Quarterly Report: October 1 to December 31, 2020 (FY21Q1)

The activity focused on supporting the mission's health office in various areas, including analytics for impact, knowledge stewardship and use, capacity building, and program and operations support services. Technical support services were provided in several key areas. Analytics for Impact focused on developing and implementing data-driven solutions to inform decision-making. Knowledge Stewardship and Use aimed to improve the use of strategic information to support program implementation and evaluation. Capacity Building involved developing the capacity of the USAID/South Africa mission to implement effective programs and manage operations. Capacity Development and Process Reengineering for Program Success was a key component of the capacity building effort. This involved supporting the mission in developing and implementing processes to improve program effectiveness and efficiency. Support for USAID Leadership for Epidemic Control was also provided, focusing on developing the capacity of the mission to lead and manage epidemic control efforts. Program and Operations Support Services included recruiting and hiring long- and short-term program and operations staff to fill critical staffing needs. The activity also supported strategic planning and management of the co-management of HIV service delivery and COVID-19 response activities. The activity also provided administrative support to the USAID/South Africa mission. Panagora Group expanded its capacity to meet the needs of the mission, including providing regular engagement with the USAID/South Africa health team to meet changing needs. Short-term technical assistance was recruited via Panagora's consultant database to support the mission's needs. Lessons learned and recommendations were identified during the quarter. These included the importance of developing a clear understanding of the mission's needs and priorities, as well as the need for effective communication and collaboration between the activity and the mission. Plans for the upcoming quarter included continuing to provide technical support services, capacity building, and program and operations support to the USAID/South Africa mission. The activity also supported various projects and initiatives, including the Tuberculosis South Africa Project, the DREAMS strategy, and the Southern Africa HIV and AIDS Regional Exchange (SHARE). These projects aimed to improve the health outcomes of people living with HIV, tuberculosis, and other health issues in South Africa. The activity was led by a team of experts, including the Global Health Director, Jasmine Buttolph, and the Panagora South Africa Country Director, Katie Reichert. The team worked closely with the USAID/South Africa mission to provide technical support services and capacity building to support the mission's health office. Overall, the Technical Support Services Activity provided critical support to the USAID/South Africa mission during the quarter, focusing on technical assistance, capacity building, and program and operations support. The activity will continue to provide support to the mission in the upcoming quarter, building on the lessons learned and recommendations identified during the quarter.