Strengthening Services for Children, Adolescents, Youth and Families in the HIV Epidemic in Eswatini Activity

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) South Africa is seeking to procure a comprehensive HIV prevention and support program for children, adolescents, youth, and families in Eswatini. The Request for Information (RFI) aims to gather market research and stakeholder input for an upcoming activity focused on strengthening HIV epidemic control services. Key contract objectives include providing HIV testing and treatment support, life skills education, gender-based violence prevention, economic strengthening for vulnerable youth, and case management services. Respondents are required to submit a 5-page narrative response addressing specific program implementation questions and a 1-page capabilities statement describing their experience in Eswatini. The RFI response deadline is January 10, 2025, at 17:00 Local Time, with submissions to be sent to proposals@usaid.gov. USAID plans to hold an Industry Day Conference in Mbabane, Eswatini to facilitate networking and address potential questions about the upcoming funding opportunity.

The pre-solicitation notice does not indicate any specific set-aside designations for the contract. The program will focus on the Shiselweni and Lubombo regions, targeting vulnerable children aged 0-17, girls and boys aged 10-14 in high-prevalence areas, adolescent girls and young women aged 10-29 at high risk, and adolescent boys and young men. While the exact budget and mechanism type are to be determined, the activity will build upon existing DREAMS and Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) initiatives. The program emphasizes sustainability through transitioning services to government control and localizing service delivery. Implementation will require capacity building of local organizations, incorporating innovative approaches, ensuring gender equality considerations, and implementing child safeguarding measures. The geographic coverage and resource allocation will be assessed annually based on epidemiological data and alignment with other donor investments.