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Call for EOIs: Strengthening Diagnostic Networks (Côte d’Ivoire)

Grant to Support Community-Based Program (United States)

Deadline: 07-Apr-2026

UNICEF is inviting expressions of interest to strengthen diagnostic systems and expand access to essential disease testing in Côte d’Ivoire. The program focuses on health system strengthening, point-of-care diagnostics, data management, workforce capacity, and community engagement to improve disease detection and public health outcomes.

Overview

This initiative aims to enhance diagnostic capacity and accessibility across Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in the Savanes and Sassandra-Marahoue regions, by focusing on:

Why It Matters

Diagnostic testing is underutilized in many low- and middle-income countries, where clinical diagnosis often takes precedence due to limited laboratory access. Strengthening diagnostic systems:

Who Is Eligible?

Key Focus Areas

  1. Diagnostic Network Optimization:
    • Use data-driven approaches such as Diagnostic Network Analysis.
    • Improve coordination across districts and lab networks.
  2. Point-of-Care Testing:
    • Deploy rapid diagnostic tests to underserved areas.
    • Ensure faster, accessible testing with real-time results.
  3. Workforce Capacity-Building:
    • Train healthcare workers in testing, data management, and quality control.
    • Strengthen local health teams to sustain diagnostic services.
  4. Sample Transport and Logistics:
    • Improve referral systems to minimize delays.
    • Optimize transport networks for efficiency and reliability.
  5. Data and Digital Tools:
    • Update laboratory information systems and tracking tools.
    • Improve data-driven decision-making for resource allocation.
  6. Community Engagement:
    • Train community health workers for active case finding.
    • Increase awareness and demand for testing services.

How to Apply / How It Works

  1. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Demonstrate capacity to support diagnostic system strengthening.
  2. Detail Implementation Plan: Include approach for workforce training, point-of-care testing, logistics, and community engagement.
  3. Demonstrate Impact: Show expected improvements in disease detection, health outcomes, and system efficiency.
  4. Coordinate with UNICEF: Work with local health authorities and partners to ensure alignment and scalability.

Best Practices & Tips

Expected Outcomes

FAQs

1. Which regions are prioritized?
Savanes and Sassandra-Marahoue, with potential expansion to other underserved areas.

2. What diseases are targeted?
HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and cervical cancer, with potential for other essential diagnostic services.

3. Can organizations outside Côte d’Ivoire apply?
Yes, international organizations may participate, provided they collaborate with local stakeholders.

4. What is point-of-care testing?
Rapid diagnostic testing conducted near the patient, enabling faster and more accessible results.

5. How does community engagement work?
Through training community health workers, awareness campaigns, and promoting active case finding.

6. What role does data management play?
It supports surveillance, improves diagnostic network efficiency, and informs evidence-based decision-making.

7. How is sustainability ensured?
By strengthening local capacity, optimizing networks, and embedding diagnostic services into routine health systems.

Conclusion

UNICEF’s initiative in Côte d’Ivoire provides a comprehensive approach to modernize diagnostic systems, increase access to essential testing, and improve public health outcomes. By combining workforce development, point-of-care technologies, data-driven strategies, and community engagement, the program aims to create lasting impact for disease management and health system resilience.

For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.

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