Amendment_1_RFP_SOL-674-15-000028.pdf

SOL-674-15-000028

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY CODE 8. ADDRESS OFFER TO (If other than Item 7)

ORDER UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

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

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

SEALED BID (IFB)

5. DATE ISSUED

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED RATING PAGE OF PAGES

1 92

C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

EXT.NUMBERAREA CODE

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS)A. NAME

10. FOR

INFORMATION

CALL:

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.

(Date)(Hour) local timeuntildepository located in copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if hand carried, in the

SOLICITATION

9. Sealed offers in original and

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

INSTRS., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

CONTRACT CLAUSES

PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

I

J

K

L

M SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

PACKAGING AND MARKING

DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSESPART I - THE SCHEDULE

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

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

18. OFFER DATE17. SIGNATURE

SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE.

IS DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE - ENTER

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS

EXT.NUMBERAREA CODE

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER

(Type or print)AND

ADDRESS

OF

OFFEROR

CODE FACILITY

16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER15A. NAME

DATEAMENDMENT NO.DATEAMENDMENT NO.

and related documents numbered and dated):

amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of

14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AMENDMENTS

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

(See Section I, Clause No. 52.232.8)

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

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 price set opposite each item, delivered at the

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within ______________ calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted

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

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror)

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

28. AWARD DATE

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

CODE 24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7)

ITEM

(4 copies unless otherwise specified)

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

41 U.S.C. 253 (c) ( 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c) (

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION20. AMOUNT19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED

AWARD (To be completed by government)

CODE

REQ-674-15-00029805/28/2015

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USAID/SA RAAO

Regional Acquisition and Assistance USAID/Southern Africa 100 Totius Street P.O. Box 43 Groenkloof 0027 Pretoria, South Africa

1000 LT

Fatima Dos Santos 271 7 fdossantos@usaid.gov

245-2216

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PAGE(S)

Michael Ashkouri

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

Previous edition is unusable

STANDARD FORM 33 (Rev. 9-97)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.214(c)

Request for Proposal (RFP) SOL-674-15-000028 Harmonized Seed Regulations in the Southern Africa Development Community

Table of Contents

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES/PRICES

B.1 PURPOSE

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE AND SERVICES

B.3 ESTIMATED COST AND FIXED FEE AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

B.4 INDIRECT COSTS

B.5 COST REIMBURSABLE

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1 Background C.2 Scope C.3 Results C.4 Coordination with host country, other projects and other donors C.5 Place of Performance C.6 Personnel C.7 Monitoring and Evaluation

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

D.2 BRANDING POLICY

D.3 BRANDING STRATEGY

D.4 MARKING

D.5 FEED THE FUTURE BRANDING AND MARKING

SECTION E – INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE20

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE21

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

F.4 PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

F.5 KEY PERSONNEL

F.6 REPORTS AND DELIVERABLES

SECTION G – CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 TECHNICAL DIRECTION AND DESIGNATION OF RESPONSIBLE USAID

OFFICIALS

G.2 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S AUTHORITY

G.3 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICE

G.4 CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE (COR)

G.5 TECHNICAL DIRECTIONS/RELATIONSHIP WITH USAID

G.6 ACCEPTANCE AND APPROVAL

G.7 PAYMENT AND INVOICES

G.8 ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

SECTION H – SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

H.2 CONTRACTOR’S STAFF SUPPORT AND ADMINISTRATIVE AND LOGISTICS

ARRANGEMENTS

H.3 AUTHORIZED GEOGRAPHIC CODE

H.4 AUTHORIZED WORK WEEK

H.5 EXECUTIVE ORDER ON TERRORISM FINANCING

H.6 BUSINESS CLASS TRAVEL

H.7 GRANTS UNDER CONTRACT (GUC)

H.8 FOREIGN GOVERNMENT DELEGATIONS TO INTERNATIONAL

CONFERENCES (JAN 2002)

H.9 CONSENT TO SUBCONTRACT

H.10 REPORTING OF FOREIGN TAXES (JULY 2007)

H.11 NONDISCRIMINATION (JUNE 2012)

H.12 USAID-Financed Third-party Web Sites (August 2013)

H.13 CONFERENCE PLANNING AND REQUIRED APPROVALS (AUGUST 2013) .. 36

H.14 USAID IMPLEMENTING PARTNER NOTICES (IPN) PORTAL FOR ACQUISITION

(JULY 2014)

H.15 SUBMISSION OF DATASETS TO THE DEVELOPMENT DATA LIBRARY (DDL)

(OCTOBER 2014)

H.16 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE (22 CFR 216)

H.17 USAID DISABILITY POLICY (DEC 2004)

PART II – CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

I.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE43

I.2 52.204-1 Approval of Contract (DEC 1989) I.3 52.216-24 Limitation of Government Liability (APR 1984)

I.4 FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

I.5 AIDAR 752.245-70 Government property—UsAID reporting requirements (jul 1997)47

I.6 AIDAR 725.7003 DOCUMENTATION FOR PAYMENT (NOV 1998)

I.7 752.252-2 AIDAR Clauses Incorporated By Reference (MAR 2015)

PART III- LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, & OTHER ATTACHMENTS

SECTION J – LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K – REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, AND OTHER

STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

K.1 52.203-11 Certification and Disclosure Regarding Payments to Influence Certain Federal

Transactions (SEP 2007) K.2 52.204-3 Taxpayer Identification (OCT 1998) K.3 52.204-8 Annual Representations and Certifications (DEC 2014) K.4 52.209-5 Certification Regarding Responsibility Matters (APR 2010) K.5 52.209-7 Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (JUL 2013) K.6 52.222-22 Previous Contracts and Compliance Reports (FEB 1999) K.7 52.222-25 Affirmative Action Compliance (APR 1984) K.8 52.222-38 Compliance with Veterans' Employment Reporting Requirements (SEP 2010)

K.9 52.225-25 Prohibition on Contracting with Entities Engaging in Certain Activities or

Transactions Relating to Iran-Representation and Certifications (DEC 2012) K.10 52.230-1Cost Accounting Standards Notices and Certification (May 2012) K.11 52.230-7 Proposal Disclosure—Cost Accounting Practice Changes (Apr 2005)

K.12 AGREEMENT ON, OR EXCEPTIONS TO, TERMS AND CONDITIONS

K.13 AUTHORIZED NEGOTIATORS

K.14 SIGNATURE

SECTION L –INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFEROR

L.1 NOTICE LISTING SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY

REFERENCE

L.2 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

L.3 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEPT 2006)

L.4 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

L.5 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO THE OFFEROR

L.6 SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

L.7 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE TECHNICAL PROPOSAL73

L.8 INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE COST/BUSINESS PROPOSAL

SECTION M: TECHNICAL EVALUATION CRITERIA

M.1 GENERAL INFORMATION

M.2 TECHNICAL EVALUATION CRITERIA

M.3 COST EVALUATION

M.4 CONTRACTING WITH SMALL BUSINESS CONCERNS AND DISADVANTAGED

ENTERPRISES

M.5 DETERMINATION OF THE COMPETITIVE RANGE

M.6 SOURCE SELECTION

PART I – THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B – SUPPLIES OR SERVICES/PRICES

B.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance to implement the Harmonized Seed Regulations (HSR) in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC). The HSR will allow seed trade across the region, integrating smaller and isolated national seed markets into one larger SADC market for seeds. This will increase availability of new improved varieties and high-quality seeds of targeted crops in Feed the Future focus countries. The HSR are part of a package of regional policy coherence to improve agricultural productivity and food and nutrition security.

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE AND SERVICES

One (1) Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) Completion Type Contract, for a total period of performance of five years will be awarded under this solicitation. The Contractor shall perform the services detailed under Section C of this solicitation. It is expected that the contract will run until September 2020.

B.3 ESTIMATED COST AND FIXED FEE AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

(a) The estimated cost for the performance of the work required hereunder, exclusive of fixed fee, if any, is: $TBD. The estimated fee is $TBD. The estimated cost plus fixed fee, if any, is

$TBD.

(b) USAID/Southern Africa intends to award one contract for a five year period with the overall ceiling price $TBD.

(c) 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 hereunder is TBD.

(d) Funds obligated hereunder are anticipated to be sufficient through TBD.

(e) The Contractor shall not exceed the aforesaid obligated amount unless authorized by the Contracting Officer pursuant to the clause of this contract entitled "Limitation of Funds" (FAR 52.232.22).

B.4 INDIRECT COSTS

Pending the establishment of a 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 appropriate bases:

Description Period Rate Base

- Description or type of rate indicated as a percentage, e.g. G&A

- Period, e.g. CY 2013

- Base, e.g. Direct Labor for Labor Overhead

B.5 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” and AIDAR 752.7003, “Documentation for Payment.”

[END OF SECTION B]

SECTION C – DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

Performance Work Statement

Harmonized Seed Regulations in the SADC Region

C.1 BACKGROUND

Southern Africa has failed to achieve the agricultural productivity transition that has occurred in other developing regions, such as Asia. The region remains a net importer of most agricultural products. Malnutrition and food insecurity remain at high levels, with child underweight rates greater than 26% in nearly all SADC Member States. Seed is a key input in agricultural production. However, the SADC seed sector is characterized by weak seed production and distribution systems; inadequate supply of quality seed; lack of access to improved germ plasm;

weak entrepreneurship; women’s limited access to, and control over, productive resources; and inadequate implementation of seed policies and international and regional agreements and conventions. Farmers have largely not benefited from improved seed technologies and innovations due to a lack of localized crop breeding and dependable seed delivery systems. As a result, crop yields in most SADC Member States have remained one-third of those in other developing countries. Whereas some countries are developing seed systems, seed quality is low and seed technologies are not shared among SADC Member States. A regional approach to encourage public and private sector investment in seed production and trading would give farmers more reliable and affordable access to high-quality seeds.

Many SADC Member States have rigid seed variety release requirements and seed certification standards, creating risks and barriers to trade of local seed varieties in domestic and cross-border markets. New varieties undergo lengthy testing and release procedures, which vary by country.

Variations in national standards for seed certification, quality and disease control complicate seed trade among SADC Member States. These regulations discourage private sector competition and impose a heavy burden on public sector agriculture research systems. Current seed regulations not only impede regional seed trade but hamper the development of new seed technologies and varieties and access to high-quality seeds, especially for smallholder farmers with limited resources and knowledge. After many years of discussion, SADC Member States have agreed to harmonize seed regulations. The HSR establish common procedures for crop variety testing, registration and release; seed certification and quality assurance based on internationally recognized standards of the International Union for Protection of New Plant Varieties (UPOV) and International Seed Testing Association (ISTA); and quarantine and phytosanitary measures for disease control based on common pest lists for seed inspections.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for implementing the HSR is in place and according to the SADC Treaty, SADC agreements can be implemented when two-thirds of the fifteen Member States sign the agreement. The HSR was put into effect in July 2013 and eleven SADC Member States have signed the MOU. Given the signed MOU, SADC can operationalize the MOU at the regional level and Member States should align their seed laws with the regional agreement (domestication). The Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) initiated the domestication process in Malawi, Swaziland, Zambia and

Zimbabwe, with the support of Swiss Development Cooperation under the Harmonized Seed Security Project (HaSSP). The Regional Agro-Input Program Seed Baseline Studies of 2010- 2011, under Common Market for East and Southern Africa’s (COMESA’s) Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern Africa (ACTESA) Regional Agro-inputs Program, defines the status of legal and regulatory frameworks in COMESA countries. Eight SADC countries also belong to COMESA.

COMESA has its own Seed Trade Harmonized Regulations similar to the SADC HSR and these are in early stages of implementation. USAID Missions in Africa are also supporting COMESA Seed Harmonization Implementation Plan (COMSHIP) and West Africa Seed Project (WASP).

By harmonizing seed and trade regulations, COMESA and SADC Member States as well as USAID expect to avoid duplicative national testing and to promote increased regional seed trade.

This will transform the seed market and create incentives for local and international seed companies to develop varieties adaptable to the dynamic production environment; expand distribution networks and extension services for seeds; and improve quantity, quality and choice of seed for farmers.

C.2 SCOPE

The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance for implementation of the SADC HSR. The contract focuses on implementation of the Technical Agreements on Harmonization of Seed Regulations in the SADC Region as defined in this RFP on Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seed. The contractor at a minimum must address the following issues:

1. Determine the technical resource requirements to implement the Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance systems;

2. Design and develop a sustainable business model in consultation with the regional key stakeholders for implementing and administering the SADC HSR. The administrative model is expected to be self - financing by the end of the project;

3. Provide technical assistance for the implementation and management of the administrative model adopted by the regional seed sector stakeholders for Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release and Seed Certification and Quality Assurance

4. Strengthen and/or develop human and institutional capacities at regional and Member States level for implementing the SADC HSR sustainably;

5. Facilitate integrating the private and public sector systems for Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release and Seed Certification and Quality Assurance in FTF focus countries using lessons from South Africa and/or other countries and regions;

6. Provide technical assistance for aligning Member States (primarily the Feed the Future focus and aligned countries1) seed policies and regulations to the SADC Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance, Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures and Plant Breeders’ Rights;

7. Provide technical assistance to Feed The Future Focus countries to acquire required accreditations to facilitate implementation of the SADC HSR;

8. Facilitate public/private development of a seed market information system for seed demand forecasting;

9. Develop multi-stakeholder coordination and partnership mechanisms for implementing the SADC HSR; and

10. Facilitate transfer of technologies and management practices in target seeds value chains from South Africa and other countries to Feed the Future focus and aligned countries in the region utilizing tools such as grants under contract.

Though the contractor must place priority on Feed the Future focus countries in the SADC region, some activities are of a regional nature and the contractor must support them to establish functional harmonized seed regulations processes or as directed by USAID/SA. The contract will facilitate the implementation of the SADC HSR, initially for Southern Africa Feed the Future strategic value chains2. The proposed issues above to be addressed fit with the USAID Southern Africa Mission (USAID/SA) Trade and Food Security project, which incorporates the Regional Development Cooperation Strategy, the Country Development Cooperation Strategy for South Africa, and the Feed the Future Multi-Year Strategy3. It fits with regional programs, such as the Comprehensive African Agriculture Development Program (CAADP)4 framework and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP), the Regional Agricultural Policy (RAP) and the Regional CAADP Compact5. Under the Trade and Food Security project, increasing agricultural productivity and expanding intra-regional trade are key components of increasing economic growth, improving regional integration, and improving regional food security, particularly for landlocked countries. The Trade and Food Security project Results Framework (Figure 1) indicates the theory of change or development hypothesis for improving farm level agricultural productivity (highlighted in green).

C.3 RESULTS

The contractor must achieve the results (under 1.1 Improved Agricultural Productivity) indicated in the results framework in Figure 1.

1 Zimbabwe is a Feed the Future aligned country. Activities in this country will be implemented under the ‘Use of Applicable Notwithstanding and Other Authorities to Permit

Use USG Assistance Funds for Certain Activities in Zimbabwe - Section 7060(d) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act provides notwithstanding authority for food security and agricultural development programs to address food shortages’. These authorities have been issued annually. Activities in

Zimbabwe will be limited to the private sector and with concurrence with the Zimbabwe USAID Mission

2 Southern Africa Feed the Future strategic value chains are maize, soy and groundnuts.

3 http://www.usaid.gov/southern-africa-regional

4 http://www.nepad-caadp.net

5 http://www.sadc.int http://www.usaid.gov/southern-africa-regional http://www.nepad-caadp.net/ http://www.sadc.int/

Figure 1: Trade and Food Security Project Results Framework

Performance on the expected results will be measured through the indicators listed under C.8.

Table 1 outlines the expected outputs and outcomes.

Table 1: Harmonized seed regulations outputs and outcomes Result 1: Increased availability of improved seeds in the region

The contractor must work with the SADC Seed Center (SSC), the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU), relevant International Seed Research Organizations and the National Seed Authorities, Plant Protection Offices, National Seed Trade Associations in Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia, private sector seed companies and other stakeholders to establish and implement efficient systems on regional Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds

Sub- Results

1.1 Increased human and institutional capacities

1.1.1 Increased human capacity for administration, information management and implementation of the HSR standardized Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds to ensure sustainable production and supply of high quality seed varieties in target seed value chains

1.1.2 Increased institutional capacity for administration, information management, implementation and utilization of the HSR standardized Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds

Expected outputs and outcomes

1. Effective regional and Member States (FTF focus countries) web-based interactive seed variety catalogs and database developed and tested according to best practices in other countries and regions

2. National and Regional Seed Information and knowledge management systems developed and tested

3. Regional and national capacities and systems (human and institutional) developed to administer and manage the HSR standardized Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds

4. Strengthened capacity of multi-stakeholder platforms to support alignment of national seed policies and regulatory frameworks to the HSR in Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia

1.2 Strengthened systems for HSR standardized Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds

Expected outputs and outcomes:

5. Regional seed variety testing, registration and release systems for target seed crops developed and tested

6. Certification and quality assurance systems for target seed crops developed and tested

7. Regional variety testing, registration and release and certification and quality assurance systems successfully tested with a number of improved varieties (drought tolerant, nutrient efficient, pest resistant and/or high yielding) in target value chains tested, registered and released and certified through the regional proposed systems

8. A system for public and private engagement in demand forecasting along the seed supply chain developed and tested

1.3 Increased public-private engagement in the implementation of the HSR

Expected outcome

9. (Increased investment) Value of private sector investment in regional seed value chains

10. Increased utilization of the regional release system

As outlined in the CDCS for South Africa (Development Objective 3), a key regional development theme is to leverage South Africa’s more advanced agricultural sector and economy to benefit lower-income countries in the region. The contractor must leverage South African public and private sector, universities and other institutions to transfer technologies, management practices and innovations to Feed the Future focus and aligned countries for improving seed value chains and farm level agricultural productivity.

Table 2: Outputs and outcomes for transfer of technologies and management practices Result 2 Increased availability of technologies, management practices and innovations Sub-Results 2.1 Increased public-private investment in the transfer of technologies, management practices and innovations

2.2 Strengthened regional public, private and civil society partnerships and networks to promote development and dissemination of agricultural technologies and management practices

Expected outputs and outcomes:

11. (Increased investment) - Value of private sector investment in regional seed value chains

12. Increased utilization of the HSR standardized Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seeds

13. Number of technologies and management practices transferred from South Africa into Feed the Future focus countries

14. Number of partnerships formed as a result of USG support

C.4 COORDINATION WITH HOST COUNTRY, OTHER PROJECTS AND OTHER

DONORS

The contractor must coordinate and cooperate with the SADC Secretariat, COMESA and relevant institutions in Feed the Future focus countries. The contractor must collaborate and coordinate with the Southern Africa Trade and Investment Hub project in implementing this contract. In addition, the contractor must avoid duplication by aligning this activity with other seed development activities funded by USAID and other donors in the region, specifically:

● Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Scaling Seeds and Technologies

Partnership (SSTP);

● United Kingdom’s Department for International Development’s (DFID) Food Trade East and Southern Africa;

● Wageningen UR Centre for Development Innovation’s Integrated Seed Sector Development in Africa Programme;

● USAID/Malawi’s Reseeding Malawi’s Smallholder Agriculture with Improved Maize, Groundnut, Pigeon Pea, Soy, Sweet Potato and Aflatoxin Management Technologies (ReSeed);

● African Union Commission’s African Seed and Biotechnology Programme (ASBP); and

● Mozambique Strengthening Agribusinesses and Fostering Rural Alimentation (SAFRA) project.

The contractor must avoid duplication and maximize synergies with other projects in the sector that may be launched during the life of this contract. The contractor must partner with local implementing organizations and build local institutions that can continue to provide leadership in the region and Member States to implement the HSR.

In providing technical assistance and facilitating transfer of technologies from South Africa to Feed the Future focus countries, the contractor must develop partnerships of mutual benefit with relevant public institutions and private sector companies and associations in South Africa.

Technologies from other countries may also be considered in agreement with USAID/SA.

Grants Under Contract (GUC) of approximately $1.5 million over the life of the contract will be made available to strengthen the capacity and encourage innovation and the application of new technologies among regional seed release institutions, seed trade associations and seed research institutions with the goal of improving the availability to high quality improved seed in the region. The GUC will be used to support the overall facilitation and full implementation of the regional harmonized seed regulations.

C.5 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The contract will be performed in the Southern Africa region with a focus on the Feed the Future countries of Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The contractor must co-locate its office with the SADC Seed Centre or alternatively a location that will facilitate day-to-day coordination and close collaboration with the Centre which is located in Lusaka, Zambia.

C.6 PERSONNEL

The contractor’s key personnel must have experience in regional agricultural development, agricultural economics, seed production systems, seed security, food security, and commodity trade. In addition, they must demonstrate expert knowledge of the SADC and Member State policy and institutions related to agricultural development, seed markets, regional trade, socio-economic situation, and regional and national agricultural and food security policies. The contractor must obtain approval for key personnel and changes in key personnel from the USAID/SA Contracting Officer.

C.7 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

The contractor’s performance monitoring and evaluation plan (PMEP) must permit efficient and timely measurement of progress towards outputs and outcome indicators for each result and sub-result. The contractor must include the required and standard Feed the Future indicators and the custom indicators set forth in the table below. The Feed the Future indicators in the table below are required indicators. The Performance Indicator Reference Sheets in the Feed the Future Indicator Handbook (October 2014) provide definitions and other relevant information for the Required and Standard Indicators.

Table 3: Indicators required for the activity SPS-ID Indicator

Required Indicators 4.5.2(5) Number of farmers and others who have applied new technologies or management practices as a result of USG assistance

4.5.2(7) Number of individuals who have received USG supported short-term agricultural sector productivity or food security training

4.5.2(11) Number of food security private enterprises (for profit), producers organizations, water users associations, women's groups, trade and business associations, and community-based organizations (CBOs) receiving USG assistance

4.5.2(38) Value of new private sector investment in the agriculture sector or food chain leveraged by Feed the Future implementation

Standard Indicators 4.5.1(24) Numbers of policies completing the following processes/steps of development as a result of USG assistance in each case:

1. Analysis

2. Stakeholder consultation/public debate

3. Drafting or revision

4. Approval (legislative or regulatory)

5. Full and effective implementation

4.5.1(New) Number of national-level policies required for full implementation of a regionally agreed-upon policy progressing through necessary steps as a result of USG assistance.

4.5.2(12) Number of public-private partnerships formed as a result of Feed the Future assistance

4.5.2(27) Number of members of producer organizations and community based organizations receiving USG assistance

4.5.2(42) Number of private enterprises (for profit), that applied new technologies or management practices as a result of USG assistance

Custom Indicators

1. Sustainable business model for regional seed release and certification operational

2. Percent of regional HSR administrative system costs covered by revenues generated – for example application fees, certification fees, maintaining varieties on regional catalogue, etc.

3. Number of seed varieties in distribution from the regional HSR systems (disaggregated by crop)

4. Percent change in time to release and trade a new seed variety in FTF countries in Southern Africa using the HSR for key commodities: maize, soy and groundnuts

5. Percent change in cost to release and trade a new seed variety in FTF countries in Southern Africa using the HSR for key commodities: maize, soy and groundnuts

6. Type of seeds and varieties in distribution from the HSR systems

7. Number of seed companies engaged in regional seed varietal release

8. Number of new technologies or management practices made available for transfer as a result of USG assistance

9. Quantity of seeds traded under HSR (disaggregated by crop – maize, soybeans, ground nuts)

10. Value of seeds traded under HSR ((disaggregated by crop – maize, soybeans, ground nuts)

Additional custom indicators that align with the contractor’s approach and logical framework for the contract must be added to the table for inclusion in the final PMEP. The contractor must develop performance standards, including monitoring methods, performance levels, and aggressive but achievable targets for all proposed interventions. The contractor must also identify sources and collect baseline data for all interventions as part of the PMEP. The PMEP detailing all indicators must be approved by the USAID Contracting Officer’s Representative and reviewed annually as part of reporting and the work plan approval process.

[END OF SECTION C]

SECTION D – PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

(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 general rule, marking is not required for raw materials shipped in bulk (such as coal, grain, etc.), or for semi-finished products which are not packaged.

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

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

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

D.2 BRANDING POLICY

The Contractor shall comply with the requirements of the policy directives and required procedures outlined in USAID ADS 320.3.2 “Branding and Marking in USAID Direct Contracting” (version from May 5, 2009) at http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/320.pdf; and USAID "Graphic Standards Manual" available at www.usaid.gov/branding, or any successor branding policy.

D.3 BRANDING STRATEGY

In accordance with ADS 320.3.2.1, Contractor must prepare a Branding Implementation Plan (BIP) and Marking Plan (MP) to address the Branding Strategy described below. This is to ensure that the successful Offeror‘s Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan under this contract are in compliance with the USAID Graphics Standard Manual available at http://www.usaid.gov/branding and any successor branding policy, as detailed in ADS Chapter 320.

USAID policy is to require exclusive branding and marking in USAID direct acquisitions.

“Exclusive Branding” means that the project is positioned as USAID‘s, as showcased by the project name (e.g. Harmonized Seed Regulations in the SADC Region). “Exclusive marking” means contractors may only mark USAID-funded programs, projects, activities, public communications, and commodities with the USAID Standard Graphic Identity and, where applicable, the host-country government or ministry symbol or logo. It is USAID‘s policy that contractor‘s and sub-contractors corporate identities or logos may not be used on USAID-funded program and communications materials.

Objective: To provide prospective contractors with areas to be addressed in the development of the Branding Implementation Plan and the Marking Plan to deliver the message that the assistance is from the American People.

Project Name: “Harmonized Seed Regulations in the SADC Region” or until a final name is agreed to with the contractor.

Positioning: The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance for implementation of the SADC HSR. The contract focuses on implementation of the Technical Agreements on Harmonization of Seed Regulations in the SADC Region as defined in this RFP on Seed Variety Testing, Registration and Release, Seed Certification and Quality Assurance and Quarantine and Phytosanitary Measures for Seed. The Contractor will have the responsibility to position USAID’s name in each activity to be supported to ensure that people recognize and identify that those activities are developed by the generous contribution of the US government and the American people.

Level of visibility: The project will ensure a high level of USAID visibility in most of their activities, at both the national and sub-national levels. Due to the nature of policy and institutional reforms which usually is developed with high level of political will, in the cases where the themes appear as sensitive, low profile will be used. When a sensitive situation needs to be considered, the IE will strictly follow USAID recommendations.

Anticipated elements of marking plan: Deliverables to be marked, include products, equipment and inputs delivered; places where project activities are carried out; external public communications, studies, reports, publications and informative and promotional products; and workshops, conferences, fairs, media related activities and any such events. Publications authored by contractors or other non-USAID employees must include the following disclaimer on the title page:

“The author‘s views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development or the United States Government.”

Threats and restrictions to the security of the project need to be identified and assessed in order to request any necessary exception from the marking requirement in accordance with ADS 320.3.2.

USAID‘s web page contains the electronic version of the Graphic Standards Manual that is compulsory for all contractors.

D.4 MARKING

1. Description of public communications and program materials to be produced as part of the activity that will visibly bear the USAID Identity:

Standard USAID Identity:

Standard USAID Identity:

2. “This project was made possible by the United States Agency for International Development and the generous support of the American People.”

D.5 FEED THE FUTURE BRANDING AND MARKING

The contractor is required to comply and ensure compliance by any subcontractors with USAID’s branding and marking requirements set forth in 2 CFR 700.16 with the Feed the Future specific guidance located at www.feedthefuture.gov/branding.

[END OF SECTION D]

http://www.feedthefuture.gov/branding

SECTION E – INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY

REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this contract. See FAR 52.252-2 for an internet address (if specified) for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

52.246-3 INSPECTION OF SUPPLIES—COST-REIMBURSEMENT MAY 2001

52.246-5 INSPECTION OF SERVICES—COST-REIMBURSEMENT APR 1984

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

USAID inspection and acceptance of all services, reports and other required deliverables or outputs under this proposed contract must take place at the principle place of performance or at any other location where the services are performed and reports and deliverables or outputs are produced or submitted. The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) listed in Section G has been delegated the authority to inspect and accept all services, reports, and required deliverables or outputs.

[END OF SECTION E]

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY

REFERENCE

The following Contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this Contract. See FAR 52.252-2 for an internet address (if specified) for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

NUMBER TITLE DATE

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR Chapter 1)

52.242-15 STOP-WORK ORDER (ALTERNATE I) APR 1984

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The period of performance of this contract is five years from the effective date.

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor shall perform the services described in Section C in the Southern Africa region and elsewhere as necessary.

F.4 PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

Evaluation of the Contractor’s overall performance shall be conducted jointly by the COR and the Contracting Officer, and shall form the basis of the Contractor's permanent performance record with regard to this contract.

F.5 KEY PERSONNEL

A. Key personnel are defined as those personnel directly responsible for management of the contract, or those personnel whose professional and technical skills are certified by the requiring office as being essential for the successful implementation of the contract activity.

The Offeror must identify the positions which it considers to be key personnel for this activity, provide detailed position descriptions for each position, and propose individuals for these positions.

The key personnel whom the Contractor shall furnish for the performance of this contract shall include at a minimum the following:

TBD

B. The personnel specified as key are considered to be essential to the work being performed hereunder. Prior to replacing any of the specified individuals, the Contractor shall immediately notify both the Contracting Officer and Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) reasonably in advance and shall submit written justification (including proposed substitutions) in sufficient detail to permit evaluation of the impact on the program. No replacement of personnel shall be made by the Contractor without the written consent of the Contracting Officer.

C. Unless failure to provide the designated key personnel as specified above is beyond the control, and without the fault or negligence, of the Contractor (e.g., non-acceptance or termination of employment by the individual, illness or death of the individual), failure to provide such key personnel as specified above may be considered nonperformance by the Contractor.

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

E. No replacement of key personnel shall be made by the Contractor without the written consent of the Contracting Officer; provided, that the CO may ratify in writing such replacement and such ratification shall constitute the consent of the CO required by this clause.

F. Proposed substitutions must be submitted simultaneously to the CO and the COR not later than 30 days after the departure of, or non-acceptance of employment by, any of the approved individuals, and the proposed substitute personnel must have at least the same qualifications as the applicable key personnel specified above. Failure to do so may be considered nonperformance by the Contractor.

G. The listing of key personnel may, with the consent of the contracting parties, be amended from time to time during the course of this contract to either add, change, or delete personnel and positions, as appropriate.

F.6 REPORTS AND DELIVERABLES

The contractor must deliver the following reports and deliverables:

Report/Deliverable Draft Due Date Final Due Date Submission requirements Content Year 1 Work Plan Within 90 calendar days of contract award date

10 days after receipt of comments from

COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.a.1 below

Subsequent Annual Work Plans

Within 30 days of the anniversary of the contract award date

10 days after receipt of comments from

COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.a.1

Mobilization Plan Within 30 calendar days of the contract effective date

5 days after receipt of comments from COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.b

Performance Management and Evaluation Plan

(PMEP)

Within 90 days of contract award date

10 days after receipt of comments from

COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.c

Weekly Updates and planned future activities, events and travel

N/A Every Thursday COB Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.d

Trip Reports N/A Within one work week after the completion of the specific trip

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager

Per F.6.e

Quarterly Progress Reports

N/A Within 30 days after the end of each quarter of performance (the first one is due 120 days after contract award)

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.f

Quarterly Financial Reports and Accruals

N/A 30 days after the completion of each quarter

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.g

Annual Performance Reports

30 days after the end of the USAID Fiscal Year (By October 31)

15 days after receipt of comments from the COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.h

Success Stories and project summary documents

Submitted with quarterly report

15 days after receipt of comments from the COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.i

Sub-Grants Manual

Due 90 calendar days after contract effective date

10 days after receipt of comments from

COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.j

Final Report (to substitute for the Annual Progress report for Year 5)

Within 45 days after the completion date of the contract

10 days after receipt of comments from the COR

Submit electronically to the COR with a copy to the CO & Activity Manager.

Per F.6.k

F.6.a.1 Annual Work plans The year 1 work plan must logically expand upon the outline developed during the proposal phase. It must: identify and sequence key milestones, deliverables, outputs and outcomes of major activities, by month, for the year. Outputs and outcomes must indicate the contribution to an IR in the results framework. The work plan must also identify resources associated with each activity. It must show linkages to targets and to quality assurance and monitoring from the contract performance management and evaluation plan (PMEP). The contractor must obtain COR approval for the Year 1 work plan.

F.6.a.2 Subsequent Annual Work Plans For the second and following years, the contractor must develop a detailed annual work plan. It must: identify and sequence key milestones, deliverables, outputs and outcomes of major activities, by month, for the year. Outputs and outcomes must indicate the contribution to an IR in the results framework. The work plan must also identify resources associated with each activity. It must show linkages to targets and to quality assurance and monitoring from the contract PMEP. The contractor will ensure that the plan addresses adjustments in program funding levels during the year (if different than the planned funding levels set forth upon contract award). The contractor must obtain COR approval for annual work plans.

F.6.b Mobilization Plan The mobilization plan must describe in detail all resources (staff recruitment, office space, equipment, etc.), and activities necessary to establish and launch the project efficiently, rapidly and effectively. The contractor must obtain COR approval for the mobilization plan.

F.6.c Performance Management and Evaluation Plan (PMEP) The Contractor must deliver a draft PMEP that establishes concrete measures, including rationale, data collection tools and methods, data sources and plans for achieving and capturing results using, as appropriate, the USAID required/standard and agreed custom performance indicators and targets. The contractor will make adjustments to the PMEP as necessary and when needed, but, at least, annually in conjunction with the annual work plan. The contractor must obtain COR approval of the initial PMEP and any adjustments made over the life of the contract. An updated plan submission is required when changes to the PMEP are proposed by the contractor.

F.6.d Weekly Updates Each week the contractor should provide the COR with bulleted points and brief narrative of the week’s key results and accomplishments and planned activities, including scheduled events and travel for the next 4 weeks.

F.6.e Trip Reports Timeliness is critical for trip reports, as USAID will immediately circulate them to embassies and USAID bilateral missions to keep them informed of program progress in their countries.

Trip reports will be concise, stating the purpose of the trip, key issues addressed, outcomes, recommendations, and next steps. The trip report will be organized by key issues and not as a chronological account of each meeting. The trip report will include key contact information as an attachment, along with any pertinent other information, depending on context (photographs, schedules, presentations, etc.). Sensitive information will be separated from the main body of the report and marked appropriately. The report’s format will be developed in consultation with the COR.

F.6.f Quarterly Progress Reports (QPRs) USAID will use the QPR as the primary means of monitoring contractor performance against contract requirements, targets, milestones and accomplishments detailed in the work plans.

Therefore, the QPRs must provide a list of actual achievements compared to those planned and must provide detailed explanations for any variations between…