO, the 3 upcoming activities have been considered (New MEL platform, Gender and Digital) and 3 non-monitoring trips for DOC.

DRG 28 7 12 3 40 10

Education 8 2 12 3 20 5

EXO 4 1 .0 0 4 1

PRO 4 1 12 3 16 4

Total 160 40 72 18 232 58

Although the level of effort for each individual field trip will be determined at the time of planning and will be customized according to individual field trip’s scope,purpose and location.

As an example, a VIP visit may need at least three (03) drivers and one (01) logistics coordinator to conduct a successful field visit in Cox's Bazar or other areas of Bangladesh. However, the contractor may use its experience to ensure the required number of cars and chauffeurs as it seems necessary.

In addition to providing logistics, security data collection and other administrative services, the Contractor must provide the following to the COR:

1. Quarterly Reports, to be determined by USAID.

2. Facilitate the gathering and dissemination of safety and security information to other IPs and interested stakeholders.

3. In coordination with PLSO, the Contractor will disseminate information to IPs for use in developing safety and security plans based upon data collected.

4. Bi-weekly security activity and analysis reports, or as requested.

5. Maintain a notification system, timely alerts using various communication methods i.e.:

email, SMS, texting etc. and actionable recommendations, as appropriate, should problems be identified in surveillance and reconnaissance work.

6. Maps detailing the specific locations of USAID projects in Bangladesh.

7. Final report that documents lessons learned and recommendations for future actions in implementing the above Contractor tasks.

8. Additional services may be added or expanded as the contract develops. The COR with the support of the CO will negotiate additional services.

[END OF SECTION C]

SECTION D - BRANDING AND MARKING

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING

(a) It is USAID policy that USAID-financed commodities and shipping containers, and project construction sites and other project locations be suitably marked with the USAID emblem.

Shipping containers are also to be marked with the last five digits of the USAID financing document number. As a rule, marking is not required for raw materials shipped in bulk (such as coal, grain, etc.), or for semi-finished products which are not packaged.

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

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

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

D.2 BRANDING STRATEGY

The Contractor shall comply with the requirements of the policy directives and required procedures outlined in USAID Automated Directive System (ADS) 320.3.2 “Branding and Marking in USAID Direct Contracting” which can be found at https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/320;

and USAID “Graphics Standards Manual” available at http://www.usaid.gov/branding, or any successor branding policy.

The Branding Strategy for this contract is as follows:

Objective: To provide prospective Offerors with areas to be addressed in the development of the Logistics Services in Bangladesh Branding and Marking Plans to deliver the message that the assistance is “From the American People”.

Activity name: The name of the activity is “USAID Safety and Logistical Support (SLS)”. In every public event or document and in discussions with the Government of Bangladesh and other counterparts from the private sector and civil society, the Contractor shall identify the activity as the “USAID Safety and Logistical Support (SLS)” on each reference.

Branding: The branding strategy will incorporate the message that the assistance is “From the American People” and is sponsored by USAID. USAID policy is to require exclusive branding and marking in all its direct contracts.

Positioning: Publicity materials and communications shall clearly reflect the notion that this activity is provided by the American People through USAID with close collaboration and support of the Government of Bangladesh. No other organizations will be acknowledged publicly in connection with the Safely and Logistics Services in Bangladesh contract.

Visibility: As this is a services and goods provision contract, USAID seeks a minimal level of visibility that will be primarily focused entirely through marking equipment, facilities, reports, https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/320 http://www.usaid.gov/branding and associated publications with the USAID logo/identity according to USAID branding and marking guidelines.

Anticipated Elements of the Branding and Marking Plan: Deliverables to be marked include products, equipment and inputs delivered; places where activities are carried out; external public communications, studies, reports, publications, and informative and promotional products; and workshops, conferences, fairs and any such events. Studies, reports, publications, Web sites, and all informational and promotional products not authored, reviewed, or edited by USAID must contain a provision substantially as follows:

“This study/report/Website (specify) is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID.) The contents of this (specify) are the sole responsibility of (name of organization) and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.”

Approval Procedures: In carrying out the approved Branding and Marking Plans, the Contractor shall seek approval from the COR for all public and media documents, speeches, and event preparation forms at least three (3) weeks prior to the implementation date of the subject activity. Specific waivers of branding implementation and marking require Contracting Officer’s prior written approval.

[END OF SECTION D]

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING FAR SOLICITATION PROVISION INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The solicitation provision pertinent to this section is hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) per the provision at FAR “52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE” under Section I of this solicitation. The solicitation provision full text may be accessed electronically at this address:

http://www.acquisition.gov/far/

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.204-14

52.246-3

52.246-5

SERVICE CONTRACT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

INSPECTION OF SUPPLIES – COST REIMBURSEMENT INSPECTION OF

SERVICES – COST-REIMBURSEMENT

OCT 2016

MAY 2001

APR 1984

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

USAID inspection and acceptance of services, reports and other required performance objectives or outputs will take place at USAID/Bangladesh; or at any other location where the services are performed and reports and performance objectives or outputs are produced or submitted.

The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) listed in Section G has been delegated authority to inspect and accept all services, reports and required deliverables or outputs, if specified in the contract.

E.3 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The COR will conduct period performance reviews to monitor the progress of work and the achievement of results and/or completion of major components under this contract. USAID will assess the Contractor’s progress in implementation of its work and success in meeting benchmarks, as defined in the Activity MEL plan. The information provided and exchanged through quarterly progress reviews will form the basis for assessing and reporting on Contractor performance.

The Contractor must submit to the COR all information and appropriate documentation necessary to demonstrate and support the achievement of results and milestones. The Contractor must also provide an explanation and/or justification if any milestones have not been achieved according to the schedule.

In addition to the technical performance requirements stated in Section C above, the Contractor will be held fully accountable for responsible management of this contract. Of particular concern are the following:

1) Satisfactory performance record, which includes effective independent cost control;

2) Amounts of cost overruns and underruns, and reasons for them;

http://www.acquisition.gov/far/

3) Compliance with terms and conditions of contract, particularly areas where the Contracting Officer’s approval or consent is needed prior to execution of action, purchase of equipment, subcontract, formalization of constructive changes, timeliness of reports and other deliverables;

4) Task completion versus schedule completion date as stated in the contract Annual Work Plan with Performance Milestones, with explanation for completions delays, and,

5) Termination for default or convenience.

[END OF SECTION E]

SECTION F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 NOTICE LISTING FAR SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The solicitation provisions pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) per the provision at FAR “52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE” under Section I of this solicitation. The solicitation provision’s full text may be accessed electronically at this address:

http://www.acquisition.gov/far

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER AUG 1989

52.242-15 ALTERNATE I APR 1984

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The estimated period of performance for this contract is five years – a three-year Base Period and one 2-year Option Period – from the effective date of the award.

(a) Base Period (3 years): [To be filled in at the time of award]

(b) Option Year 1: [To be filled in at the time of award]

(c) Option Year 2: [To be filled in at the time of award]

[Note to Offerors: This language will be added to the award if it is based on the Foreign Assistance waiver. If the apparently successful offeror does not require a waiver, this additional language will be deleted from the award document.]

The period of performance of this contract is five (5) years from the date of contract award, subject to the conditions set forth in Section H.43; FAR Part 4.21 Prohibition On Contracting for Certain Covered Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (Section

889) (January 2021).

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The place of performance is Bangladesh.

F.4 F.4 KEY PERSONNEL

(a) The key personnel that the Contractor must furnish for the performance of this contract are as follows:

Position Title

1. Chief of Party

2. Operations Manager

(b) key personnel identified above are considered essential to the work being performed under this contract. The Contractor must remain responsible for providing such key personnel for full-http://www.acquisition.gov/far time performance for the term of this contract unless otherwise agreed to by the Contracting Officer.

(c) Failure to provide the key personnel designated above may be considered non-performance unless such failure is beyond the control, and through no fault or negligence, of the Contractor.

(d) The Contractor must immediately notify the Contracting Officer and the COR of any key personnel’s departure and the reasons thereof.

(e) The Contractor must take steps to immediately rectify this situation and will propose a substitute candidate for each vacated position along with a budget impact statement in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on the program.

(f) The Contractor must not replace any of the key personnel without advance written consent of the Contracting Officer or his designee.

(g) USAID reserves the right to adjust the level of key personnel during the performance of this contract.

(h) All key personnel must be full-time, located in Bangladesh, and employed by the prime contractor. The Contractor must utilize the most appropriate and cost-effective staffing mix to achieve the objectives of this project. To support the Journey to Self-Reliance, the Contractor will identify and develop Bangladeshi talent and expertise in this sector.

(i) All key personnel must be able to communicate in Bangla and fluently in English.

(j) The descriptions of the major responsibilities and qualification requirements for the key personnel are the following:

Chief of Party

Responsibilities: The Chief of Party shall be responsible for the following:

● Responsible for the overall contract performance and management and successful execution of the contract.

● Serve as principal institutional and primary liaison with USAID and key stakeholders.

● Manage staff and ensure activity meets stated goals and reporting requirements.

● Overall responsible for the quality assurance of the services provided to USG and that all deliverables are submitted to USAID/Bangladesh on time.

Preferred Qualifications:

● Must have experience with management and/or administration of comparable size and complexity to USAID Safety and Logistical Support Contract.

● Knowledgeable on the current security and socio-political situation in Bangladesh.

● At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience that are necessary and required to perform the statement of work.

● Demonstrated understanding in the areas of safety, security, and risk management.

Ability to collect and analyze information and convert these into required actions or options for consideration of USAID/Bangladesh and the Regional Security Office (RSO) of U.S. Embassy Dhaka, Bangladesh.

● Proven ability to prepare high quality reports, assessments and security briefing notes in clear, concise and compelling formats, verifiable writing, analytical and public speaking skills in the field of security risks and crisis management in an effective manner to audiences at all levels internally and externally.

● Substantial relevant experience in working and liaising with communities, government civilian agencies and security forces.

● Demonstrated ability to manage, and work well with technical and administrative support staff. Leadership, critical decision making, managing decisions, communication, teamwork, and ability to work effectively in a socio-culturally and gender-sensitive environment.

Operations Manager

The Operations Manager will work under the direct guidance of the COP. The Offeror must identify and propose the relevant qualifications and responsibilities to ensure the successful operations of the services as defined in the Statement of Work (SOW).

F.5 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

The COR and the CO will jointly conduct evaluation of the Contractor’s overall performance, which will form the basis for the Contractor’s permanent performance record with regard to this contract as required under the FAR 42.15.

Evaluation of the Contractor’s performance will be conducted in accordance with the Contractor’s overall performance toward achievement of objectives in Section C, and provision of deliverables in Section F and the Contractor’s compliance with all other terms and conditions of the contract.

The Contractor’s performance will be evaluated annually and at contract completion, utilizing at a minimum, the following factors:

a) Technical (Quality of products and services)

b) Cost Control

c) Schedule/Timeliness

d) Management or business relations

e) Small business contracting (as applicable)

f) Others (as applicable) (e.g. late payments to subcontractors, trafficking violations, tax delinquency, failure to report in accordance with contract terms and conditions, defective cost or pricing data, terminations, suspension and debarments)

During the period of performance, the COR will conduct periodic performance reviews to monitor the progress of work, determine if programmatic adjustments or adaptations were conducted, and if the required results are achieved. A variety of mechanisms will be used to monitor the progress and success of this award and the Contractor’s performance in achieving agreed results including:

● Monthly meetings with USAID;

● Review of Contractor’s scheduled reports (which include updates to the Work Plan, fiscal expenditures and accruals, progress reports, consultancy reports, etc.);

● Host government official and other counterparts feedback;

● USAID/Bangladesh personnel site visits;

● Periodic impact assessments and evaluations;

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

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

F.6 MANAGEMENT OF CONTRACT

The Contractor shall provide the management necessary to complete all the requirements of this contract, including cost and quality control, within the period of performance.

All work under this contract must be completed within the period of performance. The following contract management processes and reporting will be required. All reports indicated below must be submitted to USAID/Bangladesh in English language. The following processes and reporting may be amended or changed as agreed upon by the COR and Contractor. Specifically, the following may be amended by the COR in consultation with the Contractor based on the annual reporting guidance by USAID.

● Start-up. Within 15 (15) calendar days of the contract’s effective date, the COR and the Contractor will meet to review the requirements of the contract in order to plan for the first three months of implementation which includes: (1) establishing a project office in Bangladesh if necessary; and (2) staffing plans.

● Work plans. The contractor shall provide yearly work plans that detail the work to be accomplished during the upcoming year. The first work plan period will be adjusted to sync with USAID’s fiscal year.

● USAID and Contractor management meetings. The COR and Contractor will organize a meeting schedule that will focus on routine administration of the Contract (which includes fiscal management and procurement administration as well as identification and resolution of implementation issues during the Contract period). The completion of meeting minutes will be the responsibility of the Contractor and will include a summary of key decisions made between USAID and the Contractor and follow up actions required.

The meeting minutes will be submitted to the COR within two (2) calendar days after the conclusion of each monthly meeting. The Contract and COR will agree on meeting minutes format. These meeting minutes will be part of the official USAID management files for the Contract. Depending on the issues or subjects to be discussed at any of the weekly meetings, meeting participants may vary. The location of the meeting will be determined by the Contractor and COR and may vary throughout the life of the Contract.

F.7 REPORTS/DELIVERABLES/OUTPUTS

In addition to providing the services described in Section C, and in accordance with AIDAR 752.242-70, Periodic Progress…