Destination: Accra, Ghana

DESTINATION:

Accra | Ghana A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO THE 2015 JCI AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST CONFERENCE

Dear 2015 JCI Africa and Middle East Conference Delegates and Honored Guests, Greetings from JCI World Headquarters!

It is my great honor to welcome you to Accra, Ghana.

This year’s conference is exceptional as we celebrate 100 years of impact.

The JCI Conference Organizing Committee and JCI World Headquarters team have been developing a variety of exciting activities for the event. Delegates will be presented with unique opportunities to engage with thought leaders, receive valuable training to develop their skills and partnerships and the chance for business networking that will lead to greater collaboration for positive change.

I encourage you to make the most of your time at the JCI Africa and Middle East Conference, which is guaranteed to be an extraordinary and distinctive experience.

Take advantage of the variety of opportunities presented while enjoying the sweet hospitality of the lovely people of Ghana.

We hope that this guide will assist you while preparing for your upcoming trip and are delighted for all the experiences that await you.

The JCI World Headquarters team, the Conference Organizing Committee and I are happy to help you in any way throughout the event. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you and I look forward to seeing you from 6 – 9 May in Accra, Ghana!

Basile Djossouvi 2015 JCI Executive Vice President

Conference Information Accommodations

Explore Accra

Headquarters Hotel

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum

Phone: +233-302-21-4244 • +233-302-21-4233 Fax: +233-302-23-2619 Hotel website: www.alisahotels.com Booking and information: www.ceditravels.com

Located in the city center of Accra, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum was erected in memory of Ghana’s first president and one of its founding fathers. Built on a former British polo field, it was the location where Nkrumah declared independence in 1957.

The park consists of five acres of land and holds a museum tracing Nkrumah’s life. The centerpiece is the mausoleum, the burial place of Nkrumah and his wife.

National Museum The National Museum of Ghana is the largest and oldest of the six museums under the administration of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. The museum was opened as part of Ghana’s independence celebration.

The National Museum houses a collection of historical treasures including objects of archaeology, ethnography as well as fine art.

It is an excellent place to explore Ghana’s cultural heritage.

Independence Square Independence Square, also known as Black Star Square, was constructed to honor the visit of Queen Elizabeth II. Today, it is a site for Ghana’s Independence Day parades and major national gatherings and festivals. The square contains two monuments dedicated to Ghana’s independence: the Independence Arch and the Black Star Gate.

A statue of a solider faces the Independence Arch symbolizing the citizens of Ghana who lost their lives while fighting for Ghana’s independence.

Independence Square is the second largest city square in the world after Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China.

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Alisa Hotel North Ridge Hotel 21 Dr. Isert Road – North Ridge

Venues The majority of daytime activities of the conference will take place at the Accra International Conference Center, one of the country’s most popular places to host large-scale conferences and social events. It is located in the heart of the city and is just a 15-minute drive from the airport. The Headquarters Hotel and several evening party venues are all located near the Accra International Conference Center.

The Accra International Conference Center can easily be accessed from any of the city’s designated taxi companies at affordable fares. The Conference Organizing Committee (COC) will provide transportation between the main hotels surrounding the Headquarters Hotel and the official Conference program venues.

Learn more about the meeting’s venues at www.jciaccra2015.com.

Registration Conference delegates are strongly encouraged to register online before arriving in Accra. Upon arrival, registered delegates should pick up their name badges at the Accra International Conference Center. The registration desk will be open between 08:00 and 16:00 from 6 –8 May. Only delegates who have registered will be allowed to participate in Conference events. Admission will be restricted to delegates wearing conference badges and holding event entry tickets, when necessary.

2015 JCI Africa and the Middle East Conference: ACCRA, GHANA • 6 – 9 MAY

Airport Accra has an international airport called Kotoka International.

Kotoka International is served by the following airlines: • Air Burkina • Air Côte d’Ivoire • British Airways • Delta Air Lines • EgyptAir • Emirates • Ethiopians Airlines

• Kenya Airways • KLM • Lufthansa • Middle East Airlines • Royal Air Maroc • South African Airways

The following airlines fly to Kotoka International: • From Economic Community of West African States countries to Accra: Air Burkina, Air Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc • From Central and Equatorial African countries to Accra: Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways • From Northern African countries to Accra: Royal Air Maroc, EgyptAir • From the Middle East to Accra: Middle East Airlines, Emirates • From Europe to Accra: Royal Air Maroc, British Airways, KLM

Visas on arrival can be granted under special conditions provided advanced arrangements are made. If you require a visa upon arrival, please send an email with your passport information to coc.jciaccra2015@gmail.com immediately following your registration and payment for the conference.

The following is required to secure a visa: • Completed visa application form • Completed personal history form • Passport-sized photographs • Original vaccination certificate against Yellow Fever • Visa fee • Original passport: The validity of the passport should be more than 6 months when you apply for the visa Be sure to request a letter of invitation from the Conference Organizing Committee. Please provide your passport information when requesting the invitation letter.

Letters of invitation will only be issued after registration payment has been received.

Transportation

By Taxi The conference venue and hotels are accessible from the airport by taxi.

By Bus

Travel Visa Both a passport and travel visa are required for entry into Ghana. All visitors to Ghana must posses valid passports issued by their national governments, except nationals of any member country of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) who may produce travel certificates in lieu of passports. All non-ECOWAS citizens require visas that cost a fee before entry.

Ghana Missions and Embassies are authorized to issue visas or entry permits to all classes of visitors destined to Ghana. Where no Ghanaian Mission has been established, the visitors may apply directly or through his/her Ghanaian associate at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre at least two weeks before traveling.

Delegates traveling by bus will arrive at one of three bus terminals. Groups arriving by bus need to provide the COC with the arrival date, time and arrival bus terminal to allow the COC to meet and assist the groups to hotel upon arrival. Individuals arriving by bus should also contact the COC for directions to their hotel or the conference center.

By Shuttle The COC will provide shuttles from the airport to the recommended hotels and conference center from 5 –6 May. Transportation will be available to transport delegates to and from JCI recommended hotels each night for evening events.

The Conference Organizing Committee will provide transportation from the airport to the recommended hotels 5 – 6 May. The recommended hotels can be found at www.jciaccra2015.com.

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Conference Attire National dress, dark business suits or tuxedos, cocktail or evening dresses are appropriate for:

Explore Accra Continues Oxford Street Osu Oxford Street is a must-see commercial district in Accra. Oxford Street is the most popular street in Ghana and has obtained its name from the famous Oxford Street in London due to its busy nighttime and activities. Oxford Street is known for tourist attractions such as international restaurants and shopping malls amongst other cultural attractions. Oxford Street is also known for its fun atmosphere and nightlife.

The W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture Built in the former British colonial residential area of Accra, the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre was established as a tribute to W.E.B. Du Bois, the famous African-American scholar and crusader for civil rights. A source of inspiration to many, the centre consists of Du Bois’ African home, a research library and a gallery of manuscripts, as well as the grave of Du Bois and his wife. The memorial serves as a contemporary site of pilgrimage for scholars, artists, tourists and students.

Makola Market Makola Market is a renowned market place and shopping district in the center of downtown Accra. Shoppers can find a variety of products for sale in the markets and its surrounding streets including fresh produce, manufactured and imported foods, clothes, shoes, textiles and jewelry made from locally handcrafted beads among other items.

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• Opening Ceremony • Awards Ceremony • Presidential Gala Business suits or national dress are appropriate for: • General Assemblies • Other business sessions Business casual dress is appropriate for: • JCI Official Courses and seminars • JCI Africa and the Middle East Regional Partnership Summit Casual dress (unless otherwise indicated) is appropriate for: • National parties

About Accra, Ghana Ghana has ten regions noted for having their own culture, customs, foods and festivals. All of the regions are extremely diverse, ranging from the busy city life of Accra to the beautiful Savannah of the North; all of the regions have something unique to offer.

Ghana is home to a remarkable mix of animal species, beaches, mountains and coastlines. Accra has a mixture of modern buildings, towns and lively markets. Some of the attractions you will find in Accra include the Makola Market, the National Museum, James Fort Castle and the Flagstaff House.

Language English is the official language in Ghana. Other major languages in Ghana include Akan, Ewe, Ga, Dagbani, Nzema and Hausa. The official language of the 2015 JCI Africa and the Middle East Conference is English.

Simultaneous interpretation in the official JCI languages will be offered at certain events.

Currency The Ghana Cedi (GHC) is the currency used in Ghana.

The largest denomination you will come across is the Fifty Ghana Cedi note; the smallest denomination you will come across is the 1 pesewa copper coin.

One Ghana Cedi consists of 100 pesewas.

2015 JCI Africa and the Middle East Conference: ACCRA, GHANA • 6 – 9 MAY

Ghana is predominantly a cash society; however, credit and debit cards are also accepted. You can make purchases in major shopping outlets and hotels with your Visa or MasterCard. The majority of banks in Ghana provide ATM cash points that allow you to withdraw money with your Visa or MasterCard. There are also many Forex Bureaus where you can exchange money within working hours.

Health All hospitals require payment in advance to treatment. Be aware that there are no effective emergency services (EMS), therefore getting an ambulance is extremely difficult.

Ebola There have been no reported cases of Ebola in Ghana.

However it is recommended that travelers take the following precautions:

Weather Ghana’s weather is temperate. There are two main seasons in a year—the rainy season and the dry season. Accra is mostly sunny with temperatures ranging between 24°C to 35°C in the month of May. However, there can be short periods of downpours. We suggest adding suitable attire for cold, rainy days when packing. Also, check the weather forecast for projected weather before you travel.

Time Zone Accra, Ghana is in the UTC/GMT +0 time zone.

Electricity

• Avoid contact with symptomatic patients and their bodily fluids • Avoid close contact with live or dead animals (including monkeys, forest antelopes, rodents and bats)

Plug Type D

• Wash and peel fruits and vegetables before consumption • Follow strict hand washing routines Plug Type G

Vaccinations • Please bring your International Certificate of Vaccination.

• Evidence of immunization for Yellow Fever is required. It is strongly recommended to contact your health official at least 4 – 6 weeks prior to travel for vaccinations.

• A malaria vaccine is recommended. The best protection against malaria is prevention, remember to cover up and use repellant, especially at night.

In Ghana, electric sockets are 230V/50Hz and use G and sometimes type D plugs, which can sustain both two and three pins. Determine which adaptor or power strip is best for you at www.iec.ch/worldplugs.

Internet Access Accra offers Wi-Fi in many of its hotels and can also be accessed at local Internet cafés.

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Tourism Resources

Conference Event Highlights Trade Exhibitions The trade exhibition will be held in the main foyer of the Accra International Conference Center from 08:00 to 18:00 on 6 – 8 May and from 08:00 to 12:00 on 9 May. Interested exhibitors should contact the COC on how to secure a booth.

JCI Africa and the Middle East Regional Partnership Summit Engage the Accra community in understanding the challenge of engaging young people in 21st century civic affairs at the Africa and Middle East Regional Partnership Summit. Connect with active citizens from the local community and, across the region to explore how the coordinated efforts of all sectors of society can lead the way to empowering young people to take ownership of their community, country, world and future. Learn from experts how stakeholders from all sectors of the Africa and Middle East region can combine their knowledge, resources and skills to enable local communities to achieve sustainable impact.

With a wide range of activities, entertainment, shopping and historical tours, there is something special for everyone in Ghana. To decide how to schedule your perfect post-conference plans, visit the following sites for more information: • www.ghana.travel • www.touringghana.com • www.tripadvisor.com Please note the following restricted photography locations: The Christiansborg Castle, Osu Flagstaff House (i.e. seat of Government), High Commissions / Embassies and Military installations.

Attire in Accra In Accra, there is no dress code to abide by; delegates will see ornate traditional Ghanaian outfits alongside casual jeans and T-shirts. Women are encouraged to not wear extremely short dresses or skirts. During the conference, business suits, business casual and traditional attire will be suitable for the morning events and ceremonies. Casual attire will be suitable for the night events.

Cultural Notes Ghana’s population of over 25 million is drawn from more than one hundred ethnic groups, each of which has its own unique language.

Ghana is one of the most stable nations in the region politically, with a record of keeping peace.

Note that the left hand has limited functions in Ghana.

In particular, avoid receiving or giving, gesticulating in speech, waving at a person or pointing things out with the left hand.

Friday 8 May 09:00 – 11:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center

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2015 JCI Africa and the Middle East Conference: ACCRA, GHANA • 6 – 9 MAY

Conference Key Events Opening Ceremony Kicking off the 2015 JCI Africa and the Middle East Conference and to celebrate the JCI 100th Anniversary, JCI National Presidents and Chief Delegates will come together at the Opening Ceremony to greet the delegates, represent their countries and model their traditional dress.

Come cheer for your National Organization, enjoy great entertainment and connect with JCI’s vibrant community of young active citizens.

Wednesday 6 May 19:00 – 20:30 Main Hall • Accra International Conference Center

Impact Forums and Sessions Discover how young people, Africa and the Middle East and JCI partners are creating a better world with their actions!

First Timers Session Wednesday 6 May 16:00 – 17:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center JCI Morning Show Thursday 7 May 09:00 – 10:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center JCI International Events Thursday 7 May 14:00 – 15:30 Committee Hall 2 • Accra International Conference Center Active Citizen FrameWorkshop Friday 8 May 14:30 – 16:30 Committee Hall 2 • Accra International Conference Center

National Presidents Meeting and General Assemblies See the major decisions your National representatives will make this year to create impact across Africa and the Middle East.

National Presidents Meeting Wednesday 6 May 09:00 – 12:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center General Assembly 1 Thursday 7 May 14:00 – 17:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center General Assembly 2 Saturday 9 May 10:30 – 13:00 Committee Hall 1 • Accra International Conference Center

JCI Programs JCI members are challenged to show their impact at the international level. Don’t miss the most exciting competitions and sharing of best practices at the conference!

JCI World Public Speaking Championship Preliminary Friday 8 May 09:00 – 10:00 Meeting Room 1 • Accra International Conference Center JCI Twinning Ceremony Friday 8 May 10:30 – 12:00 Meeting Room 3 • Accra International Conference Center JCI World Debating Championship Preliminary Friday 8 May 10:30 – 12:00 Accra International Conference Center English: Room 117A French: Room 220 JCI Awards Ceremony Saturday 9 May 18:30 – 21:30 Main Hall • Banquet Hall

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National Nights and Parties JCI members work hard all day to improve themselves and the world around them, but there’s no reason we can’t party too. On these nights, you’ll find friends from all over Africa and the Middle East enjoying the native food and drink of the host JCI National Organization. Check your schedule for times and venues, or just wait until nightfall and follow the crowds.

Welcome Party Wednesday 6 May 20:30 – 23:00 Garden • Accra International Conference Center Nations Night Thursday 7 May 20:00 – 00:00 Garden • Accra International Conference Center Ghana Night Friday 8 May 20:00 – TBA Garden • Cleaver House

Contact Information Conference Organizing Committee The Conference Organizing Committee can be reached via email or telephone with any of the contacts provided below: Phone: +233-243-70-4391 • +233-233-70-4470 info@jciaccra2015.com coc.jciaccra2015@gmail.com Also, the contact page of the conference website (www.jciaccra2015.com) has email addresses of all Conference Organizing Committee heads and a web form through which the Conference Organizing Committee can be contacted.

Emergency In the event of emergency, call the following numbers: • Ambulance: 193 • Emergency police: 191 • Fire: 192 /199