REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR PROCUREMENT OF SMARTPHONES AND SERVICE PACKAGES FOR KORALINK AGENTS 

RFP Number: 002/TCPA/2026

Date: March 02, 2026

1. Introduction

The Commons Project Foundation, Africa (TCP-Africa) is driving a person-centered health revolution across the continent. As part of the Commons Project Foundation, Africa (TCP Africa), TCP Africa was established to build and operate digital platforms that enhance healthcare accessibility and empower individuals with secure, verifiable access to their health data. Founded in 2022, TCP Africa is developing and promoting interoperable digital health tools and open standards that enable individuals to access, manage, and share their records seamlessly. In partnership with governments, foundations and other stakeholders, TCP Africa is working to digitize healthcare, build a skilled digital health workforce, and strengthen personal ownership of health data. Headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda.

TCP Africa is seeking proposals from qualified bidders for the supply and delivery of 10,762 smartphones bundled with insurance (device and screen), locking technology for use by KoraLink agents in a period of 3 years (2026-2028). The KoraLink program is a multi-sectoral initiative led by TCP Africa to create approximately 12,000 digital jobs for Rwandan youth particularly young women by enhancing their digital and entrepreneurial opportunities through affordable access to smart devices, targeted skills training, marketplace integration, and strategic linkages. The program participants will be expected to refund the cost of the devices.

2. Objectives of the RFP

TCP Africa intends to procure the following two lots under this RFP:

1. Lot 1 – Smartphones: Supply of smart phones as specified under section 3.1
2. Lot 2 – Device Services: Integrated device distribution, protection and monitoring services, including locking technology, insurance coverage and management platform specified under sections 3.2 and 3.3

Bidders may submit proposals for:

• One or both lots.
• If bidding for both lots, the bidder must demonstrate the ability to provide an integrated solution.

TCP Africa reserves the right to:

• Award both lots to a single bidder if an integrated solution is offered, or
• Split the award between two bidders (one for smartphones, one for services) if deemed in the best operational and financial interest of the organization.

3. Scope of work

Lot 1

3.1: Supply of Smartphones

This RFP is issued to establish a three (3) year framework agreement for the supply of smartphones. The estimated total quantity over the three-year period is 10,762 smartphones. The confirmed procurement for Year One is 4,000 smartphones. Quantities for Years Two and Three will be procured based on operational requirements and budget availability. The estimated quantities are provided for planning purposes only and do not constitute a guaranteed purchase commitment beyond confirmed purchase orders. Specifically, the vendor shall:

• Supply smartphones that meet or exceed the minimum technical specifications outlined in this RFP (section 4)
• Offer technical support and warranty for a minimum of 12 months. 
• Ensure timely delivery.

Lot 2

3.2: Distribution and monitoring of Devices

• The vendor shall provide one time insurance that covers device theft and screen damage.
• The vendor shall provide a locking technology service per device distributed. 
• The vendor will collaborate with KoraLink program partners to collect the required Know Your Customer (KYC) information as determined by the program.
• The vendor will distribute devices to registered agents and activate the locking technology upon reception for 12 months.
• The vendor will register/capture all the distributed devices in their device management platform for ongoing monitoring and tracking. This platform will also be used to track device status (Active/Locked/Deactivated) and monthly repayments progress.

3.3: Cost recovery: 

• The vendor shall propose and implement a cost recovery model/mechanism for monthly device repayment. The cost of the device will be refunded by each program participant over a period of 12 months.
• Proposals must include flexible repayment plans, collection methods, and tracking mechanisms tailored to the target group (KoraLink Agents).
• The vendor will be responsible for collecting repayments directly fromtheparticipants and shall remit recovered funds to TCP Africa on a monthly basis.
• The vendor is also expected to provide periodic reports detailing the rate of recovery, delinquency rates, and any challenges or recommendations for improving the process.

4. Smartphone technical specifications

5. Deliver Pricing Structure and Validity

Bidders must provide a firm unit price for:

• Smartphones
• Locking solution (software/license)
• Device insurance
• Service fees

The quoted unit prices shall remain fixed for the first twelve (12) months. For Years Two and Three, prices shall remain the same as Year One unless a price adjustment is requested and justified in writing. Any adjustment:

• Must be supported by verifiable market evidence,
• Shall not exceed 5% per year,
• Requires prior written approval by TCP Africa.

6. Delivery requirements

• Delivery of smartphones will be made upon written request from TCP Africa, in agreed batches based on program rollout needs.
• Devices shall be delivered directly toTCP Africa Office in Kigali.
• All smartphones must be ready for immediate use, including SIM activation (where applicable), required application installation, and necessary configuration.
• The supplier shall coordinate closely with TCP Africa to ensure timely distribution, delivery confirmation, and proper handover documentation.

7. Eligibility and qualifications

Vendors must demonstrate:

• Prior experience in large-scale smartphone supply/distribution.
• Partnerships with telecom providers (for proposing data and voice bundles).
• Capacity for after-sales support and insurance processing.
• Proven distribution and logistics capacity in Rwanda.

8. Proposal submission requirements

All proposals must include:
1. Company Profile

• RDB registration, and contact details
• Relevant past performance (3 references)

2. Technical Proposal

• Proposed device specifications and brand(s)
• Insurance coverage description
• Description of phone-locking solution
• Device management system
• Cost recovery model
• KYC and smartphone distribution

3. Financial Proposal

Bidders must provide separate pricing for each lot:

• Lot 1 – Unit price per smartphone
• Lot 2 – Unit price per device services

Please note that all bids must be submitted in local currency and must clearly indicate VAT.

9. Evaluation criteria

Evaluation will consider:

• Compliance with technical requirements for each lot
• Price competitiveness (per lot and combined)
• Supplier capacity to manage integrated solutions (for both lots)
• Delivery and implementation timelines
• After-sales support and risk management

TCP Africa may award both lots to a single supplier if this provides better value or operational continuity, but reserves the right to split the award between two suppliers if advantageous.

[End of RFP]