Inspection of Embassy Cairo, Egypt

Embassy Cairo, in coordination with the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, should disseminate Department-wide a written procedure for ambassadorial review and approval of all foreign assistance activities where Egypt is a place of performance.

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, in coordination with the Office of the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, should develop and implement a standardized, on-line application form for its exchange programs.

Embassy Cairo should develop and implement a policy for consistent branding of U.S-sponsored public events that takes into consideration the complex security situation in Egypt.

Embassy Cairo should provide training in operation of emergency communication equipment and other crisis skills to American and locally employed consular staff members and implement a policy of regular, periodic drills to test the effectiveness of this training.

Embassy Cairo should establish specific standards for the provision and processing of passport and citizenship services.

Embassy Cairo should prepare an annual acquisition plan including market research to identify the best contract method for competition and possible cost savings.

Embassy Cairo should conduct an annual purchase card review as required by Department regulations.

Embassy Cairo should develop and implement standard operating procedures for information systems security officer duties.

Embassy Cairo should implement standard operating procedures requiring the Local IT Configuration Control Board to review and approve all locally developed software applications before deployment for operation on Department information system networks.

Embassy Cairo, in coordination with the Bureau of Administration, should implement procedures to maintain and retire official hard copy and electronic records.

Embassy Cairo should implement standard operating procedures for managing mobile devices that include authorization, issuance, tracking and inventory.

Embassy Cairo should update and test IT contingency plans for the unclassified and classified systems.

Embassy Cairo should perform monthly tests on all portable satellite terminals and associated contingency equipment.

Embassy Cairo should train key personnel to operate and maintain portable satellite terminal and associated contingency equipment.

Embassy Cairo, in coordination with the Bureau of Information Resource Management, should update and test the communications appendix in the emergency action plan.

Embassy Cairo should obtain from each resident of mission housing a signed statement of receipt and condition of residential household inventory.

Embassy Cairo should establish internal controls to bring procurement files in compliance with Federal regulations.

Embassy Cairo should assign unannounced cash count responsibilities to personnel in Consulate General Alexandria.

Embassy Cairo, in coordination with the Bureau of Administration, should require the American Employee’s Welfare Association to develop and submit to the Office of Commissary and Recreation Affairs a management plan and financial strategy for use of its excess funding.