EXHIBITOR INFORMATION
Africa Endeavor has grown from an annual command exercise into an information sharing and communications summit which now includes participation from industry exhibitors. Attendees at this event are able to meet face to face with solutions providers and discuss firsthand the challenges they face, and opportunities to building future relationships.
Exhibitors will display their products and services and offer demonstrations throughout the Symposium on Wednesday and Thursday. There will also be time for vendor interactions with the attendees during the Meet & Greet on Tuesday so please plan travel accordingly.
Exhibitors will get the chance to introduce their solutions to attendees, as well as network with the participants throughout the week, and should be prepared to address how they can meet current capability gaps. The African partner nations are looking to be educated on your solutions. Brush up on the current environment on the continent, understand their processes/problems, and explain how your solution meets those needs.
REPRESENTATIVE AND EQUIPMENT REGISTRATION (REQUIRED)
Please make sure all participants have registered here as we do need up-to-date contact information to communicate event details. Please also provide brief details about all equipment being brought into the country.
This includes:
- Full Names of Exhibitor Representatives and Passport Numbers
- Brief Description of Items
Please complete the required information by Friday, June 27.
EXPECTED ATTENDANCE
150 attendees with representation from over 40+ African Countries, International Organizations (AU, EU, UN, NATO), Regional Economic Communities, DoD agencies, African Components, and International Interagency Partners.
EXHIBITOR PORTAL (REQUIRED)
Update your exhibitor profile to include your company description, representatives, key technologies, and contact details. This information will be used to populate your online exhibitor listing as well as the printed program guide. Please use the link below to log-in to your account. If you have previously registered as an attendee or an exhibitor rep for one of our events, you can use the same email address and password. If not, you will need to select “Set/Reset/Forget Password” to set a password. Be sure to use the email address that we have on file at NCSI.
Once you are logged in, you will see the option to manage different events that your company has registered to attend. Because each event contains its own specific fields, the information will not copy over from one event to the next and you will need to edit each of the events individually.
POWER
In Benin, you’ll primarily find power outlets of Type C and Type E. Type C plugs have two round pins, while Type E plugs have two round pins and a hole for a grounding pin. The standard voltage in Benin is 220V at 50Hz; please ensure your devices are appropriately rated.
CURRENCY
The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is currently used in Benin. The hotel venue and most major facilities accept debit/credit cards. Currency exchange is available at the airport, or local currency can be withdrawn from ATMs in Cotonou.
AIRPORT
Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport
SHIPPING
Shipping is on your own. It is encouraged to hand carry as much as possible to avoid any shipping incidents.
BENIN ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Travelers to Benin must present a valid passport, visa, and proof of Yellow Fever vaccination to enter the country. Visas are not available upon entry at the airport or at any land or sea arrival point.
VISA: For Benin Visa information, visit beninembassy.us/visas.
PASSPORT: A valid Official or Tourist passport may be utilized for entry – ensure 6 months of remaining validity.
DOING BUSINESS
Familiarize yourself with the country’s embassy Office of Defense Cooperation and AFRICOM’s FMS program. The U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program facilitates sales of U.S. arms, defense equipment, defense services, and military training to foreign governments. These are the major avenues from which these nations can acquire new technologies. Exhibitors are welcome to collect contact information of the participants, but be mindful they do not have purchasing power. They will work via their embassy to procure equipment.
Attendees will expect companies to address how they can meet current capability gaps, they are looking to be educated on your solutions. Brush up on the current environment on the continent, understand their processes/problems, and explain how your solution meets those needs.
SAFETY
General Health
The following diseases and illnesses are prevalent:
- Yellow Fever
- Malaria
- Dengue
- Chikungunya
- HIV/AIDS
- Lassa Fever
Make sure all vaccines are up to date. You must receive a yellow fever vaccine and must present a World Health Organization Yellow Card (Carte Jaune) at entry to document that the vaccine was administered. Visit the World Health Organization for more information on the Yellow Card and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information about obtaining a yellow fever vaccine.
Diarrheal illnesses are very common. You should follow food safety precautions. Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents, and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers, even for short stays.
You are advised to bring: diarrhea medicine (i.e., Imodium, Pepto-Bismol), antihistamine, mild laxative, pain/fever medicine, hand sanitizer, water purification tablets, bed net, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Water Quality
In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
Crime and security
Crimes such as robbery and assault occur in Benin. These crimes often happen at night and in isolated locations. Crime occurs more frequently in urban areas and crowded markets. Travelers should avoid the Dantokpa Market between the hours of dusk and dawn.