The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the "Surveillance, Operational Research, and Optimization of Knowledge-sharing for Action activity" (SOROKA) in Madagascar. This initiative, with an estimated budget of $7.5 million, aims to enhance public health by improving data collection, management, and synthesis efforts to address health threats like malaria, maternal and child health, and global health security.
Eligible local entities can apply for a Cooperative Agreement, with the application deadline set for February 10, 2025. The program emphasizes local capacity-building, research, and the implementation of robust surveillance systems to inform health strategies. Key objectives focus on improving surveillance capacity, increasing the ability to lead and implement research, and enhancing public sector utilization of epidemiological data for health actions.
The document outlines comprehensive submission requirements, eligibility criteria, application content, and evaluation metrics. It aims to align with USAID's broader strategic objectives in Madagascar, fostering sustainable development and health resilience through localized initiatives, active stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based policy-making. The SOROKA activity stands as a pivotal effort in addressing the pressing health challenges faced by Madagascar's population while aiming for self-reliance in health governance.
The memo issued by USAID/Madagascar on March 20, 2023, outlines revised rates and eligibility criteria for in-country per diem, lodging, transportation payments, and stipends for Community Health Volunteers (CHVs), replacing the previous memo from May 6, 2021. It addresses concerns raised by the Ministry of Public Health and local governance regarding per diem rates, incorporating input from various stakeholders and cost considerations.
Key changes include:
1. **Per Diem Rates**: Defined eligibility includes travel over 8 hours away from regular work sites, with specific financial limits based on location (MGA 150,000 for regional capitals, MGA 100,000 for district centers). Deductions apply when meals or lodging are provided.
2. **Transportation Costs**: Reimbursement for travel may be requested, with specified rates for local travel and airport transfers.
3. **Stipends for CHVs**: Payments are established for training and campaign activities, with set rates for meals and lodging.
Furthermore, the document prohibits double payments for transportation or per diem from multiple donors. It also emphasizes collaboration among partners to ensure compliance with these harmonized rates. For any discrepancies between this memo and existing contracts, the terms of the contract will prevail.
This memo from USAID Madagascar outlines revised policies regarding per diem, lodging, transportation payments, and stipends for Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) effective March 20, 2023. It replaces a previous memo from May 6, 2021, and sets new rates influenced by discussions with the Ministry of Public Health and other stakeholders. Key components include:
1. **Per Diem Rates**: Eligible travelers on official duties can claim per diem based on location (MGA 150,000 for Regional Capitals, MGA 100,000 for other areas) with reductions if meals or lodging are provided. Conditions for receiving per diem include travel exceeding 8 hours away from the usual workplace.
2. **Transportation**: Reimbursement for travel costs requires receipts, with specific fixed rates set for daily transport and airport transfers.
3. **CHV Stipends**: CHVs earn stipends for absences over eight hours related to training or campaigns, with specific daily rates for meals and lodging.
4. **Payment Restrictions**: Payments should not overlap from multiple sources.
These updated guidelines aim to enhance collaboration and streamline financial interactions with various stakeholders in Madagascar's public health sector. For further clarifications, USAID encourages contacting the Acquisition and Assistance Specialists. The memo underscores USAID's commitment to equitable and transparent financial practices within its operations.
The USAID Access Miahy Notice of Funding Opportunity seeks applications for grants aimed at improving health outcomes in Madagascar, focusing on maternal and child health, and health system resilience through primary health care (PHC). Issued on October 7, 2024, with a closing date of November 27, 2024, the program emphasizes strengthening local health systems and increasing access to quality services for underserved populations. Key objectives include enhancing the capacity of the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH), addressing health service challenges, and fostering community engagement to promote healthy behaviors.
The initiatives will target various health issues, such as high maternal and child mortality rates, inadequate access to health facilities, malnutrition, and mental health services. The activity aligns with USAID’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy and incorporates key considerations for sustainability, local capacity building, and gender equity. The program is designed to engage local entities and enhance collaboration with the private sector while implementing monitoring and evaluation strategies for continuous improvement. The geographic scope covers several regions of Madagascar, responding dynamically to emerging health needs. Overall, the Access Miahy program aims to create a self-reliant health system that delivers equitable health services and improves health outcomes effectively.