Strengthening Global Health Security Program in Animal Health Sector

The document is a Request for Information (RFI) from USAID/Uganda concerning a potential program aimed at strengthening the Global Health Security Program in the animal health sector. The primary purpose of this RFI is to gather feedback from potential organizations that can provide services in several technical areas related to animal health, including zoonotic disease prevention, laboratory and surveillance systems, human resources, and information systems within Uganda. It is emphasized that the RFI is not a solicitation for proposals but a means to assess the capacity of local and international organizations and guide future program development. The objectives of this initiative focus on improving animal health systems in Uganda, particularly to enhance the country's ability to prevent, detect, and respond to zoonotic diseases—those that can be transmitted from animals to humans. The RFI also aims to identify organizations capable of strengthening laboratory and surveillance systems for animal health, as well as managing human resources and improving information systems within the sector. The scope of the program primarily relates to animal health as a critical component of global health security, considering the significant role that animals play in the transmission of diseases to humans. Organizations that specialize in one or more of the following areas are being targeted: zoonotic disease control, laboratory and surveillance infrastructure, workforce development for animal health professionals, and the enhancement of data management systems in the sector. The intent is to work closely with local entities and build the capacity of Ugandan institutions in these areas. Eligibility is open to a wide range of entities, including private for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, and community-based organizations. While the program welcomes feedback from international actors, there is a clear preference for collaboration with local Ugandan organizations to strengthen in-country systems and partnerships. Responses to the RFI will help USAID/Uganda understand the interest, experience, and technical capacity of organizations that may contribute to this project. Interested organizations are required to submit their responses by September 27, 2024, to the designated email address. Responses should be concise and adhere to specific formatting requirements, including the use of the provided template and a maximum length of three pages. Organizations are encouraged to provide information on their experience in the relevant technical areas, their operational capacities, and their ability to collaborate with local entities. The evaluation criteria for the RFI focus on the organization’s capacity in terms of past experience in the animal health sector, particularly regarding zoonotic disease control and health system strengthening. The RFI also seeks input on organizations’ experience in managing subcontractors and handling funding awards from international donors, such as USAID or the CDC. This information will guide the development of any potential future solicitations or partnerships. Although this RFI does not obligate USAID/Uganda to issue a formal solicitation, it allows the agency to better understand the timeline and resources required to implement a program in Uganda’s animal health sector. Depending on the feedback received, USAID may issue future Requests for Proposals (RFPs) or Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) as part of its broader strategy to enhance global health security.