Call for Expressions of Interest

EOI - USSD Application Development

Proposal No: 001/NCS/09/2023/BRMCP

1. Background and Introduction

Launched in June 2019, BRAC Rwanda Microfinance Company PLC is dedicated to responsibly delivering various financial services to underserved communities, with a special focus on impoverished women in rural and hard-to-reach areas. The objective is to generate self-employment opportunities, bolster financial resilience, and empower women economically by tapping into their entrepreneurial spirit. Currently, there are 35 branches operating across 26 districts in the country.

Eligible interested Consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services (brochures; description of similar assignments; experience in similar conditions, for similar projects and in developing countries; general qualifications and availability of appropriate skills among staff; etc.). Consultants may associate to enhance their qualifications.

Consultants must also confirm that they comply with all applicable Anti-Terrorism Laws, including the Anti-Terrorism Act of respected country (as may from time to time be amended, renewed, extended, or replaced) and do not engage in or conspire to engage in any transaction that evades or avoids, or has the purpose of evading or avoiding, or attempts to violate, any of the prohibitions set forth in any AntiTerrorism Law.

2. Objective of the Services

BRAC Rwanda Microfinance Company PLC is seeking a reliable vendor to collaborate on its mission to provide services to underserved communities. We invite experienced firms to submit their "Expression of Interest" for the design, development, testing, and implementation of a robust USSD application.

This application should seamlessly integrate with mobile networks like MTN Rwanda and Airtel Rwanda, facilitating various transactions for BRAC Rwanda Microfinance Company PLC customers. These transactions include loan repayments, loan disbursements, account openings, loan requests, and deposits through mobile money wallets. Furthermore, it should be smoothly integrated with the core banking system of BRAC Rwanda Microfinance Company PLC.

3. Scope of the Services

The selected vendor shall be responsible for the following tasks:

3.1 USSD Application Development

• Create an intuitive USSD application enabling seamless loan repayment, loan disbursement, account opening, loan requests, and savings deposits.
• Ensure the USSD application is accessible in three languages: Kinyarwanda, English, and French.
• Incorporate robust security measures to protect customer data and transactions.

3.2 Integration with Mobile Money Platforms

• Establish secure connections with MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Mobile Money platforms to ensure secure and seamless transactions.
• Enable seamless and bi-directional communication between the USSD application and the mobile money platforms, enhancing transaction efficiency and accuracy.

3.3 Integration with Core Banking System

• Integrate the USSD application seamlessly with BRAC Rwanda's core banking system to achieve real-time data synchronization for efficient account management and streamlined loan processing.
• Implement robust mechanisms for secure data exchange and reconciliation, guaranteeing the integrity and accuracy of all data shared between systems.

3.4 Web Control Panel for Administrators

• Develop a web-based control panel that allows BRAC Rwanda administrators to monitor USSD application activity, access transaction data, and generate essential reports.
• Ensure the control panel is user-friendly and incorporates all necessary features to facilitate effective oversight and decision-making.

3.5 Testing and Quality Assurance

• Conduct thorough testing of the USSD application, evaluating its functionality, security, and performance across diverse scenarios.
• Address and resolve any defects or issues identified during testing to ensure the application meets the required standards of functionality and security.

3.6 Training and Documentation

• Conduct training sessions for BRAC Rwanda Microfinance Company PLC staff on the usage of the USSD application and the web control panel.
• Develop comprehensive documentation, including user guides and technical manuals, to support staff in effectively utilizing the USSD application and the web control panel.

4. EOI Requirements

Interested vendors must submit a thorough document containing the following components:

• A detailed company profile showcasing pertinent expertise and experience in USSD application development, mobile money integration, and core banking system integration.
• An outlined technical approach and methodology for USSD application development, mobile money platform integration, and core banking system integration.
• A proposed project timeline encompassing development, integration, testing, training, and deployment phases.
• An exhaustive cost breakdown, covering development, integration, testing, training, ongoing support, and control panel implementation.
• At least two (2) references (completion certificates) from comparable projects highlighting successful ventures in USSD application development, mobile money integration, and core banking system integration.
• Showcasing staffs who will be involved in the implementation of the project with their CV and qualification certificates (Diploma or Degree)
• A valid Tax Clearance Certificate from Rwanda Revenue Authority
• A valid clearance certificate from RSSB
• Registration Certificate from Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

5. EOI Submission

Interested vendors shall electronically submit their EOI to procurement.rwanda@brac.net no later than 5^th October 2023 at 17:00 PM. Late submissions will not be considered.

6. Contact for more Information.

Inquiries and clarifications from eligible Interested Vendors may obtain further information regarding this request of EOI, through contacts:  NSHUTI Henry, Procurement Officer, henry.nshuti@brac.net, +250 789 778 318 from 08.00 – 17.00 Hours local time, from Monday to Friday.

We look forward to receiving your proposals and collaborating with a proficient vendor to elevate the banking experience for our valued customers.