The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) issued Amendment 02 to its Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) No. 72067424RFA00008, which focuses on achieving and sustaining HIV/TB epidemic control in the Free State Province of South Africa. This amendment, effective March 7, 2024, updates requirements for concept paper submissions due by April 4, 2024, while addressing applicant queries regarding the program.
Key changes include modifying the structure of the concept paper by removing the organizational capacity section from the initial specification, as well as clarifying expectations around staffing, budget allocations, and project criteria. Important details include that applicants must submit the concept papers to designated email addresses and that the cover page does not count toward the 10-page limit.
USAID remains focused on the two high HIV burden districts while allowing for flexibility based on changing epidemiological needs. The project aims to address healthcare delivery and retention for individuals living with HIV, emphasizing concise proposals. Overall, the amendment maintains critical requirements while making necessary adjustments to facilitate a smoother application process for potential grant recipients.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for a cooperative agreement to achieve and sustain HIV/TB epidemic control in the Free State Province, South Africa. The initiative is set to provide up to $54 million over five years, focusing on two high-burden districts: Thabo Mofutsanyana and Lejweleputswa. Eligible submissions must come from local entities, and the application process involves a phased approach—Phase One requires concept paper submissions by April 4, 2024.
The program aims to ensure improved health outcomes by closing gaps in HIV/TB management, strengthening health systems, and leveraging community partnerships. Key objectives include enhancing treatment and care for adults and pediatric populations, addressing the challenges posed by co-infection, and implementing strategic community outreach. USAID emphasizes locally-led approaches, integrating civil society participation to ensure sustainable health service delivery.
The document underscores the pressing context of South Africa's high HIV/TB prevalence, detailing the socio-economic and health system challenges faced in the Free State Province. It sets the stage for collaborative efforts in tackling these public health crises while promoting resilience in health care delivery systems through sustained partnerships and innovative practices. Regular updates and modifications to the NOFO will be available on Grants.gov.