it is a good idea to tune in to the latest news reports,for up to date info along the way,as there is a real risk of sailing into an epidemic,or coup attempt!
here are some frequencies and links to
current news providers.
BBC Africa Radio Programmes | BBC World Service
Africa Today :: Voice of the Continent
Africa - BBC News
also when taking on
fuel it is sometimes advisable to go stern too,med moor style to the
dock,which are generally pretty roughwith cracked concrete and protruding rebar etc,it also keeps unwanted visitors off the
boat.
also advisable to filter fuel,and have plenty of spare fuel containers.
as fuel is generally supplied to ships via a3'nozzle provision for some sort of reducer is advisable as well.
having a long plank to protect the
hull and fenders is also advisable if going alongside.
treat all
water as suspect if filling
tanks as quite often the local supply gets turned off causing leaking infrastructure to draw in dirty
water from puddles.
it is advisable to keep someone on board at all times,preferably armed unless in a secure compound when visiting
Africa,we have in the past used paid "askarie's", recommended by the port
captain or local sailing club.
make sure to have enough malaria "treatment" tablets to treat all the crew at least once on
passage,as incubation period is 2 weeks,so there is a good chance of having to treat this killer at sea!
do contact in advance local sailing clubs at future stops they are generally very happy to advise and help visitors.
having cigarettes coca cola and small gifts,like perfume,deodorant,boat cards,lighters,pens etc generally suffice instead of requests for cash from officials.
on arrival the
customs,immigration,health,port police,military police,secret police,port
captain will all want to come aboard,be polite,but firm,i generally try to conduct business in the
cockpit,but if they do want to inspect the vessel,having all the hatches closed,and the kettle simmering on the
stove.......keeps the visit short!
it would be great to get some feedback from your friends on their trip,as the region after Senegal is little visited by yacht,so any reports greatly appreciated on the forum.
good luck atoll