Supporting the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in the implementation and expansion of Blood Safety activities in the Republic of Zambia under the President’s Emergency plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) | Apply Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the title of this funding opportunity?

This opportunity is titled "Supporting the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in the implementation and expansion of Blood Safety activities in the Republic of Zambia under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)."

Who is offering this funding?

The award is issued by HHS/CDC (the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

What type of funding mechanism is used?

This is a discretionary grant issued under a cooperative agreement mechanism, which typically means CDC expects more active involvement and partnership with the recipient than under a standard grant.

What is the funding opportunity number?

The funding opportunity number is CDC RFA GH16-1709.

What is the CFDA number associated with this opportunity?

The CFDA number listed for this opportunity is 93.067.

What is the main purpose of this cooperative agreement?

The core purpose is to strengthen Zambia's national system for safe blood and blood products by helping the government-mandated institution responsible for the national blood supply improve and expand how blood is collected, screened, and distributed to health facilities across the country.

Which country is the focus of this program?

The program is focused on the Republic of Zambia.

Which institution is the intended implementing body?

Based on the description, the intended recipient is the government-mandated national institution responsible for collecting, screening, and distributing blood and blood products in Zambia, which points to the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS).

What activities does the opportunity emphasize strengthening or expanding?

The opportunity emphasizes strengthening and expanding blood safety activities, specifically improving and expanding blood collection, screening, and distribution to health facilities.

What does "blood safety" mean in the context of this opportunity?

In this context, "blood safety" refers to ensuring that blood and blood products are collected, screened, and distributed in ways that maintain strong safety standards so they are safe for patients who need transfusions.

Is the opportunity focused only on increasing the total volume of blood?

No. The opportunity emphasizes both adequacy and equitable access, meaning it focuses not only on increasing the total amount of safe blood available but also on ensuring blood and blood products reach patients throughout the country in a fair and practical way, including in underserved areas.

How does the opportunity address access in underserved areas?

The opportunity explicitly stresses equitable access, including reaching patients in underserved areas, as part of ensuring blood and blood products are distributed fairly and practically across the country.

Does the opportunity mention affordability or sustainability?

Yes. It stresses that blood services should be cost-effective and affordable, reflecting an interest in systems that can be sustained and operated efficiently while maintaining strong safety standards.

How does this work connect to PEPFAR?

The activity is framed under the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), recognizing that safe transfusion services are essential to PEPFAR-supported health priorities and outcomes.

What public health outcomes is this program intended to support?

By reinforcing the safety and availability of blood services, the program aims to support outcomes that depend on reliable transfusion services, including reducing child mortality, improving maternal health, and contributing to control of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases where transfusions can be lifesaving.

Does the opportunity indicate alignment with national plans or targets?

Yes. It is framed around meeting set national goals, objectives, and targets, implying alignment with Zambia's health strategies and performance expectations for blood safety and transfusion services.

How many awards were expected to be made?

CDC expected to make one award.

What is the maximum (ceiling) amount for the award?

The award ceiling is $1,353,644.

When was the announcement created and posted?

The announcement was created and posted on October 26, 2015.

What was the application closing date?

The application closing date was December 26, 2015.

What is the eligibility category listed for applicants?

Eligibility is listed broadly as "Others," with additional eligibility clarification referenced in the full announcement text.

Does the description clarify who is considered eligible in practice?

Yes. The description makes clear the intended recipient is the government-mandated national institution responsible for the national blood supply in Zambia, pointing directly to the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) as the central implementing body.

What health funding activity category is associated with this opportunity?

The opportunity is listed under the health funding activity category.

What parts of the blood supply chain are specifically highlighted?

The description specifically highlights improving and expanding collection, screening, and distribution of blood and blood products to health facilities.

Why are transfusion services described as foundational for broader health priorities?

The opportunity notes that safe transfusion services are essential for routine care as well as for emergency and infectious disease-related treatment needs, which is why strengthening these services supports broader priorities like maternal and child health and control of infectious diseases.