The Guinea Local Health System Strengthening (GLHSS) Annual Program Statement (APS), issued by USAID/Guinea, is designed to improve local health systems in targeted geographic areas, ensuring higher-quality healthcare for Guineans. The APS serves as an umbrella document under which multiple funding Rounds may be released, each focusing on specific programmatic priorities within the broader GLHSS objectives. The initiative aligns with USAID/Guinea’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) for 2021-2025 and emphasizes sustainable health system improvements, democratic governance, and data-driven decision-making.

Eligibility for funding under this APS is broad, welcoming applications from U.S. and non-U.S. organizations, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based organizations, and private sector entities. The initiative prioritizes a bottom-up, community-driven approach, with a strong focus on gender equality, youth inclusion, and private sector engagement. Applications are expected to propose innovative solutions to key health system challenges such as accessibility, affordability, supply chain management, human resources, social and behavior change, and governance. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate how they will leverage partnerships, local resources, and cost-sharing mechanisms.

GLHSS funding is structured around a phased application process. Initially, applicants submit a concept paper that is reviewed for alignment with program objectives. Shortlisted applicants may then be invited to participate in co-creation workshops or submit full applications. The selection process involves evaluation criteria focusing on the technical merit, sustainability, and potential impact of the proposed initiatives. Awards may be in the form of grants or cooperative agreements, with a performance period not exceeding five years. The APS does not guarantee funding, as awards depend on the availability of funds and the quality of applications received.

The initiative aims to enhance health outcomes through improved service delivery, supply chain efficiency, and community engagement. Priority regions include Boké, Kindia, and Labé, along with five communes in Conakry, covering approximately 50% of Guinea’s population. Specific areas of intervention include strengthening maternal and child health services, malaria prevention and treatment, family planning, and addressing gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. GLHSS integrates health system strengthening with broader governance reforms, ensuring increased accountability and transparency in health service management.

Monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) are integral to GLHSS implementation. Applicants must develop a comprehensive MEL plan to track progress, measure impact, and facilitate adaptive management. USAID will actively collaborate with grantees to ensure that program objectives are met, with periodic evaluations and stakeholder engagement to refine strategies. The initiative also emphasizes resilience and adaptability, allowing for adjustments in response to emerging health crises or shifts in the local context.

The APS outlines USAID’s guiding principles, including sustainability, conflict sensitivity, and inclusive development. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate a clear pathway for long-term impact, reducing reliance on donor funding over time. Engagement with local governments, civil society organizations, and private sector actors is encouraged to build a self-reliant health system. As funding opportunities under this APS are released in Rounds, interested organizations should monitor USAID’s Business Forecast and Grants.gov for updates on specific funding opportunities.