Evidence Action scales evidence-based and cost-effective programs to reduce poverty. Our Safe Water Now (SWN) program, which provides chlorine dispensers at community water points, is expanding to Northern Nigeria. We are launching a 21-month pilot in Bauchi State to test critical adaptations, including a paid promoter model and a Community-Based Organization (CBO) delivery model.
Evidence Action is seeking a qualified research firm to conduct a formative assessment using Human-Centered Design (HCD) to generate actionable insights that will shape program design and early implementation.
Objective of the Consultancy
The primary goal is to understand user needs, behaviors, and contextual factors specific to Northern Nigeria. Key objectives include:
Community Water Practices: Understanding current water collection, storage, and treatment behaviors.
Messaging Strategies: Identifying credible messengers and communication channels that resonate locally.
Promoter Model Design: Exploring the feasibility of paid versus unpaid structures and preferred selection criteria.
CBO Partnership: Evaluating community trust in local organizations and the capacity of potential partners.
Scope of Work
The selected firm will lead all aspects of data collection and analysis across four phases:
Phase 1: Planning: Finalizing methodology, sampling frameworks, and translating instruments into Hausa.
Phase 2: Data Collection: Conducting approximately 16 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), 50-60 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and structured observations at water points, households, and markets.
Phase 3: Analysis: Systematic thematic analysis and drafting a comprehensive findings report.
Phase 4: Co-Creation: Facilitating a one-day workshop in Bauchi to collaboratively develop design recommendations.
Required Qualifications & Eligibility
Interested firms must meet the following criteria:
Experience: Proven expertise in Human-Centered Design (HCD) for health programs and qualitative research, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Legal Status: Must be a registered company/business with a Certificate of Incorporation (CAC).
Compliance: Must have a valid FIRS TIN, VAT Certificate, and Tax Clearance Certificate.
Integrity: Applicants must not be bankrupt, in a conflict of interest with Evidence Action, or on any U.S. government sanction lists.
How to apply
For more detailed information, including the full research objectives and technical themes, please access the full Request for Proposal (RFP) via this link
Proposals must be submitted electronically to [email protected]
Deadline: 5:00 PM WAT, February 23rd, 2026.
