USAID Zimbabwe RFQ 72061322Q00003.pdf

Request for Quotation (RFQ) No: 72061322Q00003

Issue Date: June 10, 2022 Deadline for Questions: June 17, 2022 at 5:00pm (Harare Time) Submission Date: July 8, 2022 at 5:00pm (Harare Time)

Subject: Request for Quotation (RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management and crop productivity

Dear Sir/Madam, The United States Government, represented by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking quotations from qualified local entities to carry out a formative research for evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management and crop productivity.

This procurement is issued pursuant to the simplified acquisition procedures of Part 13 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations of the United States.

Potential Offerors are encouraged to carefully read the documentation attached to this letter, as it contains the terms and conditions of the proposed Firm Fixed Price purchase order.

If you choose to submit a quotation, it must be submitted by email to Zeb Simpson @ harareprocure@usaid.gov with a copy to Relax at rmoyo@usaid.gov not later than the date and time displayed at the top of this letter. The quotation must adhere to the requirements listed in the attached Quotation Submission Information.

Issuance of this RFQ does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government, nor does it commit the Government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation or submission of a quotation.

Sincerely, J. Zeb Simpson Contracting Officer

Attachments:

1. Statement of Work

2. Purchase Order Clauses

3. Instructions for Submitting Quotations

4. Representations and Certifications mailto:harareprocurement@usaid.gov mailto:rmoyo@usaid.gov

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

ATTACHMENT 1: STATEMENT OF WORK

TITLE

Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management and crop productivity

BACKGROUND

I. PURPOSE OF FORMATIVE RESEARCH

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of using mobile kraals in soil fertility management as an alternative to conventional methods of using cattle manure from the kraal. The mobile kraal allows for direct fertilization of the soil and utilizes both cattle dung and urine. This research is informed by a concept promoted by The Savory Institute’s Africa Centre for Holistic Management (ACHM). If proven effective compared to conventional methods, the mobile kraals would provide labor savings in soil fertility management as no digging and transportation of manure is involved. The research will focus on soil fertility and effect on crop productivity. The research will be done in areas where USAID is currently implementing food security and resilience activities which will allow the research site to be used as learning centers for neighboring communities. The results from this research will provide evidence on the impact of using mobile kraals for soil fertility management and help farmers and partners in decision-making on adapting this approach for enhancing crop production. This analysis will also make it possible to do a cost benefit analysis of investing in the required infrastructure to use this approach.

Both BHA and FTF partners promote crop and livestock production in the current activities and this research will provide scientific evidence to inform decisions about adopting this approach.

II. BACKGROUND

Context and Rationale

Zimbabwe is an agro-based economy where most people in rural areas survive on farming both crop and livestock. Production levels have been declining in rural areas due to poor soil and water management, climate change and economic challenges limiting access to inputs. USAID/Zimbabwe works with rural communities, empowering them with improved agricultural practices to enhance crop and livestock production and to diversify livelihoods. USAID/Zimbabwe promotes innovative ways which increase productivity and align to diminishing labor endowments within most communities. The Land and Livestock Holistic management approach pioneered by Africa Centre for Holistic Management has promising prospects of transforming crop productivity. One of the promising technologies promoted by the Institute is animal-based soil fertility management through mobile overnight kraals. This study seeks to establish different treatment regimes based on soil type, rainfall levels and inherent soil fertility levels and to evaluate the impact of this approach on soil fertility and productivity of main crops.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

Most communal farmers are located in areas with poor soils which have been degraded over many decades. Productivity in these areas is very low and the livestock holding capacity has also diminished, yet farmers continue to rely on crop farming for livelihoods.

Because of the non-viability of farming enterprises, most able-bodied men and women migrate from rural areas to either urban areas or to neighboring countries in search of better opportunities, leaving a population inclined towards the elderly and children under 18 years of age. This presents a labor challenge to many households to engage in labor-intensive farming activities. Key constraints to crop production are water, soil fertility and access to inputs (seeds, fertilizers and chemicals). Because of the worsening economic situation in Zimbabwe, access to economic resources remains a challenge to most farmers. However, farmers can use different techniques to improve soil fertility and soil’s water holding capacity. The traditional way of managing soil fertility using livestock is to extract animal manure from the kraals (animal overnight holding cells) and spread them in the fields. This approach is labor intensive but also loses nutrients during extraction, storage and spreading of the manure. The animal-based soil fertility improvement provides a promising alternative to improving soil conditions and enhancing crop production. The Savory Institute’s Africa Center for Holistic Management (ACHM) has done trials with mobile kraals to improve soil fertility as an alternative to traditional ways of using animal manure.

Through its trials, it recommends a model where cattle are held in one confined place with a floor area of 3.5m2 per cattle for optimum fertilization for seven days. This study seeks

1) to evaluate the effect of mobile kraals on crop productivity over time using the current model suggested by ACHM, 2) to investigate the soil biochemical changes as a result of this direct soil fertilization by fresh cow dung and urine, and 3) compare productivity between the pfumvudza0F

1 and the animal-based soil fertility management approach. The government is currently promoting conservation farming through the pfumvudza program.

III. RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of animal soil fertilization using movable kraals on crop yields and soil chemistry.

Specifically the research will seek to answer the following questions;

1. What is the yield difference for maize, sorghum and groundnuts between mobile kraals fertilized soils and the conventionally applied animal manure from fixed kraals?

2. What is the variation in soil biochemistry under the two methods of soil fertilization?

3. How do yields under mobile kraals compare with the pfumvudza concept?

4. What are the incremental benefits of combining mobile kraals with pfumvudza?

IV. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

The research will use an experimental design using randomized block design to take into account potential variation in soil types. The randomized block design allows the area/land to be grouped into homogeneous plots based on factors of interest and the trial will be repeated in each homogeneous plot/block. It is similar to stratified sampling in social sciences.

1 a method of conservation agriculture promoted by the government of Zimbabwe using planting basins for moisture conservation and fertilizer or manure for soil fertility management.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

For this study, 24 blocks/sites are proposed with 12 blocks in Matabeleland North and 12 Blocks in Manicaland/Masvingo. Each block will have five plots assigned to different treatments as outlined below.

A. Animal-fertilized plot (using mobile kraals) B. Animal manure (using traditional methods) C. Pfumvudza plot D. Animal-fertilized + Pfumvudza plot E. Control (no Manure and no fertilizer)

NB: Land preparation on each plot will depend on the treatment for that plot. All other agronomic practices will be done on the same day in the same way.

Block design A B C D E Animal-fertilized plot (using mobile Kraals)

Animal Manure (using traditional methods)

Pfumvudza

Animal fertilized + Pfumvudza

Control

The blocks will be divided as follows.

● 4 blocks with trial on maize

● 4 blocks with trial on sorghum (representing small grains)

● 4 blocks with trial on groundnuts (representing legumes)

Because of the outbreak of tick-borne diseases, especially January disease (theileriosis), it is not possible to group animals from different households in order to prevent spread of diseases. The research plots will therefore have to be identified at household level.

Households with 6-10 cattle will be ideal for hosting a research site. For this reason, the mobile kraal will be 10m x 40m and will be subdivided into smaller kraals based on livestock numbers. The research team will work with USAID-funded Resilience Food Security Programs in Masvingo, Manicaland and Matabeleland North provinces to identify potential farmers to host the research trials.

Detailed description of treatment arms

Each treatment arm will be on a 200m2 area, ideally 10m x 20m

A. Animal-fertilized plot using mobile kraal

The mobile kraal will be established using a game fence for a total area of 10m x 40m for overnight kraaling, based on the number of cattle the household has the kraal will be sequentially subdivided to allow for flow area of 3.5m2 per animal for seven days before moving cattle to another area until the whole 10m x 40m is fertilized. Please note that this treatment arm will use half of the animal fertilized area (10m x 20m) with another half reserved for treatment D. For each crop, appropriate spacing will be used which should be the same across all plots under the same crop.

B. Animal manure plot using traditional methods

This plot will use a traditional method of soil fertilization using animal manure. Animal manure is extracted from the kraal and spread over the area through broadcasting. The manure is mixed with the soil through plowing.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

C. Pfumvudza plot

The pfumvudza plot is prepared through potholing and spot application of fertilizer. This plot will follow the national guidelines for pfumvudza. The local extension worker should be consulted if there are any adaptations to the national guidelines and those should be documented. For consistency of measure, this plot will follow the national guidelines regardless of local adaptations.

D. Animal-fertilized + Pfumvudza plot

This plot will be on the second half of the area fertilized through mobile kraal. The pfumvudza concept will be repeated in this area as explained above.

E. Control (no fertilizer, no manure)

No fertilizer or manure will be applied on this plot. All other agronomic management practices such as planting dates, weeding, and pest and disease control will be the same as all treatment arms above.

All treatment arms should receive the same agronomic practices done at the same time, such as planting, weed & pest control. No treatment, which is not part of the study, should be introduced to any of the treatment arms.

The table below summarizes the minimum analysis expected to answer each research question. Offerors are requested to refine or modify this matrix based on their understanding of the work to be done and their experience conducting similar studies. The final research design and methodology will be negotiated with USAID upon task order award and before field work begins.

Questions

Data Sources Required Analysis

1. Does soil fertilization using mobile kraals provide better crop yields than conventional application of animal manure?

Area under Plot A & Plot B Germination rates for Plot A and Plot B Plant population for Plot A & Plot B Total production for Plot A & Plot B

Yield per plot Difference in Yields including test of differences

2. What is the variation in soil biochemistry under the two methods of soil fertilization?

Soil fertility and biochemistry tests of Plot A and Plot B

Differences in nutrients and soil chemistry between plot A and Plot B

3. How do yields under mobile kraals compare with the pfumvudza concept?

Area under Plot A & Plot C Germination rates for Plot A and Plot C Plant population for

Yield per plot Difference in Yields including test of differences

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

Plot A & Plot C Total production for Plot A & Plot C

4. Are there any incremental benefits of combining mobile kraals with pfumvudza?

Area under Plot A, Plot C, Plot D & Plot E Germination rates for Plot A, Plot C, Plot D & Plot E Plant population for Plot A, Plot C, Plot D & Plot E Total production for Plot A, Plot C, Plot D & Plot E

Yield per plot Difference in Yields including test of differences Differences in nutrients and soil chemistry between plots

USAID expects that, at a minimum, the research team will:

● Upon award, familiarize themselves with the Savory Institute’s Africa Centre for Holistic Management concept of mobile kraals.

● Elaborate the experimental design for this study using this SOW as the basis.

● Meet with USAID-supported Takunda and Amalima Loko Resilience and

Food Security Activities for collaboration on identification of research sites.

● Procure materials for the study.

● Set up the experimental sites.

The following materials will be required for implementing the field trials.

Materials Required for 24 mobile kraals

● Game fence (100m) x 24 to work as mobile kraal

● Diamond mesh wire (22m) x 24 for partitioning

● 2m gates x 24

● 50mm x 2.1m round poles x 240

● Steel droppers x 240

● tying wire 2kg x 24

● straining wire 50kg x 24

Inputs required for different treatments

● 24 x 2kg maize seed

● 24x 2kg sorghum seed

● 24 x 2kg groundnuts seed

● 24 x 10kg compound D fertilizer

● 24 x 10kg Limestone Ammonium Nitrate

● 8 x 200kg weighing scales

● 4 x soil moisture probes

● 24 x Fall ArmyWorm control pesticide

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

Measurements required

● Area under each treatment

● Planting dates for each treatment

● Germination percentage for each plot

● Plant population for each treatment

● Soil test before any treatment for all research arms

● Soil tests 4 weeks after planting on all plots

● Yield for all plots

● Soil tests after rain season for all plots

Given the field-based nature of the study and the requirement of regular visits, the offeror should put a system in place to monitor the trials throughout the research period and ensure researchers provide necessary support to field assistants who may be recruited to manage the trials. This includes regular visits to the project sites. The Researchers are expected to be at the site when all key measurements are taken.

V. TIMEFRAME

The research is anticipated to utilize the 2022/2023 agricultural season. As such the project is expected to start in June/July to allow for animal-based soil fertilization using mobile kraals before the 2022/23 rainy season. The project will conclude by the end of the 2022/23 farming season, estimated for May 2023.

VI. RESEARCH DELIVERABLES AND SCHEDULE

The Offeror will suggest a timetable for conducting the study and finishing the final research report. USAID expects accomplishment of the following key tasks and deliverables from the successful offeror:

1. In briefing:

Within two weeks of contract award, the research team will meet with the Activity Manager and relevant USAID staff for introductions and to discuss the team’s understanding of the assignment, initial assumptions, research questions, methodology, work plan, and/or to adjust the SOW, if necessary.

2. Research Work Plan:

Within three weeks of the award of the contract, the lead evaluator shall complete and present a draft work plan to the Activity Manager. The work plan will include:

1. Draft schedule and logistical arrangements;

2. Members of the research team, delineated by roles and responsibilities;

3. Research milestones;

4. Plan on identifying study locations and set-up of field trials;

5. Plan for monitoring study sites over the study period;

6. Plan of measurements to be taken and timeframes for data collection and respective analysis; and

7. Report outline.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

3. Research Design:

Within two weeks of approval of the work plan, the evaluation team must submit an updated research design to the Activity Manager. The design will become an annex to the research report.

The research design will include:

1. How the field trials will be set up, treatment arms established, measurements and analysis plan;

2. Monitoring and management of trials including schedule of different treatments and measurement stages;

3. List of all tests to be done during the course of the study and a detailed description of the type of soil tests to be done;

4. List of potential factors which may contaminate the treatments and a plan to record and control for these;

5. Collaboration plan with RFSA partners operating in study areas including plan for periodic review of performance of trials; and

6. Dissemination plan (designed in collaboration with USAID).

All dissemination plans should be developed with USAID and include information on audiences, activities, and deliverables, including any data visualizations, multimedia products, or events to help communicate research findings and conclusions.

4. Regular Briefing and Updates:

The research team is expected to provide monthly updates on the status of the research, including potential challenges, emerging opportunities, and team’s findings to the USAID Activity Manager. Updates can be done via online conferencing and documented via email.

5. Report on field set up of experimental plots

The research team is expected to submit a report outlining how the research has been set up in the field. This report should include the location and coordinates of experimental sites.

6. Mid Season Progress Report The research team is expected to submit a mid-season report outlining progress made, any challenges faced and early observations on the experiment.

7. Preliminary Findings Presentation Meeting and Recommendations

Development:

The evaluation team is expected to hold a virtual/in-person preliminary presentation to discuss the summary of findings and conclusions with USAID and to draft collaboratively any requested recommendations. This presentation date will be determined in the research work plan.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

8. Stakeholders’ Presentation of Findings:

The evaluation team is expected to hold a virtual final presentation to discuss the summary of findings and conclusions (and recommendations, if applicable) with USAID and all internal and external stakeholders. This presentation date will be determined upon presentation of preliminary findings.

9. Draft Report:

The draft research report will address each of the questions identified in the SOW and any other issues the team considers to have a bearing on the objectives of the research. Any such issues can be included in the report only after consultation with USAID. The submission date for the draft research report will be determined in the work plan. Once the initial draft report is submitted, USAID will have 10 working days in which to review and comment on the initial draft, after which point the COR will submit the consolidated comments to the research team. The research team will have 5 working days to respond to comments before submitting a revised report to USAID. Because of the nature of the study it is possible that more than two drafts can be submitted before the report is finalized.

10. Final Report:

The research team will be asked to take no more than 10 working days to respond to and incorporate final draft research report comments from USAID. The research team lead will then submit the final report to the COR. Upon approval by the COR, the team can turn the study into a scientific paper which should be co-branded with USAID.

11. Revised PowerPoint presentation summarizing research findings:

The Offeror will revise the Power Point Presentation delivered as part of the final presentation in (6) to summarize the main findings and recommendations from the final formative research report and submit to USAID along with the final report.

12. Submission of Dataset(s) to the Development Data Library:

Per USAID’s Open Data policy (see ADS 579, USAID Development Data), the contractor must also submit to the COR and the Development Data Library (DDL), at www.usaid.gov/data, in a machine-readable, non-proprietary format, a copy of any dataset created or obtained in performance of this award, if applicable. The dataset should be organized and documented for use by those not fully familiar with the intervention or evaluation. Please review ADS 579.3.2.2 Types of Data To Be Submitted to the DDL to determine applicability.

13. Submission of Final Report to the Development Experience Clearinghouse:

Per USAID policy (ADS 201.3.5.18) the contractor must submit the final report and its summary or summaries to the Development Experience Clearinghouse (DEC) within three months of final approval by USAID.

INVOICES AND PAYMENT

The contractor is eligible to invoice in accordance with the following payment schedule based on the milestones below.

https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/500/579 https://www.usaid.gov/data https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/500/579 https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/200/201 https://dec.usaid.gov/dec/home/Default.aspx

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

Deliverable / Milestone Amount Due Date

Research Draft Work Plan 30% 3 weeks after signing the Purchase Order

Set-up of experimental plots in the field 25% 15 October 2022

Mid-season progress report 20% 15 February, 2023

Preliminary Findings Presentation 15% 15 May 2023

Submission of Final Report 10% 15 June 2023

Amounts/dates in the table above are to be proposed by offeror and TBD at time of PO award.

USAID/Zimbabwe will process payments to the Contractor as follows:

USAID will accept submissions of invoices when deliverables are completed. Payments will be processed within 15 days upon submission of the following items:

1. SF-1034 Public Voucher;

2. Deliverable approved by the activity manager.

USAID will process the final payment for the contract once confirmation has been received that all contract deliverables have been met at the conclusion of the contract.

PAYING OFFICE

Required documentation shall be submitted to the USAID/Zimbabwe’s Financial Management Office located at:

Financial Management Office

USAID/Zimbabwe 2 Lorraine Drive Westgate, Harare

Zimbabwe

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

ATTACHMENT 2: PURCHASE ORDER CLAUSES

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.204-13 SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT MAINTENANCE (OCT 2018)

52.204-18 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE

MAINTENANCE

(AUG 2020)

Terms and Conditions—Simplified Acquisitions (Other Than Commercial Products and Commercial Services) (Jan 2022)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses that are incorporated by reference:

(1) The clauses listed below implement provisions of law or Executive order:

(i) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(ii) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Nov 2021) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(iii) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Nov 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115- 232).

(iv) 52.222-3, Convict Labor (Jun 2003) (E.O.11755).

(v) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (Apr 2015).

(vi) 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (Sept 2016) (E.O.11246).

(vii) 52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (Feb 2021) (E.O.s, proclamations, and statutes administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury).

(viii) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (Aug 1996) ( 31 U.S.C.3553).

(ix) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Oct 2004) (Pub.L.108-77, 108-78 ( 19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(2) Listed below are additional clauses that apply:

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.203-19#FAR_52_203_19 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-23#FAR_52_204_23 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-25#FAR_52_204_25 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-3#FAR_52_222_3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-21#FAR_52_222_21 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-26#FAR_52_222_26 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.225-13#FAR_52_225_13 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.233-3#FAR_52_233_3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.233-4#FAR_52_233_4 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

(i) 52.232-1, Payments (Apr 1984).

(ii) 52.232-8, Discounts for Prompt Payment (Feb 2002).

(iii) 52.232-11, Extras (Apr 1984).

(iv) 52.232-25, Prompt Payment (Jan 2017).

(v) 52.232-39, Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations (Jun 2013).

(vi) 52.232-40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (Nov 2021).

(vii) 52.233-1, Disputes (May 2014).

(viii) 52.244-6, Subcontracts for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (Jan 2022).

(ix) 52.253-1, Computer Generated Forms (Jan 1991).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the following FAR clauses, incorporated by reference, unless the circumstances do not apply:

(1) The clauses listed below implement provisions of law or Executive order:

(i) 52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (Jun 2020)(Pub. L. 109-282) ( 31 U.S.C. 6101 note) (Applies to contracts valued at or above the threshold specified in FAR 4.1403(a) on the date of award of this contract).

(ii) 52.222-19, Child Labor-Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (Jan 2022) (E.O. 13126) (Applies to contracts for supplies exceeding the micro-purchase threshold, as defined in FAR 2.101 on the date of award of this contract).

(iii) 52.222-20, Contracts for Materials, Supplies, Articles, and Equipment., Contracts for Materials, Supplies, Articles, and Equipment (Jun 2020) ( 41 U.S.C.chapter 65) (Applies to supply contracts over the threshold specified in FAR 22.602 on the date of award of this contract, in the United States, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands).

(iv) 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (Jun 2020) ( 38 U.S.C. 4212) (Applies to contracts valued at or above the threshold specified in FAR 22.1303(a) on the date of award of this contract).

(v) 52.222-36, Equal Employment for Workers with Disabilities (Jun 2020) ( 29 U.S.C. 793) (Applies to contracts over the threshold specified in FAR 22.1408(a) on the date of award of this contract, unless the work is to be performed outside the United States by employees recruited outside the United States). (For purposes of this clause, "United States" https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-1#FAR_52_232_1 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-8#FAR_52_232_8 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-11#FAR_52_232_11 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-25#FAR_52_232_25 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-39#FAR_52_232_39 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-40#FAR_52_232_40 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.233-1#FAR_52_233_1 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.244-6#FAR_52_244_6 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.253-1#FAR_52_253_1 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-10#FAR_52_204_10 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title31-section6101&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/far/4.1403#FAR_4_1403 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-19#FAR_52_222_19 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/2.101#FAR_2_101 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-20#FAR_52_222_20 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-35#FAR_52_222_35 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/22.1303#FAR_22_1303 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-36#FAR_52_222_36 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/22.1408#FAR_22_1408

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity includes the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Wake Island.)

(vi) 52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (Jun 2020) ( 38 U.S.C. 4212) (Applies to contracts valued at or above the threshold specified in FAR 22.1303(a) on the date of award of this contract).

(vii) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (Aug 2018) ( 41 U.S.C.

chapter 67) (Applies to service contracts over $2,500 that are subject to the Service Contract Labor Standards statute and will be performed in the United States, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Johnston Island, Wake Island, or the outer Continental Shelf).

(viii) (A) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (Nov 2021) ( 22 U.S.C.

chapter 78 and E.O. 13627) (Applies to all solicitations and contracts).

(B) Alternate I (Mar 2015) (Applies if the Contracting Officer has filled in the following information with regard to applicable directives or notices: Document title(s), source for obtaining document(s), and contract performance location outside the United States to which the document applies).

(ix) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (Jan 2022) (Applies when 52.222-6 or 52.222-41 are in the contract and performance in whole or in part is in the United States (the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Johnston Island, Wake Island, and the outer Continental Shelf as defined in the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331, et seq.))).

(x) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (Jan 2022) (E.O.

13706) (Applies when 52.222-6 or 52.222-41 are in the contract and performance in whole or in part is in the United States (the 50 States and the District of Columbia.))

(xi) 52.223-5, Pollution Prevention and Right-to-Know Information (May 2011) (E.O. 13423) (Applies to services performed on Federal facilities).

(xii) 52.223-11, Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693)(applies to contracts for products as prescribed at FAR 23.804(a)(1)).

(xiii) 52.223-12, Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693) (Applies to maintenance, service, repair, or disposal of refrigeration equipment and air conditioners).

(xiv) 52.223-15, Energy Efficiency in Energy-Consuming Products (May 2020) ( 42 U.S.C. 8259b) (Unless exempt pursuant to 23.204, applies to contracts when energy-https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-37#FAR_52_222_37 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/22.1303#FAR_22_1303 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-41#FAR_52_222_41 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title41-chapter67-front&num=0&edition=prelim http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title41-chapter67-front&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-50#FAR_52_222_50 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-55#FAR_52_222_55 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-6#FAR_52_222_6 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-41#FAR_52_222_41 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-62#FAR_52_222_62 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-6#FAR_52_222_6 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.222-41#FAR_52_222_41 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-5#FAR_52_223_5 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-11#FAR_52_223_11 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/23.804#FAR_23_804 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-12#FAR_52_223_12 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-15#FAR_52_223_15 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/23.204#FAR_23_204

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity consuming products listed in the ENERGY STAR® Program or Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP)) will be-

(A) Delivered;

(B) Acquired by the Contractor for use in performing services at a Federally-controlled facility;

(C) Furnished by the Contractor for use by the Government; or

(D) Specified in the design of a building or work, or incorporated during its construction, renovation, or maintenance).

(xv) 52.223-20, Aerosols (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693) (Applies to contracts for products that may contain high global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons as a propellant or as a solvent; or contracts for maintenance or repair of electronic or mechanical devices).

(xvi) 52.223-21, Foams (Jun 2016) (E.O. 13693) (Applies to contracts for products that may contain high global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons or refrigerant blends containing hydrofluorocarbons as a foam blowing agent; or contracts for construction of buildings or facilities.

(xvii) 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies (Nov 2021) ( 41 U.S.C. chapter 67) (Applies to contracts for supplies, and to contracts for services involving the furnishing of supplies, for use in the United States or its outlying areas, if the value of the supply contract or supply portion of a service contract exceeds the micro-purchase threshold, as defined in FAR 2.101 on the date of award of this contract, and the acquisition-

(A) Is set aside for small business concerns; or

(B) Cannot be set aside for small business concerns (see 19.502-2), and does not exceed $25,000).

(xviii) 52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations., Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (Jun 2020) ( 42 U.S.C. 1792) (Applies to contracts greater than the threshold specified in FAR 26.404 on the date of award of this contract, that provide for the provision, the service, or the sale of food in the United States).

(xix) 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (Oct 2013)(Applies when the payment will be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT) and the payment office uses the System for Award Management (SAM) as its source of EFT information).

(xx) 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-Other than System for Award Management (Jul 2013) (Applies when the payment will be made by EFT and the payment office does not use the SAM database as its source of EFT information).

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-20#FAR_52_223_20 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.223-21#FAR_52_223_21 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.225-1#FAR_52_225_1 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/2.101#FAR_2_101 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/19.502-2#FAR_19_502_2 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.226-6#FAR_52_226_6 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/26.404#FAR_26_404 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-33#FAR_52_232_33 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.232-34#FAR_52_232_34

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

(xxi) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (Nov 2021) ( 46 U.S.C. 55305)(Applies to supplies transported by ocean vessels (except for the types of subcontracts listed at 47.504(d)).

(2) Listed below are additional clauses that may apply:

(i) 52.204-21, Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems (Nov 2021) (Applies to contracts when the contractor or a subcontractor at any tier may have Federal contract information residing in or transiting through its information system.)

(ii) 52.209-6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment (Nov 2021) (Applies to contracts over the threshold specified in FAR 9.405-2(b) on the date of award of this contract).

(iii) 52.211-17, Delivery of Excess Quantities (Sept 1989) (Applies to fixed-price supplies).

(iv) 52.247-29, F.o.b. Origin (Feb 2006) (Applies to supplies if delivery is f.o.b.

origin).

(v) 52.247-34, F.o.b. Destination (Nov 1991) (Applies to supplies if delivery is f.o.b. destination).

(c) FAR 52.252-2, Clauses Incorporated by Reference (Feb 1998). This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available.

Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

[Insert one or more Internet addresses]

(d) Inspection/Acceptance. The Contractor shall tender for acceptance only those items that conform to the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or reperformance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price. The Government must exercise its postacceptance rights-https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.247-64#FAR_52_247_64 https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2019-title46/html/USCODE-2019-title46-subtitleV-partD-chap553-subchapI-sec55305.htm https://www.acquisition.gov/far/47.504#FAR_47_504 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-21#FAR_52_204_21 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.209-6#FAR_52_209_6 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/9.405-2#FAR_9_405_2 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.211-17#FAR_52_211_17 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.247-29#FAR_52_247_29 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.247-34#FAR_52_247_34

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

(1) Within a reasonable period of time after the defect was discovered or should have been discovered; and

(2) Before any substantial change occurs in the condition of the item, unless the change is due to the defect in the item.

(e) Excusable delays. The Contractor shall be liable for default unless nonperformance is caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the Contractor and without its fault or negligence, such as acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, unusually severe weather, and delays of common carriers. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer in writing as soon as it is reasonably possible after the commencement of any excusable delay, setting forth the full particulars in connection therewith, shall remedy such occurrence with all reasonable dispatch, and shall promptly give written notice to the Contracting Officer of the cessation of such occurrence.

(f) Termination for the Government's convenience. The Government reserves the right to terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for its sole convenience. In the event of such termination, the Contractor shall immediately stop all work hereunder and shall immediately cause any and all of its suppliers and subcontractors to cease work. Subject to the terms of this contract, the Contractor shall be paid a percentage of the contract price reflecting the percentage of the work performed prior to the notice of termination, plus reasonable charges that the Contractor can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Government, using its standard record keeping system, have resulted from the termination. The Contractor shall not be required to comply with the cost accounting standards or contract cost principles for this purpose. This paragraph does not give the Government any right to audit the Contractor’s records. The Contractor shall not be paid for any work performed or costs incurred that reasonably could have been avoided.

(g) Termination for cause. The Government may terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for cause in the event of any default by the Contractor, or if the Contractor fails to comply with any contract terms and conditions, or fails to provide the Government, upon request, with adequate assurances of future performance. In the event of termination for cause, the Government shall not be liable to the Contractor for any amount for supplies or services not accepted, and the Contractor shall be liable to the Government for any and all rights and remedies provided by law. If it is determined that the Government improperly terminated this contract for default, such termination shall be deemed a termination for convenience.

(h) Warranty. The Contractor warrants and implies that the items delivered hereunder are merchantable and fit for use for the particular purpose described in this contract.

(End of clause)

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

ATTACHMENT 3: QUOTATION SUBMISSION INFORMATION

A. INSTRUCTIONS FOR QUOTATIONS

Quotations are limited to 15 pages maximum for all information, excluding cover page, table of contents, dividers, résumés/CVs, letters of commitment from proposed personnel, past performance information, and cost/price information.

Quotations must be submitted as email attachments in Microsoft Word or Excel, or Adobe PDF format to Zeb Simpson at harareprocurement@usaid.gov with a copy to Relax Moyo at rmoyo@usaid.gov no later than the date and time stated on the cover letter.

PERSONNEL

USAID anticipates a team of at least two key personnel (a crop scientist or agronomist and a soil scientist) and additional non key personnel that allow efficient and quality management of the research. The Lead Researcher must have demonstrated experience in conducting similar studies and producing scientific papers. Because of the scientific nature of the study, one of the researchers should be affiliated with an academic or research institution.

The Offeror must provide information about research team members, including their curricula vitae, and explain how they meet the requirements in the SOW. Submissions of writing samples or links to past research papers and related deliverables composed by proposed team members are highly desirable. Per ADS 201.3.5.14, all team members must provide to USAID a signed statement attesting to a lack of conflict of interest or describing an existing conflict of interest relative to the project or activity being evaluated (i.e., a conflict of interest form). The offeror should ensure the following conditions are met:

● A minimum of two principal researchers is envisaged, one serving as lead researcher and another co-researcher. The two researchers must have qualifications in crop science or agronomy and soil science.

● The lead researcher must be either a crop scientist or soil scientist with at least a Masters degree in any of these areas or in experimental research.

● Demonstrated Experience in field based trials using block design experimental research is a must.

● Principal investigator/lead researcher should be affiliated to an academic institution or research organization.

● The Lead researcher or applying institution should have prior experience in scientific publications in related fields.

● The co-researcher should have a complementary qualification to the Lead Researcher.

i.e if the Lead researcher is a crop scientist or agronomist then the co-researcher should be a soil scientist mailto:harareprocurement@usaid.gov mailto:rmoyo@usaid.gov https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/200/201

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

Level of Effort (LOE):

● The estimated LOE for the Lead researcher is 75 days spread across the research period while the LOE for the Co-researcher is estimated at 60 days. Lower level staff may be needed to support day to day monitoring of field sites. Domestic travel to research sites will be required. The consultant(s) will set up treatment arms, collect and analyze data and communicate results.

TECHNICAL APPROACH AND FEASIBILITY

● Offerors must describe how the study objectives will be met through every stage within the specified timeframe, methodology and technical approach.

COST

● Offerors must provide the proposed firm, fixed price for implementation of this formative research.

● Budget should include description of costs for personnel, travel (domestic only, international travel will not be required), cost of materials, logistics, workshops, and report presentation costs. Offerors should include a budget for establishing and monitoring experimental sites.

B. EVALUATION CRITERIA

The Government intends to award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible Offeror whose quotation conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government. The following factors shall be used to evaluate quotations (in descending order of importance):

1. Key Personnel: The Offeror will be evaluated based on qualifications and experience of key personnel and the extent to which the proposed key personnel demonstrate the offeror’s ability to meet the requirements in the SOW.

2. Technical Approach and feasibility: The Offeror’s technical approach will be evaluated on the research protocol proposed in response to this statement of work and the feasibility and appropriateness of the proposed schedule.

3. Cost: The Offeror’s total price will be evaluated in determining the best value. In in addition, the reasonableness of the amounts for each deliverable will be evaluated.

USAID may, without discussion or negotiations, offer a purchase order to the responsive, responsible contractor whose quotation conforms to the Statement of Work (SOW) and offers the best value based on the evaluation criteria. Therefore, quotations should contain the Offeror’s best terms. USAID may reject any or all quotations, award to the Offeror with other than the lowest-priced quotation, and waive informalities and minor irregularities in quotations received. Evaluation factors other than cost, when combined, are significantly more important than cost.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

The Government may award a contract without discussions with Offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1. Therefore, offerors are required to submit their best initial proposal submission from both a cost and a technical standpoint. USAID reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Contracting Officer determines them necessary.

(RFQ) # 72061322Q00003: Evaluation of effectiveness of mobile kraals in soil fertility management & crop productivity

ATTACHMENT 4: REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.204-7 SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (OCT 2018)

52.204-16 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY

CODE REPORTING

(AUG 2020)

52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN

TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT

(NOV 2021)

ANNUAL REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS (MAY 2022)

(a) (1) The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is__________________ [insert NAICS code].

(2) The small business size standard is _____________ [insert size standard].

(3) The small business size standard for a concern that submits an offer, other than on a construction or service acquisition, but proposes to furnish an end item that it did not itself manufacture, process, or produce is 500 employees if the acquisition—

(i)Is set aside for small business and has a value above the simplified acquisition threshold;

(ii)Uses the HUBZone price evaluation preference regardless of dollar value, unless the offeror waives the price evaluation preference; or

(iii)Is an 8(a), HUBZone, service-disabled veteran-owned, economically disadvantaged women-owned, or women-owned small business set-aside or sole-source award regardless of dollar value.

(b) (1) If the provision at 52.204-7, System for Award Management, is included in this solicitation, paragraph (d) of this provision…