1. BACKGROUND
Life Initiative for Change (LIC) is a Zambian NGO dedicated to advocating for the rights of women, girls, and other vulnerable populations. LIC envisions a society where these groups can enhance their livelihoods and thrive in supportive environments. Our mission focuses on strengthening and amplifying community-driven solutions that address the unique needs of vulnerable populations in the areas of Health, Poverty Alleviation, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Social Governance.
LIC is strategically focused on four key areas:

1. Equitable Access to Health Services: We prioritize sexual and reproductive health services, particularly for women and girls, ensuring they have access to the care and support they need.
2. Poverty Alleviation: We empower vulnerable women and youth through entrepreneurship and vocational skills training while facilitating income-generating activities, enabling them to achieve economic independence and resilience.
3. Disaster Risk Reduction: We implement programs that prevent hazards resulting from climate change and other drivers from escalating into disasters, particularly in at-risk communities, thereby safeguarding lives and livelihoods and enhancing resilience.
4. Social Governance: We address critical social issues such as gender-based violence and adolescent pregnancies, promoting inclusive governance that supports and protects all members of society.

In accordance with grant financing provisions, LIC is required to have its accounts audited regularly according to the standards outlined in the Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting and Auditing, conforming with International Standards of Auditing (ISAs) and the Companies Act of 2017 in Zambia

In accordance with the general provisions for grant funding, LIC is required to appoint an independent Auditor to audit the accounts relating to the project in accordance with the above. Therefore, LIC would like to engage a reputable audit firm to carry out the statutory audit for the financial year ending November 30, 2024. The contract will be for a three-year period, renewable subject to satisfactory performance.

2. AUDIT OBJECTIVES
The objective of the Life Initiative for Change Annual Audit is to obtain reasonable assurance that the financial statements reflect a true and fair view of the organization’s financial affairs. The audit will be performed in accordance with International Standards of Auditing (ISAs). The audit report will include an Independent Auditor’s Report on the financial statements, along with any other required schedules or analyses deemed necessary by LIC to ensure proper management of program resources. The auditors will also assess compliance with the provisions of the Zambia Companies Act (2017) and relevant regulatory authorities.

3. SCOPE OF WORK
The successful External Auditor will cover the headquarters offices in Zambia. The audit will conform with IISAs. Findings and recommendations should include an action plan for organizational and accounting improvements based on the audit results, along with management comments.

4. AUDITORS EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
The audit firm must employ staff with appropriate professional qualifications and suitable experience in IFAC standards, particularly in verifying financial information for organizations comparable to LIC. Required qualifications include:

• Experience with donor-funded projects by national and/or international donors.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations, including taxation and social security.
• Experience in audit reporting under IFRS, ISA, and IPSAS.
• At least five years’ experience in conducting audits.
• Three references for similar audits performed within the last three years.
• A detailed audit methodology, proposed work plan, and Curriculum Vitae for the partner, manager, and key staff on the audit team.
• Confirmation of independence from LIC in the engagement letter.
• Disclosure of any actual or potential conflicts of interest.

5. DELIVERABLES

The key deliverables expected from the audit will include:

• Audited Financial Statements indicating the auditors’ opinion regarding compliance with accounting standards and a true and fair view of the organization’s financial position.
• A Management Letter highlighting matters that are not material to the financial statements but require management action.

6.SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Interested firms should submit their Technical and Financial Proposals using the link provided in the Request for Proposals (RFP). The proposal should not exceed 20 pages, excluding statutory requirements, which should be attached separately. The subject line of the proposal should clearly state, “LIC EXTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES.” Proposals should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer.

• Mode of submission: Only electronically submitted proposals will be accepted.
• Email for submission: lic.lifeiniative4change@gmail.com copy info@liczambia.org
• Submission deadline: Proposals must be submitted by December 24, 2024, at 12:00 AM Central African Time.

Only shortlisted bidders will be invited for an interview at LIC offices on a date to be communicated. For any inquiries, please email lic.lifeiniative4change@gmail.com copy info@liczambia.org no later than three days before the deadline.

7. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Life Initiative for Change provides equal opportunity and fair treatment in employment to all individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. We are committed to promoting diversity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply. All applications will be evaluated fairly.

8. CONCLUSION
We encourage qualified firms to apply for this opportunity to partner with LIC in achieving our mission. Your expertise is crucial in helping us maintain transparency and accountability in our financial management.