REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST   

(Individual)

The Ministry of Health has received financing from United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) to enhance the healthcare system's oxygen supply capacity, and intends to apply part of the proceeds of these funds towards payments under the contract for consultancy intended to support the implementation of a comprehensive oxygen supply system at Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial (ASM) Hospital in Gdh. Thinadhoo. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Regional Atoll Health Service Division, Ministry of Health.

The project at hand aims to address the following key areas:

Oxygen Plant Installation: To install and operationalize oxygen production plants in strategic healthcare facilities to ensure a sustainable and reliable supply of medical-grade oxygen. This includes assessing the oxygen demand, procuring suitable equipment, and establishing a robust oxygen production infrastructure.

 Capacity Building: To build the capacity of healthcare personnel in the management and operation of oxygen supply systems. This involves training healthcare workers in the handling and maintenance of oxygen plants, as well as fostering an understanding of the importance of oxygen therapy in patient care.

 Strengthening Distribution Networks: To enhance the distribution networks and logistics of medical oxygen within the healthcare system, enabling equitable access to oxygen in urban and remote areas. This also includes addressing supply chain challenges to ensure the timely and efficient distribution of oxygen cylinders to healthcare facilities.

Emergency Response Preparedness: To create a framework for emergency preparedness and response, ensuring that the healthcare system is well-equipped to address sudden surges in demand for medical oxygen during health crises.

 Given the critical importance of these activities, this TOR is being established to define the responsibilities and expectations for the consultant that will work in close collaboration with UNICEF and the Ministry of Health to achieve the project's objectives. By enhancing the oxygen supply system, we aim to improve the quality of healthcare services and enhance our capacity to respond to health emergencies effectively.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph,10.36 of the Public Financial Regulations PFR revised on September 2023. In addition, please refer to the following specific information on conflict of interest related to this assignment:

 Consultants shall not be hired for any assignment that would be in conflict with their prior or current obligations to other clients, or that may place them in a position of being unable to carry out the assignment in the best interests of the employer. Without limitation on the generality of the foregoing, Consultants shall not be hired under the circumstances set forth below:

a. Consultants (including their experts and other personnel, and sub-consultants), that have a close business or family relationship with a professional staff of the project implementing agency, or any other party representing or acting on behalf of the Borrower, that is directly or indirectly involved in any part of:

i. the preparation of the TOR for the assignment;

ii. the selection process for the contract; or

iii. the supervision of the contract, may not be awarded a contract, unless the conflict stemming from this relationship has been resolved in a manner acceptable to the Ministry throughout the selection process and the execution of the contract.

The individual will be selected based on the qualification and experience, in accordance with the procedures set out in the TOR.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours (0800 to 1400 hours) via email.

Expressions of interest must be delivered with the documents mentioned in the TOR in a written form to the address below on 23rd November2023, 1300 hoursMaldivian time. Late submissions will not be accepted.

        Procurement Division

         Ministry of Health

        Sosun Magu, Male’

        Republic of Maldives

        Tel:(960)3014385, (960)3014386

        E-mail: [email protected]

14th November 2023