Name of Client:
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Country:
Afghanistan
Length of Consultancy Assignment:
Start Date: 30 August 2021
Completion Date: 31 December 2021
Detailed Narrative Description of Project:
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a tragic loss of lives and has significantly impacted the livelihoods of Afghan people. To support the government of Afghanistan in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided a range of assistance including: (i) $40 million Emergency Assistance for COVID-19 Pandemic Response grant to support Afghanistan's capacity to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, strengthen hospital facilities, acquire vital medicines, and train thousands of frontline health workers; and (ii) $50 million grant for COVID-19 Vaccines under ADB's Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (APVAX), which will help the government with procurement, distribution, and administration of the vaccines in a safe and effective manner.
Engaged by ADB, PRIMEX provided the service of the Health Expert who supported research for the preparation of the key documents for the processing of a potential COVID-19 Vaccine grant for Afghanistan, taking into account the latest vaccine needs and experience of the vaccine procurement and delivery system so far and provided technical expertise and advice on health-related matters during the project processing.
Specifically, the Health Expert was tasked to undertake the following: (i) conduct research and analysis, update the Vaccine Needs Assessment, and draft sections of the Reports and Recommendations of the President, ensuring the project responds to the country’s needs and is aligned with the support provided by other donors. (ii) Provide inputs and technical advice for updating other key documents such as Project Administration Manual, and Donor Coordination. Performance Evaluation and Monitoring Systems for Vaccination Rollout in Afghanistan, and Summary Poverty Reduction and Social Strategy. (iii) Support processing of the project, including consultations with the Ministry of Public Health and other key stakeholders including donors, assisting with the preparation of presentations and other briefing materials, and incorporating key feedback and comments. (iv) Support ADB consultations, assist with incorporating comments and feedback, and contribute to the work of the One ADB team. (v) Perform other tasks as assigned by West Asia Social Sector Division (CWSS) and Afghanistan Resident Mission (AFRM).