Dear Potential Offeror, 

SoCha LLC is pleased to announce this Request for Proposals (RFP) under its Localization, Inclusion, and Sustainability Activity (LISA) RFP NO. 001/2025 – Consultancy for Provision of Tourism Promotion & Communications Services.  

This document contains: 

1. A Synopsis of the RFP that lists deadlines and contact information.
2. Section 1 that contains the Statement of Work, including technical requirements, deliverables and responses expected.
3. Section 2 provides important information about this bid, including submission instructions. 

We appreciate your firm’s interest in working with SoCha and look forward to receiving a proposal.

Thank you. 

LISA Procurement Team 

Localization, Inclusion and Sustainability Activity (LISA) 

SYNOPSIS OF THE RFP

Download the PDF with RFP details here.

Annex A: Financial Proposal Format (RFP No.001)

Responses to Questions:

Question 1

Question: You have stated that the target market includes local, regional, and international audiences. Are there any priority countries we should focus on, or should we align our deliverables primarily with Kenya, Africa as a continent, and other global continents? Who are the primary target audiences for this project?

Response/Clarification:

The objective of this consultancy is to position Kenya as a global leader in sustainable tourism by designing and implementing a comprehensive tourism promotion and communication strategy. This strategy will target diverse audiences at local, regional, and international levels.

The consulting firm is expected to propose priority target audiences based on market research, with a focus on regions or demographics where tourism to Kenya is currently low but demonstrates significant potential. Proposals should include a clear justification for these recommendations and align with high-value tourism markets or regions with growth potential as identified by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.

The final selection of target audiences will be made in consultation with the Ministry to ensure alignment with national tourism objectives.

Question 2

Question: Are there any specific priorities or deliverables that you consider most critical?

Response/Clarification:

Refer to the RFP - Section II: Statement of Work. All priority deliverables have been listed under Expected Outputs and Deliverables.

Question 3

Question: Is there a set budget range for this project? What about the retainer? Is there a set range?

Response/Clarification:

Vendors should submit a reasonable and competitive financial proposal aligned with the two-year engagement scope. All anticipated costs or payments required should be included in the financial proposal, accompanied by a comprehensive justification. Proposals will be evaluated on a value-for-money basis to ensure alignment with project objectives and efficient resource use.

Retainer payments will be tied to monthly deliverables and made according to a schedule agreed upon by SoCha, USAID, and the shortlisted vendor. This schedule will be clarified during discussions with shortlisted vendors prior to the final selection.

Question 4

Question: Will there be opportunities for discussions or clarifications during the evaluation process?

Response/Clarification:

Yes, opportunities for discussions or clarifications will be available after the initial evaluation of proposals. Shortlisted vendors, selected based on the most competitive technical proposals, will be invited for further discussions and consultations. Specific dates and methods for these engagements will be communicated during the procurement process.

Question 5

Question: Will there be support from your team in engaging stakeholders, or will the consultancy manage this independently?

Response/Clarification:

This work will be carried out in close consultation and collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife to ensure alignment with its objectives and priorities. The consulting firm/vendor will be responsible for leading stakeholder mapping, outreach, and collaboration efforts. Therefore, the firm is expected to have the expertise and capacity to drive these processes effectively, in close collaboration with the Ministry.

Question 6

Question: Can we include taxes in the budget format as an additional row?

Response/Clarification:

All costs are to be stated inclusive of tax. It is the responsibility of the vendor to comply with local tax regulations and to facilitate USAID's reimbursement of taxes based on existing arrangements with local authorities.

Question 7

Question: For purposes of costing related to arranging coverage, interviews, and meetings with stakeholders at international tourism events, including travel, accommodation, and media coordination, could you kindly clarify the expected countries of travel and the frequency of such travel?

Response/Clarification:

The frequency and specific countries for travel will be determined in consultation with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife based on strategic priorities and emerging opportunities.

However, the consulting firm, in their technical proposal, is encouraged to propose recommendations and insights on upcoming international tourism events or platforms that could enhance Kenya’s visibility and provide opportunities for stakeholder engagement. The proposal should provide a clear justification for these suggestions and include anticipated costs related to travel, accommodation, and media coordination as part of a comprehensive financial plan.

Question 8

Question: The scope of work outlined includes two key components: PR communication and digital services. Would it be possible to submit a joint venture proposal that brings together two parties to fulfill these requirements?

Response/Clarification:

While joint venture proposals are acceptable, SoCha will enter into a contract with both firms separately. Each firm should submit its respective costs (i.e., costs for PR Communication and separate costs for Digital Services).

The proposal must present a unified and competitive approach that reflects the collective strengths of the parties involved. It should clearly outline roles and responsibilities for each party within the joint venture and provide a compelling justification for how the collaboration will enhance the project’s success. Ensure the proposal demonstrates cohesive management, accountability, and delivery of all components under the contract.

Question 9

Question: My question pertains to the budgetary allocation for the entire contract. Could you please provide this information so that we can ensure our proposal aligns with the available budget?

Response/Clarification:

See response to Question 3 above.