State Department Awards Large Construction Contract for Infrastructure in the Republic of Congo
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $534,371,687 ($534.4M)
Contractor: BL Harbert International LLC
Awarding Agency: Department of State
Start Date: 2022-09-28
End Date: 2029-02-19
Sector: Construction
Official Description: NEC - KINSHASA REPUBLIC OF CONGO
Plain-Language Summary
Department of State obligated $534.4 million to BL HARBERT INTERNATIONAL LLC for work described as: NEC - KINSHASA REPUBLIC OF CONGO Key points: 1. Significant investment in international infrastructure development. 2. Competition was limited, with one primary contractor selected. 3. Potential risks include geopolitical instability and project execution challenges in a complex environment.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of over $534 million represents a substantial commitment to the project. While the exact breakdown of costs isn't provided, the scale suggests a well-defined scope of work.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: sole-source
The contract was awarded to BL Harbert International LLC. The 'definitive contract' designation suggests a direct award, potentially limiting broader competition.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being utilized for significant international infrastructure improvements.
Public Impact
Enhances U.S. presence and influence in the region. Potential for local job creation during construction. Improves critical infrastructure for the host nation.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Geopolitical risks in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Logistical challenges for construction materials and personnel.
- Potential for cost overruns due to unforeseen circumstances.
Positive Signals
- Addresses critical infrastructure needs.
- Long-term commitment to stability and development.
- Leverages experienced contractor expertise.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the broader sector of international development and construction, focusing on building essential infrastructure in a developing nation.
Small Business Impact
The contract was not set aside for small businesses. The scale and nature of the project likely favored larger, experienced international contractors.
Oversight & Accountability
The Department of State, as the awarding and contracting agency, will be responsible for oversight. Regular reporting and site inspections will be crucial for accountability.
Related Government Programs
- International Infrastructure Development
- Construction Services
- Foreign Affairs Spending
Risk Flags
- Geopolitical Instability
- Logistical Complexity
- Contractor Performance Risk
Tags
state-department, construction, democratic-republic-of-congo, infrastructure, international-development, definitive-contract, bl-harbert-international-llc
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of State awarded $534.4 million to BL HARBERT INTERNATIONAL LLC. NEC - KINSHASA REPUBLIC OF CONGO
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is BL HARBERT INTERNATIONAL LLC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of State (Department of State).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $534.4 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2022-09-28. End: 2029-02-19.
Analysis insight 1
The contract duration extends over several years, indicating a phased approach to construction.
Analysis insight 2
The specific type of infrastructure being built is not detailed but is crucial for the region's development.
Analysis insight 3
Understanding the risk mitigation strategies employed by the State Department and the contractor is key.