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Page 3 / 4Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for a Web-based Trade Information Portal Impl…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for a Web-based Trade Information Portal in L…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for Web-based Trade Information Portal Implem…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for Web-based Trade Information Portal Implem…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Imple…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for Web-based Trade Information Portal
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for a Web-based Trade Information Portal in L…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for a Web-based Trade Information Portal for …
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for Implementing a Web-based Trade Informatio…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Recruitment of Consultancy Firm for Web-based Trade Information Portal Implem…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MoCI) Liberia Investment, Finance & Trade Project (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia Email: [email protected] /www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRM SELECTION) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Project ID: P171997 Credit Number 7037-LR Grant Number D9690-LR Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia REF. No.: LR-MOCI-500831-CS-QCBS The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) Key Objectives of the Assignment The key objective of this assignment is to engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can found at the link below: hppt //: www.moci.gov.lr / www.emansion.gov.lr The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible Consulting Firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference provided below. The Consulting Firm should have a minimum qualifications and experience as follows: • During the past ten (10) years, the firm must have completed at least 2 contracts successfully involving the installation, preparation and provision of technical support for implementation of a Trade Information Portal. • Must have completed at least one of the above-mentioned contracts with value of at least USD 250,000.00 • The firm should have experience in the configuration and deployment of Trade Information Portals with preference for World Bank portal solution. • The firm should have experience on the delivery of a publicity campaign to popularise the use of the Trade Information Portal for both private and public sectors in a country. • The firm should have knowledge of development and trade issues of the Government of Liberia or similar countries in the Africa region Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016, Revised November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers (July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by fax, or by e-mail) on or before Thursday July 31, 2025, with subject: “Re: Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia”. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Insurance Building, 5th Street, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Tel: +231 88 682 2025 /776 654 713 Email: [email protected] Cc: /[email protected] /[email protected] Terms of Reference RECRUITMENT OF A CONSULTANCY FIRM TO COLLATE THE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A FUNCTIONAL WEB-BASED TRADE INFORMATION PORTAL (TIP) FOR LIBERIA | Post Title: | Recruitment of Consultancy Firm to Collate the Information and Support the Implementation of a Functional Web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia | Location of Post: | Department of Commerce and Trade Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, P. O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10-Liberia | Contract Duration: | 12 Months | Reporting Line: | Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade | Assignment Type: | Firm Recruitment (Open International) | Type of Contract | Lump Sum A. BACKGROUND International trade plays an important role in the economic development of any nation, including Liberia. As such, the Government of Liberia (GOL) is set to create the enabling environment for Liberia to increase its share of international trade. As a key part of efforts to make trade easier for the business community, the GOL has decided to operationalize and implement a functional web-based Trade Information Portal (TIP) for Liberia. A Trade Information Portal is recognized international good practice standard for transparent publication of trade information, aimed at fulfilling a country’s obligations under Article 1 of the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). This standard is published in UN/CEFACT’s Recommendation No. 38. Therefore, the objective of the Liberia TIP is to make all regulatory trade related information and other information useful to both foreign and Liberian importers and exporters easily and readily available in a single integrated website. The aim is to provide transparency and predictability of trade regulations and procedures and, in doing so, increase the compliance level and reduce the cost of doing business in the commerce of Liberia. In this regard, the core functionality of the proposed trade information portal is to provide the business community complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in its scope, user-friendly, interactive and easily accessible by using a single search engine. The trade portal is expected to initially store information relating to existing trade regulations and procedures, including but not limited to laws, administrative procedures and regulations, guidance notes, applicable fees, forms, licenses, permits and penalties applicable in case of breach. In addition, the portal should catalogue international, regional, continental, or bilateral trade agreements to which Liberia is a party, including the applicable rules and requirements as well as the benefits devolving there from. It is envisaged that the LTIP would be linked to a National Single Window to facilitate the easy application for trade related certificates, licenses and permits required for the import, export and transit of goods. This assignment will require the cooperation of all the government agencies involved in the trade process and border management, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry serving as the lead government institution for the implementation of the LTIP. This assignment is being implemented under the Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project implemented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with other sector institutions through a grant and loan initiative funded by the World Bank. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeks the services of an expert consultancy firm to carry out the data collection, populate and support the implementation of a functional web-based trade information portal. B. OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT To engage the services of an experienced consultancy firm to support the Government of Liberia in the development, population, and implementation of a functional, user-friendly, and sustainable Trade Information Portal. The portal will provide accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information on all trade-related laws, procedures, and documentation requirements in Liberia. C. SCOPE OF WORK It is envisaged that the assignment will comprise four main components, namely: • Inception phase leading to the development of an Implementation Plan for the assignment. • Collection of all relevant data and information and uploading of information to the generated website so that it is ready for public launch. • Design of a publicity and awareness campaign to advertise the trade information portal prior to the launch, and • Design of a package of survey and evaluation tools aimed at measuring the effectiveness of the portal on trade comprising initial baseline measurements. The data will be collected and loaded by the Consultancy Firm onto a website provided by the World Bank Group (WBG), which the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will be entitled to operate under the terms of the WBG’s standard Licensing Agreement. The website has been developed by using a software toolkit (the “Toolkit”) designed by the WBG, which is pre-defined to accommodate all the required classes of information. For purposes of clarity, this assignment will not involve any software development. The Consultancy Firm is required to engage a qualified sub-contractor (the “Sub-Contractor”), who is familiar with
Consultancy Services for Assessing and Mapping VSLA in Liberia
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for Assessing and Mapping VSLA — Central Bank of Liberia
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for Assessing and Mapping VSLA — Central Bank of Liberia
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Conducting Assess…
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for VSLA Assessment and Mapping
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for Assessing and Mapping VSLA in Liberia
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for VSLA Assessment and Mapping
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Consultancy Services for Assessing and Mapping VSLA in Liberia
GOVERNMENT OF LIBERIA Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministerial Complex Congo Town, Monrovia REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) June 2, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Procurement Method | Duration | • | Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 4 months Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed in the detailed Terms of Reference below. Applicants will be selected for the respective positions in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025). Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Friday June 13, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest to the addresses below only by email. Please indicate the title of the assignment in the subject of the email. Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel Acting Project Coordinator Project Implementation Unit (PIU) Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project Ministry of Commerce and Industry 5th Street, Sinkor , 2nd Floor Monrovia, Liberia Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Cc: [email protected] / [email protected] and [email protected], [email protected] Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. TERMS OF REFERENCE Post Tile: Consultancy Services to Support the Central Bank of Liberia in Mapping of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), and supporting the development of a Comprehensive VSLA database Location of Project: Central Bank of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia Contract Duration: Four (4) Months Report Line: Central Bank of Liberia and the LIFT-Project Coordinator in collaboration with the technical staff of the LIFT-P. Recruitment Type: Open National Type of Contract: Time Based Contract 1. Background The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), is implementing the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) with Project ID: P171997 financed by the International Development Association (IDA). The total project funding is US$40 million (US$20 million of IDA grant and US$20 million IDA Credit). This project was developed to support the government’s strategic objectives to promote private sector development. Accordingly, the project development objective is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, promote the digitalization of financial services, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia. The project’s sub-component 2.2 aims to support the growth and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating the provision of a line of credit (LOC) to eligible financial institutions onward lend to MSMEs that meet the eligibility criteria and can utilize the funds to grow and expand their businesses. In addition to financial support, the project will also provide technical assistance and training programs to both formal and informal lending institutions operating within the country. The objective of these programs is to enhance the capacity of the lending institutions to effectively assess the risk and viability of MSMEs. The project will help to improve Participating Financial Institutions' (PFIs) loan delivery systems, and risk management, and support innovative products for MSMEs. The Liberian financial sector is primarily made up of banks and NBFIs. It consists of nine commercial banks (including microfinance departments within commercial banks) and various non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), including 12 Rural Community Financial Institutions (RCFIs), less than five non-deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), two deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MDIs), approximately 275 credit unions, approximately 1,450 informal Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), one finance company, two mobile money operators, and 19 insurance companies. In Liberia, Non-bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), such as VSLAs play a crucial role in providing financial services and fostering economic development, particularly in rural areas of Liberia. However, there is a need for a comprehensive assessment and mapping of VSLAs across Liberia to understand their status, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, there is a necessity to develop a comprehensive database of VSLAs and their members, as well as to establish baseline information and geolocations of these associations. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The project is actively seeking a qualified individual consultant to assist the Central Bank of Liberia in the development of a comprehensive framework for supporting VSALs. This includes establishing a centralized, secure, and regularly updated database of VSLAs to enable them to access formal financial services and enhance their oversight, inform policy, and support financial inclusion initiatives. 3. SCOPE OF THE ASSIGNMENT The scope of services is broken down into the below phases: Phase 1: scoping and preparation for data collection • Identify active NGOs, community-based organizations and financial institutions, and donor projects supporting VSLAs to access reliable data, avoid duplication, and identify areas without adequate coverage of VSLAs. • Develop standardized templates/forms for data collection.this may include mobile/digital tools for field-level use, which would lay the groundwork for future automation and real-time updates. The data collection tools should be designed to capture: • Group-level data: name, location, founding year, affiliated NGO/partner, registration status (if any), and GPS coordinates. • Operational data: member count (male/female), total savings, etc. • Point of contact: chairperson/secretary name, phone number (optional/if consented). Phase 2: Data collection and clean up • Roll out template to identified stakeholders and partners and Train stakeholders on data collecton. • Conduct field visits in all 15 counties of Liberia to collect quantitative and qualitative data on VSLAs and their members, including demographic information, financial transactions, savings, and loan activities as well as information on their governance structures, financial management practices, outreach, and impact on communities. • Clean up and validate incoming data and consolidate to produce reliable baseline dataset that can be used for analysis, reporting, and future automation. Phase 3: Development of an automated V
Hiring of a Vendor for the Development and Deployment of an Integrated Credit In…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY LIBERIA INVESTMENT, FINANCE AND TRADE PROJECT (LIFT-P)INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFPs) (SINGLE STAGE, TWO ENVELOPS PROCESS– FIRM SELECTION) May 22, 2025 | No. | Assignment Title | Duration | • | Request for Proposals (RFPs) for the Supply, Installation and Commissioning of a Credit Reference System for the Central Bank of Liberia. RE. NO.: LR-MOCI-462281-GO-RFP | 2 years Background • The Government of the Republic of Liberia (hereinafter called “Borrower”) has been allocated grant and loan funds (the “Financing”) from The World Bank which are administered by the International Development Association (IDA) (the “Bank”) and executed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (“the Client”). The Client intends to apply the funds to eligible payments under the contract for which this Request for Proposals is issued. Payments by the Bank will be made only at the request of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and upon approval by the Bank, and will be subject, in all respects, to the terms and conditions of the grant and loan agreement. 2. The MOCI now invites sealed Proposals from interested and eligible Proposers for Supply, Installation and Commissioning of a Credit Reference System for the Central Bank of Liberia. More details on the Services are provided in the Terms of Reference (Section VII). 3. The procurement will be conducted through international competitive procurement using Request for Proposals (RFP) as specified in the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers- Procurement in Investment Projects Financing” dated July 2016, August 2017, September 2020 and September 2023 (“Procurement Regulations”), and is open to all interested and eligible Proposers. 4. Interested and eligible Proposers may obtain further information from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry through the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) to jsayekehnel- [email protected]/ [email protected] and Cc: jvanyanbah- [email protected] /[email protected] and fdahkahan- [email protected]/ [email protected] and inspect the request for proposals document during office hours from 0900 Hours GMT to 1600 Hours GMT at the address given below. 5. The request for proposal document in English Language may be purchased by interested and eligible Proposers upon the submission of a written application to the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee[1] of One Hundred Fifty United States Dollars (US$150.00). the method of payment will be direct payment to the project Account Title: Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project; Account No.: 6101905782 at ECOBANK Liberia and indicate “Payment for Supply, Installation and Commissioning of a Credit Reference System for the Central Bank of Liberia. The Request for Proposal document will be sent by email to the official email address indicated in the firm’s Letter of interest that must accompany the payment details. 6. Proposals must be delivered to the address specified below on or before Friday July 4, 2025. Electronic procurement will only be permitted for issuing of proposals, submission of proposals and subsequent communications including emails relating to this procurement. Late Proposals will be rejected. The outer Proposal envelopes marked “ORIGINAL PROPOSAL”, and the inner envelopes marked “TECHNICAL PART” will be publicly opened in the presence of the Proposers’ designated representatives and anyone who chooses to attend, at the address below on Friday July 4, 2025, at 1400 Hours GMT (2:00pm Local Time). All envelopes marked “FINANCIAL PART” shall remain unopened and will be held in safe custody of the Purchaser until the second public Proposal opening. 7. All Proposals must be accompanied by a Proposal Security of USD$ 25,000 (USD Twenty-Five Thousand United States Dollars). This shall be in Bank Guarantee or Manager’s Cheque acceptable to the client. 8. Attention is drawn to the Procurement Regulations requiring the Borrower to disclose information on the successful Proposer’s beneficial ownership, as part of the Contract Award Notice, using the Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Form as included in the request for proposals document. 9. The address (es) referred to above is (are): Ministry of Commerce and Industry Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attention: Julius Y. Saye Keh-nel. Acting Project Coordinator 2nd Floor, Insurance Plaza, 5th Street Sinkor, Monrovia Liberia Cell: 0777-777-201-863/ 0776-654-713 Email: [email protected] /[email protected] Cc: [email protected] /[email protected] and [email protected] / [email protected]
Hiring of Project Coordinator for the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through…
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY LIBERIA INVESTMENT, FINANCE AND TRADE PROJECT (LIFT-P) INSURANCE BUILDING, 5TH STREET-SINKOR, OPPOSITE CONEX GAS STATION MONROVIA, LIBERIA P.O. Box 9041, 1000 Monrovia, 10 Liberia www.moci.gov.lr REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (CONSULTING SERVICES) Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) RE-ADVERTISED March 28, 2025 | No. | Assignment Titles | Procurement Method | Duration | • | PROJECT COORDINATOR | Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) Method | 1 Year Background The Republic of Liberia through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry has received Financing from the International Development Association (IDA) towards the cost of implementing the Liberia Investment, Trade & Finance Project (LIFT-P) and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of the Financing towards payments under the contract for above mentioned position for the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI). under the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The overall objective of the LIFT-P is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia and help formal MSMEs recover from the impact of the COVID-19. The LIFT-P is an explicit contributor to the FY19-FY24 Country Partnership Framework (CPF) The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for this position can be found below. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry now invites eligible and interested Individual Applicants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the required Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the required Services. The shortlisting (qualification) criteria are listed as per the Terms of Reference. Applicants must have minimum qualifications and experience as per the Terms of Reference. Applicants will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant Selection (INDV) as set out in the World Bank Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 as Revised in November 2017, August 2018, November 2020, September 2023 and February 2025. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours, i.e., 0900 to 1600 hours GMT, Monday to Friday. The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interests is on Monday April 14, 2025. Please submit your Expressions of Interest with a letter of interest to the addresses below only by email indicating the position title in the subject line of the email. Please note that ONLY shortlisted Applicants will be contacted. Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade Project (LIFT-P) Attn: Joseph Blanco Human Resource Director First Floor, Commerce Building EJS Ministerial Complex, Congo Town Monrovia, Liberia E-mail: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] and [email protected] TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR PROJECT COORDINATOR Post Tile: Project Coordinator Location of Project: Project Implementation Unit-Ministry of Commerce and Industry, EJS Ministerial Complex, Tubman Boulevard, Congo Town Contract Duration: One (1) year with possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. Report Line: The Deputy Minister for Commerce and Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) Recruitment Type: National Position Type of Contract: Time Based Contract Background The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), has received a Project Preparation Advance (PPA) amount from the World Bank in preparation for the implementation of the Liberia Investment, Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project: P171997. MOCI intends to recruit a new Project Coordinator to lead the Project Implementation Unit established at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The overall objective of the LIFT-Project is to improve the investment climate, expand sustainable access to finance, and increase the efficiency of trade in Liberia and help formal MSMEs recover from the impact of the COVID-19 and other endogenous and exogenous factors impacting on the business environment and trade facilitation. The LIFT-Project is an explicit contributor to the FY2019-FY2024 Country Partnership Framework (CPF) Pillar I: Strengthening Institutions and Creating an Enabling Environment for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth. Specifically, the project implements Objective 3 of the CPF, that seeks a more enabling environment for the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The Project furthers the CPF’s objective by fostering the emergence of an inclusive private sector through a more hospitable investment climate, expanded access to finance, and stronger market governance. The LIFT Project envisions the removal of key regulatory constraints and will facilitate trade and expand access to finance. Specifically, it will focus on (i) the regulatory areas where Liberia ranks low on Doing Business indicators, (ii) implementation of the Financial Sector Development Implementation Plan and National Financial Inclusion Strategy, (iii) implementation of the Insolvency and Restructuring Law adopted in 2017, and (iv) support for Liberia’s implementation of commitments to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Trade Facilitation Agreement, since adoption of the long-awaited Customs Code. • The project supports Jobs and Economic Transformation (JET) framework for Liberia and its two pillars on which the outcomes sit: better market functioning and improved firm capabilities. In doing so, the project targets six of the ten-building block in this framework as a complement to other parallel activities under the Liberia CPF supporting macroeconomic management, infrastructure services, employment policy and human capital. The project takes account of the Government Recovery Program (GRP) project that seeks to support otherwise viable growth oriented private enterprises that were adversely impacted by the effects of the pandemic. As the mechanism for firm level support is structured, guardrails will be established to prevent adversely impacting financial discipline and commercial credit underwriting needed for a sustained recovery. At the same time, with various indicators highlighting access to finance as an issue, attention to expanding digital financial services (DFS) is needed. • In addition to its contribution to the Jobs agenda, the Project design supports a range of IDA priorities including Gender, Climate, Governance, Fragility, Conflict & Violence and Maximizing Finance for Development (MFD). The project will ensure that women-oriented training and eligibility will be included in firm support and financial access component by deliberately incorporating, in the design of project activities, features that seek to address the identified gaps between men and women with respect to their participation in economic activity in the country, especially around differential constraints and performance between women-owned and men-owned firms. These include the reforms to the business environment (e.g., registration, permits and access to finance), as well as activities to support SMEs and entrepreneurs. The project will monitor the extent to which activities are contributing toward closing gender gaps by measuring, among other things: (i) the number of women led MSMEs with a loan through the project; and (ii) the percentage of women that are covered by the credit registry. • Finally, as a foundational project to strengthen the public sector’s ability to facilitate growth of the private sector on a sustainable basis, significant efforts will be devoted to institution building activities in key agencies. In this light, the project’s concept identifies the strengthening of institutional functioning, streamlining of business processes and use of automation to lower costs, improve services and remove face-to face interactions. • The Project will be implemented in all 15 counties of Liberia for the next 5 years. Objective of the Assignment To lead and coordinate the implementation of the World Bank funded LIFT-Project and be fully responsible for its day-to-day management in such a manner as to ensure efficient and timely implementation of all project activities in accordance with the overall project implementation schedule for the five-year period and duly approve and/or revise Annual Work Plans and Budgets and Procurement Plans, in compliance with the relevant Protocols of Agreement as well as WB’s rules and Procedures as detailed in the Financing Agreement, the Project Appraisal Document the Project Operating Manual, and other related documents. Scope of Services The Project Coordinator will ensure the effective and efficient coordination and management of all activities associated with the project, in full compliance with the requirements and procedures of the Government of Liberia and the World Bank. Main Roles and Responsibilities Specific responsibilities of the Project Coordinator will include, but not limited to the following: 1. Project Leadership and Management • Provide overall supervision, leadership, and strategic direction for effective implementation of the LIFT Project in line with the agreed results framework. • Lead the development and review of Annual Work Plans, Budgets, and Procurement Plans, ensuring alignment with project objectives and timelines. • Manage day-to-day operations of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), including staff supervision and office management. • Ensure the project is implemented in compliance with the World Bank's policies, financing agreements, and the Government of Liberia's regulations. 2. Planning, Monitoring, and Reporting • Prepare and submit quarterly, semi-annual, and annual project progress reports to the National Project Technical and Steering Committees and the World Ba