Hofokam Ltd, a leading credit only microfinance institution head quartered in Fort Portal city and operates throughout western Uganda and with a plan of scaling up to cover the entire country. Hofokam invites proposals from qualified consultants or consulting firms to develop a comprehensive digitization strategy. The strategy should support the modernization of Hofokam’s operations and enhance customer service and competitiveness in the dynamic financial sector.
2. Background
Hofokam is committed to improving the financial well-being of its clients, especially those in rural communities. Recognizing the rapid advancements in technology, Hofokam aims to digitize its operations to ensure continued growth, efficiency, and sustainability.
3. Objective of the Assignment
The main objective of this RFP is to design a digitization strategy that;
a) Analyzes Hofokam’s current processes and identifies digitization opportunities.
b) Provides a clear roadmap for integrating digital technologies.
c) Aligns with Hofokam’s mission to offer accessible and sustainable financial services.
4. Scope of Work
The consultant will be responsible for:
a) Situation Analysis: Reviewing current operations, conducting a SWOT analysis, and evaluating the competitive landscape.
b) Stakeholder Engagement: Gathering insights from key stakeholders including management, staff, and customers.
c) Technology Assessment: Evaluating existing technology infrastructure and recommending enhancements.
d) Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and proposing mitigation strategies.
e) Roadmap Development: Creating a phased implementation plan with short, medium, and long-term goals.
f) Capacity Building: Proposing training programs to ensure staff adaptation and skill development.
5. Deliverables
The project will require the following outputs:
a) Inception Report: Detailing methodology and timelines.
b) Situation Analysis Report: Overview of current processes and opportunities.
c) Technology and Risk Assessment Report.
d) Comprehensive Digitization Strategy Document.
e) Capacity Building Plan.
f) Final Presentation to Hofokam’s management.
6. Project Timeline
The expected project duration is two months:
a) Inception Report: Within 5 days of project start.
b) Situation Analysis Report: 2 weeks from project start.
c) Technology and Risk Assessment: 3 weeks from project start.
d) Draft Digitization Strategy: 6 weeks from project start.
e) Final Strategy Document: End of the 2-month period.
7. Consultant Qualifications
Applicants should possess:
a) Proven experience in digitization strategy development, especially in financial services or microfinance.
b) Strong knowledge of fintech, business process analysis, and risk management.
c) Stakeholder engagement experience.
d) Familiarity with Uganda’s regulatory and technological environment.
8. Reporting
The consultant will report to the Managing Director and coordinate with the Head of Business Technology and IT Department.
9. Proposal Submission Requirements
Consultants should submit proposals including:
1. A detailed and updated CV including three referees (for individuals) or company profile (for firms).
2. A work plan and methodology.
3. Budget and payment structure.
4. Experience and references letters.
10. Budget and Payment Terms
The budget should be competitive, with payment milestones as follows
a) 20% upon submission of the Inception Report.
b) 30% upon completion of the Situation Analysis and Technology Assessment.
c) 50% upon approval of the Final Digitization Strategy Document.