Tenders Are Invited For Strategic Framework And Operationalization Plan

Tenders are invited for Strategic Framework and Operationalization Plan for Gambia ICT Agency (GICTA). In the pursuit of digital transformation and socio-economic development, The Gambia has articulated a clear vision towards Making The Gambia a Digital Nation and Creating a Modern Information Society under its National Development Plan (2018 2021). This policy aims to leverage the power of ICT across various sectors for equitable development, enhance e-government services, and improve connectivity and implement cyber security measures within government, among other objectives. The establishment of the Gambia Information and Communication Technology Agency (GICTA) is a critical component of this vision, tasked with coordinating and supporting key ICT and E-Government projects to align with the governments strategic objectives. Governed by the eGovernment Strategy 2021-2024, the responsibility for implementing this strategy is now divided between the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy (MOCDE) and GICTA, with MOCDE concentrating on policy development and GICTA on execution. While the vision is clear and the roadmap set, The Gambia has faced significant challenges in bringing this vision to reality. The digital economy sector is characterized by a complex governance fabric, with multiple decision centers and a lack of clarity over roles and responsibilities with increasing new mandates and technological developments. This has resulted in fragmented initiatives, lack of strategic direction, and delays in the implementation of key objectives such as enhancing access to broadband and improving digital literacy. The GICTA, established under the GICTA Act of 2019, has a critical role in tackling these difficulties. However, its establishment has not yet translated into operational effectiveness. Despite its mandate to facilitate coordination, design, implementation, and management of ICT projects across government bodies, the agency itself requires a comprehensive operational framework to guide its interactions with stakeholders, financial sustainability, etc. Recent positive developments include the appointment of a Director General, a draft organization structure, and a defined remuneration package for its key staff. Currently, GICTA is in the process of filling key positions within the agency to initiate its operational activities. Meanwhile, Digital Transformation for Africa/ West Africa Regional Digital Infrastructure Program (DTfA/ WARDIP-SOP1, P176932) has identified the operationalization of GICTA as a key area of support, acknowledging the potential of digital technologies to drive efficiency, transparency, and innovation in the public sector. DTfA/ WARDIP SOP-1 aims to lay down a robust foundation for GICTA, ensuring that the agency is not only institutionally sound but also operationally ready and sustainable to take on its mandates. In light of these challenges and the pressing need for a holistic understanding of the sector, the World Bank is seeking a consultant to conduct a robust study to unravel the intricacies of the ICT ecosystem in The Gambia, ensuring clarity and coherence in the operationalization of GICTA. The study will also include a benchmarking analysis which will review best practices in ICT agency development, management, and governance in order to draw practical lessons learned for their implementation. Furthermore, the study will explore sustainable funding options, assessing their viability and alignment with GICTAs objectives. The insights garnered from this study will be instrumental in laying down a robust foundation for GICTA, ensuring its operational readiness, financial sustainability, and effective contribution to The Gambias digital transformation journey. Ultimately, this effort aims to foster a well-coordinated, inclusive, and efficient ICT sector, empowering GICTA to drive digital innovation and enhance the socio-economic development of The Gambia. Publication Date: 12/23/2023 12:00 AM EST EOI Deadline: 1/15/2024 11:59 PM EST. Tender Link : http://www.worldbank.org/en/about/corporate-procurement/business-opportunities/administrative-procurement?order=desc