Strengthening and modernizing sustainable public health systems and workforce in Uganda for data science, informatics, surveys, and surveillance for timely, accurate, and integrated data for action under PEPFAR

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled Strengthening and Modernizing Sustainable Public Health Systems and Workforce in Uganda for Data Science, Informatics, Surveys, and Surveillance for Timely, Accurate, and Integrated Data for Action under PEPFAR is an initiative by the CDC's Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis. Its purpose is to collaborate with Uganda’s Ministry of Health (MOH) to modernize and enhance public health data systems, workforce capabilities, and surveillance infrastructure. The funding opportunity aims to address data and knowledge gaps through non-research activities like surveys and disease surveillance. Applications are due by February 18, 2025, with awards expected to commence on September 30, 2025. This program seeks to support the Ugandan Government and MOH in developing robust data systems to improve health outcomes and decision-making related to HIV and other public health threats. The initiative focuses on data science, surveillance, and informatics to strengthen epidemic intelligence, reduce the incidence of HIV and tuberculosis, and improve the overall health infrastructure. Key outcomes include a sustainable public health workforce, enhanced HIS infrastructure, improved surveillance and analytics capacity, and data-driven health policy formulation. The funding scope includes up to $20 million in Year 1 for 1-2 cooperative agreements, with an anticipated five-year period of performance. Eligible applicants include government entities, nonprofits, for-profits, academic institutions, and foreign organizations. However, the proposed project must be conducted in Uganda. Applications will be scored on approach, organizational capacity, and monitoring and evaluation plans, with additional preference points awarded to local partners under PEPFAR definitions. The program explicitly excludes research activities. Applicants must follow a structured submission process, including preparing a project narrative (limited to 20 pages), a budget narrative, and supporting attachments like experience statements, job descriptions, and organizational charts. A detailed work plan for the first year and a high-level outline for subsequent years are also required. Submissions must be made through Grants.gov, and applicants are encouraged to ensure compliance with registration and submission requirements well in advance of the deadline. The evaluation process involves a merit review, with criteria emphasizing innovative approaches to capacity building, data modernization, and public health workforce development. Applicants must demonstrate a history of effective collaboration with the Ugandan MOH and substantial experience in public health data systems and surveillance. Additionally, applications must include a data management and evaluation plan to ensure performance monitoring and alignment with PEPFAR’s strategic goals. Awardees will be responsible for rigorous reporting, including annual performance reports, expenditure reporting, and evaluations. Post-award monitoring by the CDC will assess progress and compliance, with technical support provided as needed. The program also emphasizes the importance of integrating activities into Uganda's national health strategies to ensure sustainability and local ownership of outcomes. For assistance or questions, applicants can contact the CDC program officer or Grants.gov support services. More details, including application checklists and required documentation, are available in the NOFO package. This initiative represents a critical opportunity to strengthen Uganda’s public health infrastructure and contribute to the global fight against HIV/AIDS and related health challenges.