This Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) is for information, planning and market research purposes only and shall not be construed as either a solicitation or obligation on the part of the United States Department of State ("State"). The purpose of this RFI is to identify ALL INTERESTED VENDORS that are capable of providing the services described in this RFI, draft Section C Performance Work Statement (PWS) and draft Section H Special Contract Requirements. The Department of State is also conducting market research to determine the degree of interest and capability by small businesses in providing local guard services at the U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin. State will use this market research information to assess the market's capability to successfully meet State's need for local guard services at the U.S. Mission Cotonou. State does not intend to make a decision or award a contract on the basis of responses nor otherwise reimburse interested sources for the preparation of any information submitted for State's use of such information. State reserves the right to contact vendors if additional information is required. Overview: The Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security plays an essential role in ensuring that foreign policy missions are accomplished in a safe and secure environment. The primary mission of the local guard service is to provide protection for United States personnel, facilities, and equipment from damage or loss due to violent attack and theft. The local guard services shall prevent unauthorized access; protect life; maintain order; deter criminal and terrorist attacks against employees, dependents, and property; and prevent damage to all U.S. assets. The NAICS code for these services is 561612. Responses must clearly demonstrate capabilities through examples of previous and/or current guard security contracts or experience closely related thereto. Vendors must specifically address the following capabilities: Current licenses, work authorizations in compliance with host country law required for the execution of work, including firearms permits and licenses. Licenses must be in the name of the U.S. small business. Knowledge of and compliance with host country labor law which may require bonuses, specific minimum wage levels, premium pay for holidays, payments for social security, pensions, severance pay, sick or health benefits, childcare or any other benefit Knowledge of and compliance with host country tax law Ability to provide all types of insurance coverage required by host country in performance of services, such as automobile liability, comprehensive general liability, worker's compensation, employer's liability, etc. Furnishing, operating, and maintaining a radio network, including acquiring all licenses and permits that may be required for frequencies and the operation of all communications equipment Familiarity or experience with associated security equipment such as Guard Electronic Monitoring Syst…