REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) 

UX Research and Design Services: Kuyakhanya Digital Platform – South Africa 

IRD Global invites proposals from qualified firms with demonstrated experience in UX research, product design, and digital platform development to support the design of a digital monitoring and engagement platform for the Kuyakhanya Programme in South Africa. 

About the Kuyakhanya Program 

Kuyakhanya (meaning “there is light” in isiZulu) is an integrated Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiative implemented through a hub-and-spoke model in rural South Africa. The programme combines play-based early learning, caregiver mental health support, nutrition, and community engagement to strengthen ecosystems of care for children aged birth to five years. 

Following early implementation across multiple districts in KwaZulu-Natal, IRD Global seeks proposals from qualified digital product design firms to help build a user-centered, reliable digital platform to support program service delivery and outcomes measures. 

Who should apply 

We welcome applications from: 

• UX and product design firms 
• Digital platform and human-centered design agencies 
• Firms with experience in public health, ECD, or social sector platforms 
• Consortia combining UX and engineering expertise 

Scope of Work 

The selected firm will lead UX research, workflow design, and development of prototypes for the Kuyakhanya digital platform. The engagement will focus on defining user needs, translating them into practical system workflows, and delivering a design foundation to inform future platform development. 

Detailed scope, deliverables, and timelines are outlined in the full RfP document 

Submission Instructions 

• RFP document: Click here to download 
• Deadline: April 21, 2026 
• Submission Email: procurement@ird.global 
• Subject line: Proposal Submission – Kuyakhanya UX Research and Design 

For queries, contact: procurement@ird.global 
(Questions due by April 12, 2026; responses shared via FAQ with all interested bidders).