Strengthening economic analysis and capacity in support of program management for HIV, TB, and related health threats in South Africa (SA) under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) with the opportunity number CDC-RFA-JG-25-0056 aims to enhance economic analysis and capacity for HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and related health issues in South Africa under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Applications are due on February 20, 2025, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time, with an expected award date of September 30, 2025. This initiative will utilize economic evaluation and modeling to support program management, improve resource allocation, and increase program efficiency. It emphasizes building local capacity for such analyses while aligning with South Africa's strategic health priorities. The program seeks to optimize the use of limited funding in South Africa, where HIV prevalence remains high, and TB continues to be a significant public health threat. It focuses on three main strategies: conducting economic evaluations, designing studies to understand behavior and program uptake, and strengthening the capacity of the South African Department of Health (DoH) to perform economic analyses. The outcomes aim to increase the efficiency of health resource use, improve program design, and establish a culture of data-driven decision-making in public health programs. This aligns with achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets for HIV by 2025 and sustaining gains in epidemic control. Funding for the first year is expected to total $400,000 across one to two awards, with a five-year project performance period. Applicants must allocate funds for data monitoring and evaluation, with 5% and 10% of total funds, respectively. While there are no cost-sharing requirements, the NOFO strongly encourages PEPFAR local partner participation, granting a 30-point preference to eligible local organizations during merit review. Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities, from state and local governments to nonprofits, educational institutions, and for-profit organizations, provided the projects are conducted in South Africa. Applicants must submit a project abstract, a 20-page project narrative, and supporting documentation, including work plans, budgets, organizational charts, and key personnel resumes. They must demonstrate capacity in economic evaluation, resource management, and program implementation. Evaluation criteria include approach (25 points), organizational capacity (50 points), and data monitoring and evaluation (25 points). PEPFAR-specific terms, such as the focus on marginalized populations, reducing stigma, and addressing health disparities, also apply. Key dates include the release of notifications by August 2025. Applications are to be submitted via Grants.gov, and assistance is available through the contact details provided in the NOFO. Post-award, recipients must comply with federal requirements and submit performance and financial reports, including annual evaluations and data management plans. CDC will provide technical oversight, support capacity-building efforts, and ensure alignment with South Africa's national health strategies.