Deadline: 15-Dec-2025
UNICEF, co-financed by the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, has launched a funding opportunity to select service providers for the HER AF2 and SAFE projects in Afghanistan. The projects focus on delivering essential health services, including maternal, newborn, and child health, immunization, and health systems strengthening across 34 provinces from July 2025 to December 2026. The initiative aims to improve health outcomes, reduce mortality, and enhance nutrition through contracted NGOs and capacity-building support.
Overview of the Opportunity
UNICEF, in partnership with the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, is inviting proposals from eligible service providers to deliver essential health services under the HER AF2 and SAFE projects. These projects aim to ensure equitable access to and the quality of health services in Afghanistan, covering 34 provinces through the Basic Package of Health Services (BPHS) and Essential Package of Hospital Services (EPHS).
The funding supports a contracting-out model where NGOs serve as service providers, under the joint oversight of UNICEF, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank.
Focus Areas
The key health sectors supported under this opportunity include:
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Child health
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Maternal and newborn health, including emergency obstetric care
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Health systems strengthening
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Immunization
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Health in emergencies
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General health and complementary interventions
Program Goals
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Ensure effective delivery of BPHS and EPHS across all provinces
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Strengthen the capacity, accountability, and operational performance of service providers
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Reduce maternal, newborn, infant, and child mortality
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Lower the prevalence of communicable diseases
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Improve maternal and child nutrition
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Enhance equitable access to essential health services
Duration and Coverage
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Timeframe: 1 July 2025 – 31 December 2026
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Coverage: 34 provinces in Afghanistan
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Implementing Partners: NGOs contracted under UNICEF oversight
Who is Eligible?
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Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) experienced in health service delivery
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Service providers with capacity to operate in conflict-affected or emergency settings
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Entities capable of implementing BPHS, EPHS, and high-impact, value-added interventions
Why It Matters
This initiative is critical for improving Afghanistan’s health outcomes by:
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Providing essential services in both urban and rural provinces
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Ensuring continuity of health programs during crises
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Strengthening local health systems and service provider accountability
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Addressing high maternal and child mortality rates and poor nutrition
How to Apply / How It Works
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Confirm Eligibility: Verify NGO registration and experience in health service delivery.
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Prepare Proposal: Develop a project plan aligning with BPHS and EPHS objectives, including capacity-building and community engagement strategies.
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Define Activities and Outcomes: Specify service delivery activities, coverage areas, and expected health outcomes.
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Submit Proposal: Follow UNICEF’s call for proposals submission process.
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Evaluation: Proposals are reviewed based on technical capacity, past performance, geographic coverage, and value for money.
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Contracting: Selected NGOs enter agreements with UNICEF to implement services under joint oversight.
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Monitoring and Reporting: Service providers report progress, health outcomes, and financial accountability to UNICEF and financing partners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting incomplete or non-compliant proposals
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Underestimating operational challenges in remote or insecure provinces
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Failing to demonstrate capacity for BPHS and EPHS service delivery
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Neglecting to include measurable health outcomes or monitoring plans
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which provinces are covered under this program? 34 provinces across Afghanistan.
2. Who can apply as a service provider? Registered NGOs with experience in health service delivery in Afghanistan.
3. What types of health services are included? Maternal, newborn, child health, immunization, health systems strengthening, and emergency health services.
4. What is the duration of the funding? From 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2026.
5. Are partnerships encouraged? Yes, collaboration with local NGOs, private sector, or community organisations is recommended.
6. How are proposals evaluated? Based on technical capacity, past experience, service coverage, and alignment with BPHS/EPHS goals.
7. Who oversees the projects? UNICEF serves as the executing agency with joint oversight by the World Bank and Asian Development Bank.
Conclusion
The HER AF2 and SAFE projects present a strategic opportunity for NGOs to strengthen health service delivery in Afghanistan. By improving maternal, newborn, and child health, enhancing nutrition, and strengthening health systems, this initiative aims to save lives, promote equity, and ensure continuity of essential health services across the country.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.