The CDC's funding opportunity titled “Provide Technical Assistance to the Botswana Ministry of Health to Implement HIV/TB Policies and Services for Children and Adolescents Living with HIV” aims to improve health outcomes for children, adolescents, and pregnant and breastfeeding women in Botswana. This program aligns with the goals of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and supports Botswana’s Ministry of Health (MOH) in addressing HIV/TB service gaps through person-centered, quality care approaches.

Key program strategies include optimizing HIV/TB case identification and treatment initiation, strengthening retention and treatment outcomes for young populations living with HIV, integrating mental health and psychosocial support, and preventing vertical transmission of HIV. The initiative will also focus on economic empowerment activities and scaling up effective models such as Operation Triple Zero to improve adherence, viral suppression, and retention in care among adolescents and young adults.

Eligible applicants include a broad range of organization types, both domestic and international, such as government entities, nonprofits, for-profits, academic institutions, and tribal organizations. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to implement the described strategies, provide relevant experience, and collaborate effectively with local and international stakeholders. Preference is given to local partners meeting PEPFAR's local partner criteria.

The program anticipates funding one to two cooperative agreements, with up to $1.5 million available for Year 1. Funding for subsequent years will depend on performance, program priorities, and funding availability, supporting a five-year project period beginning September 30, 2025. Cost-sharing or matching funds are not required. Applications must include detailed narratives, budgets, and performance measurement plans, with submissions due by February 19, 2025.

Proposals will be evaluated on the strength of their approach (35 points), organizational capacity (40 points), and data monitoring and evaluation plans (25 points). Up to 30 additional points are awarded for local partners meeting PEPFAR criteria. Awards are based on merit review, with consideration for program alignment and geographic priorities. Successful applicants will engage in regular reporting and evaluation activities and collaborate with the CDC for technical oversight and guidance throughout the project.

Awardees must adhere to all CDC and PEPFAR reporting standards, including routine performance and financial reports. The program’s overarching goal is to achieve equitable, sustainable, and high-quality HIV/TB care services, enhancing Botswana’s progress toward epidemic control and the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.