REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

RFP N° 2017937

To: [Vendor Name / All Registered Suppliers]

[Date]

SUBJECT: Request for Proposal — PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF SOLAR SYSTEMS (SOLAR PANELS MONOCRYSTALLINE MODULE 550W 48 VOLTS) IN 31 HEALTH FACILITIES IN LIBERIA (RELAUNCH) | RFP N° 2017937

Dear Sir / Madam,

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Liberia invites your organization to submit a proposal for purchase and installation of solar systems (solar panels monocrystalline module 550w 48 volts) in 31 health facilities in Liberia (relaunch). This procurement is conducted under the Quality and Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method with a [70/30] technical/financial split.

Please read this document in full before preparing your submission.

Key points:

• Submissions are by email only — two separate emails are required (See section II. 5.1).
• Late submissions will not be considered under any circumstances.
• Lots and Awards- this procurement is divided into three (3) lots. Bidders may submit proposals for one, multiple, or all lots; however, CRS is not obligated to award all lots to the same bidder.
• CRS reserves the right to accept or reject any or all quotations without explanation.
• CRS may, at its discretion, ask the Supplier/Vendor for clarification of its Quote. The request for clarification and the response shall be in writing, and no change in price or substance of the Quote shall be sought, offered, or permitted.
• CRS may reject any quote that is not substantively responsive to the terms and conditions of the RFP.
• CRS is not bound to accept the lowest or any quote and reserves the right to accept any quote in whole or in part and to reject any or all quotes without assigning any reason therefore and to Contract on any of the terms offered or on different terms.
• Bidders shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of the quote, and CRS will not be liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the solicitation
• CRS may, for any reason, whether at its own initiative or in response to a clarification requested by a prospective supplier/vendor, amend this Request for Proposal. To afford prospective suppliers/vendors reasonable time to consider the amendments in preparing their offers, CRS may extend the deadline for the submission of quotes. Any amendments or clarifications will be shared with all the registered bidders.
• Modification / Withdrawal: CRS may amend or withdraw this RFP at any time. Bidders may modify or withdraw bids before the deadline by resubmitting a complete new proposal.

Clarification questions must be submitted in writing to liberiarfq@crs.org by July 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM GMT, with subject: ‘CLARIFICATION — RFP N° 2017937

— [Company Name]’. Responses will be circulated to all registered bidders simultaneously.

Sincerely,

CRS Liberia

SECTION I: INTRODUCTION

1. Project Background

Many health facilities in Liberia do not have reliable electricity, which affects medical services, vaccine storage, and equipment use. CRS is launching a project to install solar systems in 31 health facilities to solve this problem. The project is funded by the Global Fund and supports CRS goals on sustainability and stronger health systems.

2. Purpose of this RFP

The main goals are to reduce reliance on generators, improve energy access, and ensure continuous healthcare services, especially for mothers and children.

3. Procurement Method Justification

This procurement uses Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) with a [70/30] Technical/Financial split. QCBS is used because:

• Complex technical work requiring expertise
• Quality of equipment and installation varies significantly (poor quality equipment and installation = system failure).
• Methodology/approach impacts project success.
• Warranty and support critical for long-term function

The quality and technical approach are critical factors beyond price alone. This method is consistent with CRS Procurement Policy Procurement Guidelines.

SECTION II: INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS (ITB)

1. Key Dates

2. Registration Requirement

3. Evaluation Sequence

4. Pre-Bid Meeting & Site Visit

4.a. Pre-Bid Meeting:

A pre-bid meeting will be held on [28 July 2026 at 10:00-12:00 am GMT , at Corina Hotel, 24th Street, Sinkor, Monrovia-Liberia and online through a Teams meeting link to be shared. Attendance is optional but strongly encouraged. Minutes of the meeting and any clarifications issued will be shared with all registered bidders no later than 31 July 2026 2:00 PM GMT. Verbal statements made during the meeting are not binding unless confirmed in writing.

4.b. Site Visit (Optional)

Bidders are encouraged to visit and inspect the sites of the works and their surroundings to obtain, on their own initiative and responsibility, all information necessary for preparing their bid and executing the contract. Site visit is at bidders” own expense and is non-refundable.

All costs related to the site visit shall be borne by the bidder.

Note: The site visit is not mandatory and will not affect the evaluation of the outcome. Bidders are encouraged to visit the facilities during working days; Monday to Friday

5. Method of Submission — Email Only

6. Technical Proposal — Format and Page Requirements

7. Submission Deadline

8. Bid Opening Procedure

The bid opening shall be conducted publicly in the presence of bidders’ representatives who wish to attend. The public bid opening will take place on 07 August 2026, 10:00 to 11:00 AM GMT at CRS Office 16th Street, Gardner Avenue, Seaside, C-140 Building, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia and online through a team meeting link to be shared.

During the opening session, only the names of bidders and other information permitted under the procurement procedures will be announced and recorded in the bid opening minutes.

Email 1 (Eligibility & MQR & Technical Proposal) is accessed in the first place. The Procurement Officer logs all received Email 1 submissions and confirms receipt in the Bid Opening Record.

Technical Proposals are accessed only after Eligibility & MQR evaluation is complete.

Email 2 (Financial) is accessed only after Email 2 evaluation is complete and the minimum technical threshold is confirmed.

Bidders whose proposals are eliminated at any stage will be notified by email.

9. Price Submission & Tax Provisions

10. Clarification Requests

Written questions must be submitted to liberiarfq@crs.org latest July 31, 2026 at 2:00 PM, with the subject line ‘CLARIFICATION — RFP N° 2017937— [Company Name]’. Responses will be issued as numbered addenda to ALL registered bidders simultaneously. Verbal responses carry no weight.

11. Subcontracting – Applicable to all Bidders

Bidders must declare in their technical proposal (Annex 9) whether they intend to subcontract any part of the works. Major subcontractors (those performing more than 15% of contract value) are subject to the same eligibility checks as the prime contractor. The prime contractor remains fully responsible for all subcontracted work. Subcontractors may not be substituted after award without prior written CRS approval.

12. Sanctions, Anti-Corruption & Prohibited Practices

Bidders represent and warrant that neither the bidder, its affiliates, subsidiaries, subcontractors, nor any of their key personnel are:

• Listed on the U.S. Treasury OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list or subject to any OFAC sanctions programme.
• Subject to debarment or suspension by the U.S. Government (SAM.gov exclusions list) or CRS.
• Listed on the UN Security Council Consolidated Sanctions List.
• Subject to EU restrictive measures/sanctions.
• Debarred by the Global Fund or any other public international body.

CRS will conduct Bridger screening on all bidders as part of the Eligibility check. Bidders found on any sanctions list will be immediately disqualified. CRS has zero tolerance for bribery and corruption.

13. Award of Contract & Negotiations

A contract will be executed with the bidder whose proposal offers best Value for Money — responsive to this RFP, passing all eligibility and technical requirements, and achieving the highest combined Technical + Financial score. CRS reserves the right to request clarifications and conduct negotiations prior to award. CRS may make separate awards per component or make no award at all. This RFP does not oblige CRS to execute a contract or reimburse any bid preparation costs.

14. Other Provisions

• CRS may reject any quote that is not substantively responsive to the terms and conditions of the RFP.
• CRS is not bound to accept the lowest or any quote and reserves the right to accept any quote in whole or in part and to reject any or all quotes without assigning any reason therefore and to Contract on any of the terms offered or on different terms.
• Bidders shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of the quote, and CRS will in no case be responsible or liable for those costs, regardless of the conduct or outcome of the solicitation.
• Modification / Withdrawal: CRS may amend or withdraw this RFP at any time. Bidders may modify or withdraw bids before the deadline by resubmitting a complete new proposal.
• Gender, Equity & Inclusion: CRS promotes gender equality. All bidders are expected to uphold these values in their delivery approach.

SECTION III: FINANCIAL CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT

1. Advance Payment

• Issued by a reputable bank licensed to operate in Liberia, acceptable to CRS.
• Amount: Equal to or greater than the advance payment amount.
• Form: Unconditional, irrevocable, and payable on first demand by CRS without proof of default.
• Validity: Must remain valid until the full advance has been recovered through deductions. The vendor must extend the APG if recovery is not complete before the expiry date.
• Currency: Same currency as the advance payment.
• Submission: Original hard copy delivered to CRS Liberia offices before advance is disbursed. Electronic copies are not accepted for this purpose.

Failure to provide a compliant APG will result in the advance request being declined. CRS may proceed to contract execution without the advance payment in such cases.

.

2. Performance Bond / Guarantee

3. Retention / Retention Guarantee

First Tranche [50] % of total retention released when:

— All deliverables or works substantially completed and accepted in writing by CRS.

— Practical completion certificate issued by CRS or appointed supervisor.

— No material defects outstanding at completion.

Second Tranche — remaining [50]% released when:

— Defects liability / warranty period has elapsed without outstanding defects.

— Any defects notified during the defects liability period have been rectified to CRS’s satisfaction.

— Written release issued by the CRS Head of Operations.

Defects Liability Period: [12] months from the date of practical completion, unless otherwise stated in the Scope of Work.

CRS reserves the right to use retained amounts to rectify defects not corrected by the vendor within [14] days of written notice.

SECTION IV: ADMINISTRATIVE & ELIGIBILITY & MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS (MQR)

SECTION V: TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL EVALUATION CRITERIA

2. Technical Evaluation (Max: 70 Points | Minimum : 49 Points)

3. Financial Evaluation (Max: [30] Points)

SECTION V: SCOPE OF WORK

Equipment Specifications

1. General System Requirements

• System type: Hybrid Solar PV System (Grid + Generator + Battery Backup)
• Application: Health facilities (clinics, health centers, hospitals)

Design life:

• PV modules: ≥ 25 years
• Inverter: ≥ 10 years
• Batteries: ≥ 8 years

• System availability: ≥ 95% uptime
• Ambient conditions:

• Temperature: 20°C – 40°C (design up to 45°C)
• Humidity: High (>85%)
• Coastal corrosion resistance is required in facilities along the coastline

• Compliance:
• IEC / ISO standards
• WHO guidelines for healthcare electrification
• Local National Electrical Standards

2. Solar Panel/PV Modules (Monocrystalline): Minimum Technical Requirements/Specifications

• Type: Monocrystalline silicon
• Rated power: ≥ 550 kW per module
• Module efficiency: ≥ 20%
• Tolerance: Positive tolerance (0 to +5W or higher)

Electrical Characteristics

• Voltage at maximum power (Vmpp): As per design size
• Short circuit current (Isc): Manufacturer standard
• Temperature coefficient: ≤ -0.35%/°C

Mechanical & Environmental

• Frame: Anodized aluminum (corrosion-resistant)
• Glass: Tempered, anti-reflective
• IP rating: ≥ IP68 (junction box)
• Wind load: ≥ 2400 Pa

Warranty

• Product warranty: ≥ 10–12 years
• Performance warranty:
• ≥ 90% at 10 years
• ≥ 80–85% at 25 years

3. Hybrid Inverter (Solar + Battery + Grid/Generator)

Minimum Technical Requirements/Specifications

• Type: Hybrid inverter (bi-directional)
• Output: Pure sine wave
• Rated capacity: Sized per load (5 kW, 10 kW – 20 kW per health facility load size)
• Scalability: Parallel operation capability

Electrical Features

• Input voltage range: Wide MPPT range
• MPPT: ≥ 2 independent MPPT trackers
• Efficiency: ≥ 95–98%
• Surge capability: ≥ 2x rated power for short duration

Battery Integration

• Compatible with Lithium-ion (LiFePO₄) batteries
• Built-in Battery Management System (BMS) communication
• Smart charging algorithms

Grid/Generator Integration

• Transfer between:

• Solar
• Battery
• Grid / Diesel generator

Protection Features

• Over/under voltage protection
• Overload and short circuit protection
• Anti-islanding protection
• Over-temperature shutdown

Communication & Monitoring

• Interfaces:

• Wi-Fi/router internet

• Remote monitoring:

• Mobile app

• Internet data logging: ≥ 1 year storage

Environmental

• Operating temperature: up to 50°C
• Protection class: ≥ IP54 (indoor) / IP65 (outdoor)

Warranty

• ≥ 10 years

4. Lithium Battery Storage System Requirements/Specifications

Technology

• Type: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄)

Performance

• Depth of Discharge (DoD): ≥ 80–90% usable
• Cycle life: ≥ 6000 cycles at 80% DoD
• Round-trip efficiency: ≥ 95%

Capacity

• Modular sizing: 5 kWh – 20 kWh+, depending on facility load as stated in the RFP
• Autonomy: Minimum 8–24 hours for critical loads

Battery Management System (BMS)

• Integrated BMS required
• Functions:

• Overcharge/over-discharge protection
• Cell balancing
• Temperature monitoring
• Communication with the inverter

Safety

• Built-in:

• Fire protection features
• Thermal runaway protection

• Enclosure rating: ≥ IP54

Environmental

• Operating temperature: 0°C to 50°C
• Passive or active cooling system

Warranty

• ≥ 8 – 10 years

5. Mounting Structures

• Material: Aluminum
• Tilt angle: optimized for Liberia (~5°–10° typical)
• Wind resistance: ≥ 150 km/h

6. Solar Charge Controllers

• Type: MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
• Efficiency: ≥ 98%
• Compatible with system voltage

7. DC & AC Electrical Accessories

Cables

• PV cables:

• UV-resistant
• Double insulated
• IEC 62930 compliant

• AC cables: Copper, XLPE/PVC insulated

Combiner Boxes

• IP rating: ≥ IP65
• Includes:

• DC isolators
• Surge protection devices (SPD)
• String fuses

Protection Devices

• DC isolators
• AC circuit breakers
• Surge protection (Type II minimum)
• Earthing system (≤ 5 ohms resistance target)

8. Monitoring and Control System

• Real-time monitoring:

• Energy production
• Battery status
• Load consumption

• Remote diagnostics capability
• SMS/email alert system for faults

9. Earthing and Lightning Protection

• Comprehensive grounding system required:

• Panels
• Inverter
• Battery bank

• Lightning arrestor required (especially for rural facilities)
• Compliance with IEC 62305

10. Key Design Considerations for Health Facilities

• Critical loads prioritization:

• Laboratory equipment
• Vaccine refrigerators
• Lighting

• Load segregation:
• Essential vs non-essential loads

Additional equipment and accessories: Suppliers/services providers are also expected to provide any additional equipment or accessories needed for full installation of the system such as below:

• Aluminum Racks + clamps and accessories package for panels for roof-top installation
• Smart solar MPPT Charge controller
• Invertor DC/AC (invertor capacity varies based on the size of the system)
• Lightning Conductor/protector
• Remote monitoring equipment (to ensure system monitoring from any location)
• Surge Protection
• Earthing system
• Cables and accessories
• Any other thing that is missing in the above

Services Required

The selected vendor shall provide a comprehensive suite of services to ensure the successful delivery, installation, and commissioning of solar energy systems across designated health facilities. These services include but are not limited to:

Procurement and Delivery

• Supply of solar panels, hybrid inverters, lithium batteries, and all required accessories.
• Packaging, transportation, and delivery of equipment to each health facility as per the system design specifications.
• Provision of documentation including purchase orders, waybills, and inventory verification reports.

Installation and Commissioning

• On-site installation of solar systems, including mounting, wiring, and integration of components.
• Configuration and testing of hybrid inverters, charge controllers, and monitoring systems.
• Commissioning of systems to ensure full operational readiness, including load testing and quality assurance.

Testing Tool Development

• The bidder shall develop a testing tool to verify the performance and quality of the installed solar systems.
• The tool must include parameters for load testing, system diagnostics, and performance validation.
• CRS will review and approve the tool prior to its use.
• The tool will be used during the acceptance phase to confirm that installations meet the required specifications.

Waste Management and Environmental Compliance

• Development and implementation of a waste disposal plan for used batteries and damaged panels.
• Inclusion of strategies for reuse, recycling, hazardous waste handling, and vendor take-back programs.
• Compliance with national and international environmental standards.

Training and Knowledge Transfer

• Conduct training sessions for at least two (2) health facility staff on system operation, basic troubleshooting, and safety protocols.
• Provide user manuals and documentation in English.
• Ensure knowledge transfer to promote sustainability and local ownership.

Monitoring and Support

• Installation of remote monitoring equipment to enable real-time system performance tracking by both the health facility staff and the vendor. The monitoring system should be compatible with smart phones.
• Provision of preventive maintenance services for a minimum of one-year post-installation.
• Availability of technical support during the defect liability period.

Documentation and Handover

• Submission of provisional and final commissioning reports.
• Delivery of as-built diagrams, warranty certificates, and system manuals.
• Facilitation of final handover and acceptance by CRS and the Ministry of Health.

The proposed system must comply with international regulations that guarantee the quality, durability and safety of photovoltaic system.

Site Information

Health Facility List and System Design Specifications

CRS intends to solarize 31 health facilities across Liberia. Each facility has been assigned a system design based on its energy needs.

Refer to Annex 12 for the complete list of facilities, including GPS coordinates and system specifications.

SECTION VI: POST-QUALIFICATION ACTIONS

Reference checks and document authentication

CRS will verify the accuracy and authenticity of information submitted by the recommended bidder before contract execution.

Financial capacity verification

CRS will assess the vendor’s liquidity position and overall capacity to pre‑finance the project. Proof of a minimum annual turnover of USD 200,000 over the last five years will be required prior to confirming the award.

If the recommended bidder fails post-qualification, CRS reserves the right to offer the contract to the next-ranked bidder subject to the same post-qualification process.

SECTION VII: BID FORMS & ANNEXES

ANNEX 1 — BID SUBMISSION FORM (Submit in Email 1)

We, the undersigned, declare that:

• Applying for lot (s) _________ / ________/ ________ (specify the lot (s) number;
• We have examined and have no reservations to the Scope of Work, Specifications, and all Addenda for this contract.
• We offer to carry out the contract in accordance with the RFP requirements.
• Our bid shall remain valid for ninety (90) calendar days from the submission deadline.
• We have no conflict of interest in this procurement process.
• Neither we nor our affiliates, subcontractors, or key personnel are listed on any sanctions list referenced in Section 15.
• We have not been suspended or debarred by CRS, the Global Fund, or any public international body.
• We understand CRS may cancel the RFP process at any time and is not bound to accept any bid.
• All information in this proposal is true, correct, and complete to the best of our knowledge.
• We agree to the standstill notification process described in Section 16.
• If an advance payment is requested: we understand that an Advance Payment Guarantee is required before disbursement.
• If a performance bond applies we commit to providing a compliant Performance Bond within 14 days of contract signature.
• If retention applies we acknowledge that retention will be deducted per Section 20 and released under the stated conditions.

ANNEX 2 — DECLARATION OF ABSENCE OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST (Submit in Email 1)

(Print on company letterhead)

Date: ____________________
To: Evaluation Committee

Declare that:

• Neither our company nor our staff have any conflict of interest in any activity that would place us, if selected, in conflict of interest with CRS.
• We confirm we have not been associated, directly or indirectly, in the preparation of the design, terms of reference, or other documents used in this procurement.
• Neither our company nor its affiliates have been declared ineligible by CRS or under any Global Fund / donor project.
• We have not offered and will not offer gifts, payments, or favours in exchange for this tender.
• We are participating independently, not as part of a joint venture (unless explicitly disclosed in Annex 9).
• I authorize CRS to verify this information and accept consequences of any breach.

ANNEX 3 — ADMINISTRATIVE & ELIGIBILITY & MQR COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST (Bidder Self-Audit) (Submit in Email 1)

Complete and include as the first page of Email 1. Tick each item to confirm inclusion.

ANNEX 4 — TECHNICAL EVALUATION MATRIX

ANNEX 5: PAST CLIENT REFERENCE INFORMATION FORM (Submit in Email 1)

• Complete the reference form below for each project (minimum 3 references).
• Attach client reference letters on official letterhead if available.
• Ensure contact information is current — the evaluation committee WILL contact references.

• Quality, relevance, and verification of references directly impact on your technical score.
• False or unverifiable references will result in disqualification.
• References that cannot be contacted may not be counted toward your score.

1. Client organization name and contact details
2. Project title and contract value
3. Scope of work description
4. Contract duration (start and end dates)
5. Statement of completion — on time, on budget, quality delivered
6. Your company’s role and performance on the contract
7. Any notable achievements or challenges overcome
8. Contact person name, title, signature, and date

ANNEX 6 — KEY PERSONNEL CVs – (Submit in Email 1 in Technical Proposal)

• Use the CV template provided in this annex (or a similar professional format).
• Maximum 3 pages per CV — focus on relevant experience only.
• Each CV must be SIGNED and DATED by the individual.
• Attach copies of relevant certificates and qualifications.
• Focus experience descriptions on aspects relevant to this RFP.

• Qualifications and experience of key personnel directly impact your technical score.
• CVs without signatures or dates may not be counted toward your score.
• Personnel changes after contract award require prior written CRS approval.

1. Prior written approval from CRS Liberia must be obtained BEFORE any change.
2. Justification for the substitution must be provided.
3. A replacement CV demonstrating equal or superior qualifications must be submitted.
4. CRS will evaluate the replacement before acceptance.
5. Unauthorized personnel substitution may constitute a material breach of contract and result in penalties.

ANNEX 7 — LETTER OF TENDER (Submit in Email 2)

We have examined the RFP and all Addenda. We offer to execute and complete the contract in conformity with the RFP requirements.

Our financial proposal totaling [AMOUNT IN CURRENCY] (all-inclusive) is submitted separately in Email 2.

We agree to abide by this Tender for 90 calendar days from the submission deadline.

We understand CRS is not bound to accept the lowest or any bid.

We acknowledge the financial conditions set out in Sections 18–20 (Advance Payment / Performance Bond / Retention) and commit to complying with whichever are marked applicable.

This Tender, together with the written acceptance by CRS, shall constitute a binding contract between our organizations.

ANNEX 8 — FINANCIAL PROPOSAL / BILL OF QUANTITIES (Submit in Email 2)

Please ensure that the Financial Proposal / Bill of Quantities attached to this RFP, and forming an integral part of its annexes, is fully completed for the lot(s) you are quoting. Enter a unit price and calculate the extended total for every line item. Do not leave any price field blank — incomplete BoQs are non-responsive. All prices in USD, inclusive of all costs.

Lot 1: Twelve (12) Health facilities in Bomi, Gbarpolu; Grand Cape Mount; Montserrado

Lot 2: Nine (9) Health facilities in Bong, Nimba & Lofa

Lot 3: Ten (10) Health facilties in Grand Bassa; Grand Gedeh; Grand Kru; River Gee & Maryland

See full details in attached BoQ

ANNEX 9 — SUBCONTRACTOR DISCLOSURE FORM (Submit in Email 1 — if applicable)

This form is MANDATORY for international bidders without a registered local branch in Liberia. The purpose is to demonstrate clearly how the bidder will meet post-installation requirements, including maintenance, monitoring, and after-sales support within Liberia.

I confirm that the subcontractors listed above are eligible under the requirements of this RFP, including sanctions screening and conflict of interest requirements. I acknowledge that the prime contractor remains fully responsible for all subcontracted work.

ANNEX 10 — ADVANCE PAYMENT REQUEST FORM (Submit in Email 2 — if applicable)

ANNEX 11 — PERFORMANCE BOND TEMPLATE (For information — issued by vendor’s bank if Section 19 applies)

PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE

TO: Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Liberia ATTENTION: Head of Operations

DATE: ________________

We, [BANK NAME], a bank duly licensed to operate in Liberia, hereby irrevocably and unconditionally undertake to pay to Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Liberia, on its first written demand, without caveat or condition and without right of objection on our part, any sum or sums not exceeding [CURRENCY] [AMOUNT] (in words: [AMOUNT IN WORDS]), being [___]% of the total contract value.

This guarantee is issued in connection with the contract between [VENDOR NAME] (hereinafter the ‘Contractor’) and CRS Liberia, RFP N° [RFP_NUMBER], for [CONTRACT DESCRIPTION] (hereinafter the ‘Contract’).

This guarantee shall remain in full force and effect from the date of contract signature until [DATE — 30 days after final acceptance of all deliverables]. Any demand made under this guarantee must be received by us in writing before expiry.

This guarantee is governed by the laws of Liberia.

ANNEX 12. HEALTH FACILITY LIST AND SYSTEM DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS

ANNEX 13: CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SUPPLIERS & SERVICE PROVIDERS

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is committed to the principles of responsible sourcing. We expect our suppliers and service providers to fully comply with applicable contractual obligations — including CRS’s terms and conditions, local and applicable laws — and to adhere to internationally recognized environmental, social, and corporate governance standards. We also expect our suppliers to apply these standards to their own suppliers and subcontractors.

This Code of Conduct is inspired by:

▸ The UN Global Compact

▸ The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights

▸ The ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work

▸ The ETI Base Code

▸ Applicable CRS policies, procedures and standards

Suppliers and service providers must prohibit all forms of harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse — including sexual exploitation and abuse and trafficking in persons. Any sexual activity with a child (defined as any person under 18) is considered sexual abuse regardless of the local age of consent.

▸ Have mechanisms in place to prevent, address, and actively respond to harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, including sexual exploitation and abuse, and human trafficking.

▸ Support the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights and prohibit forced, compulsory, and involuntary labour and child labour.

▸ Do not recruit or employ children under the age of 15. Do not recruit or employ children under 18 for work that is mentally or physically dangerous or that interferes with schooling.

▸ Treat employees with dignity and respect and provide a safe, hygienic workplace that complies with national laws and is free from discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexuality, culture, or disability.

▸ Provide accessible and confidential reporting mechanisms for employees and other stakeholders to report concerns or suspicions of any form of harassment, abuse, exploitation, or potentially illegal practices by management or employees.

▸ Commit to protecting journalists and whistleblowers from reprisals.

▸ Respect freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining as defined in applicable laws.

▸ Ensure that wages and hours of work are in line with national legal standards.

¹ Refer to pages 6–7 of CRS’s Safeguard Policy for more details on prohibited exploitative practices, including the provision of commercial sexual services, employment practices, and relationships with beneficiaries that are abusive.

▸ Comply with all applicable domestic and international trade laws and regulations, including but not limited to antitrust laws, trade controls, and sanctions regimes.

▸ Conduct business with integrity as the foundation of all business relationships.

▸ Ban all types of bribery, corruption, money laundering, and terrorist financing.

▸ Prohibit gifts to public or private officials that aim to influence business decisions or encourage them to act contrary to their obligations.

▸ Respect the privacy and confidential information of all employees and business partners. Protect data and intellectual property from misuse.

▸ Establish data protection and management standards that address data collection, backup, sanitation, and disposal. The Data Owner must be aware of the terms and conditions for provision of data and give consent in accordance with CRS’s Responsible Data Values and Principles.

▸ Implement an appropriate compliance management policy and procedure that facilitates compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards.

▸ Promote the safe and environmentally responsible development, manufacture, transportation, use, and disposal of products.

▸ Comply with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.

▸ Ensure, using appropriate management policies and procedures, that the quality and safety of products meet applicable requirements.

▸ Protect the lives and health of employees and neighbours, as well as the general public, from hazards inherent in your processes and products.

▸ Use resources efficiently, apply energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies, and reduce waste as well as emissions to air, water, and soil.

Ensuring the principles of sustainability in our supply chain is important to CRS. We hope that as a partner you demonstrate your commitment by complying with your own code of conduct or the corporate policies that encompass these standards.