Some basic information on USAID Iraq reconstruction contracts

1. What is the source of funding for the contracts and grants that USAID is awarding?

Funds appropriated by the U.S. Congress - ultimately the U.S. taxpayer. Revenues from the Oil for Food program, or other Iraqi or international sources, will not fund these contracts.

2. What will the initial contracts cover?

Between January 31st and March 4th, USAID issued eight Requests for Proposals or RFPs for work in Iraq. These are for capital construction including bridge, road and port rehabilitation and repair; seaport administration; airport administration; public health; primary and secondary education; local governance; theater logistical support and personnel support.

The RFP for Stevedoring Services of America was presented on February 12, 2003. The reply was due one week later on February 19, 2003. The conract was awarded (ok...announced) on March 24, 2003.

Interesting:

US citizenship is required of key persons selected to perform under classified portions of this contract

Guess that rules out international cooperation. More specifically, it rules out a Port Director for Umm Qasr who is Iraqi. see RFP for Seaport Administration