Background
The Mali Service Center (MSC) is a financial services organization that was created in 2004. The MSC was established as an independent center by the Mali Ministry of Health in partnership with the University of Sciences, Techniques, and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB) and the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The MSC provides financial management, guidance, and oversight for the administration and disbursement of research grant and contract funds in Mali. It is located on the campus of USTTB and is run by a NIAID contractor. As capacity is developed and the research portfolio grows, the MSC will transition to being self-sufficient and overseen by a Governing Board.
The MSC ensures compliance with all funding institutions’ grant and contract policies, as well as international and local regulations. It supports a variety of programs funded by several governmental and non-governmental organizations conducting research in Mali, including U.S. government agencies, U.S. and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), European research funding entities, and U.S. and international academic institutions.
Functions of the Mali Service Center
Financial Services
- Grant/contract application assistance
- Accounting
- Cash management and control
- Financial analysis
Administrative Services
- Standard operating procedures
- Trainings and meeting support
Procurement
- Procurement assistance
- Customs clearance
- Export of biologic materials
Travel Assistance
- Accommodation booking
- Travel funds management
- Registration and reservations
Human Resources
- Payroll services
- Human resources management assistance
- Recruitment assistance
Malian Regulation Compliance
- Malian Labor Code resources