Lake Malawi Fisheries Conservation Project

Background
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Malawi is in the process of designing a project tentatively called “Lake Malawi Fisheries Conservation Project”. The purpose of this Request for Information (RFI) is to solicit public feedback on the attached draft concept and identify qualified organizations capable of implementing the activity. Through this RFI, USAID/Malawi is conducting market research by publicly consulting with interested organizations and individuals to provide information, opinions, and recommendations on approaches for the implementation of a potential project aimed at strengthening fisheries management to promote conservation of the lake’s exceptional biodiversity and reinforce the trajectory toward achieving Malawi’s goal of self-reliance.

The RFI calls for interested individuals and organizations to provide recommendations to help reduce threats to Lake Malawi's biodiversity while bolstering Malawi capacity and resilience.

Grant Details
The draft concept note outlines the purpose and vision of the Lake Malawi Fisheries Conservation Project, seeking to strengthen economic, regulatory, and social governance mechanisms that effectively conserve the exceptional biodiversity of Lake Malawi and deliver sustainable, profitable, and equitable wild-caught fisheries in priority areas of the Lake. The document also includes a Situation Model describing Threats and Drivers to Lake Malawi’s Biodiversity, highlighting threats such as illegal and unsustainable fishing practices, climate change, aquaculture expansion, land-based pollution, and coastal development.

It also discusses drivers behind these threats including governance challenges, economic forces, social representation and civil society, as well as regulatory challenges.

Eligibility Requirements
USAID/Malawi will accept responses from all interested organizations or individuals. Partial responses are also welcome.

Period of Performance
Anticipated funding for this activity is between $15 and $17 million over a 5-year implementation period.

Grant Value
$15 - $17 million over a 5-year implementation period

Place of Performance
The specific geographic location for this grant opportunity is Lake Malawi in Malawi.