The "Strengthening Systems for Health Security Activity" (SSHS), funded by USAID/Peru, aims to bolster Peru's capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious diseases and health threats, ensuring national and global health security. This initiative emphasizes creating sustainable systems to manage zoonotic diseases, improving disease surveillance, and enhancing the health security workforce. It aligns with the Global Health Security Agenda, emphasizing the "One Health" approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health to address interconnected health challenges.

The program will address three main objectives: reducing disease transmission between animals and humans, enhancing surveillance systems for early disease detection, and developing a skilled health security workforce. Its implementation involves robust monitoring, evaluation, and a continuous learning framework to ensure adaptability and effectiveness. Additionally, the activity incorporates cross-cutting principles such as health equity, climate resilience, digital innovation, and private sector engagement.

Funding for this five-year program totals $19 million, with a mandatory 10% cost-sharing requirement from participants. Eligibility is broad, welcoming applications from U.S. and international organizations, including faith-based entities and groups without prior USAID funding experience. Applications should be carefully prepared, reflecting technical competence, strategic management, and a commitment to the program's objectives.

Submission deadlines are firm: applications are due by December 20, 2024, and questions must be submitted by November 15, 2024. A "Business Day" event in Lima on November 7, 2024, will provide opportunities for collaboration and networking. Required registrations include a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and SAM.gov registration. Key submission components include a detailed technical proposal, a budget narrative, compliance certifications, and other documentation.

Evaluation criteria prioritize technical soundness, innovation, effective resource mobilization, health equity, and sustainable impact. The process also includes risk assessments to ensure applicants can fulfill the program's objectives responsibly. Performance will be closely monitored through established indicators, with a focus on achieving measurable improvements in health security systems and equity.

Applicants must adhere to USAID's stringent reporting requirements, including detailed work plans, performance reports, and financial documentation. All activities must comply with U.S. government fiscal year timelines and the terms outlined in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). This initiative represents a comprehensive effort to strengthen Peru's health security framework while fostering collaboration, learning, and adaptability.