The USAID Maisha Bora Activity is a new initiative aimed at addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri. This activity will support the prevention of GBV, the mitigation of its impacts, and the provision of comprehensive services for survivors. With a focus on both conflict-related and non-conflict-related GBV, the program seeks to address underlying social norms, empower survivors, and strengthen community resilience.

The program has five key objectives: 1) providing medical, psychosocial, and legal support to GBV survivors, 2) improving access to livelihoods for survivors and marginalized populations, 3) promoting positive gender norms, 4) supporting local advocacy against GBV, and 5) reducing stigma to enhance survivor reintegration. The initiative aligns with USAID’s broader development objectives in the DRC, promoting inclusivity and equity by protecting the rights of underrepresented and marginalized groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities, and sexual minorities.

The funding for this cooperative agreement is anticipated to be approximately $9 million for the initial three-year period, with a potential extension for an additional two years. The estimated total project funding is $15 million over five years, pending the success of the initial phase and the availability of funds. USAID plans to award one cooperative agreement under this opportunity, and the selected applicant must demonstrate the capacity to manage technical and financial aspects of the project.

Eligible applicants must be local entities based in the DRC, as defined by USAID regulations. These include nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, and other local groups legally organized under Congolese law. Organizations must be majority-owned and managed by Congolese citizens or lawful permanent residents. All applicants must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The application process consists of three phases: concept submission, co-creation with USAID, and the submission of a full technical and cost application. Initial concept papers, due on November 15, 2024, must outline the technical approach, management and staffing plans, and organizational capacity to meet the program's objectives. USAID will evaluate these submissions based on technical merit, management capabilities, and relevant experience. The co-creation phase will involve collaboration between the selected applicant and USAID to finalize the activity's details.

Overall, the Maisha Bora Activity represents a significant opportunity for local organizations in the DRC to contribute to the prevention and response to GBV, with a strong emphasis on multisectoral collaboration and sustainable impact at the community level.