August 5, 2024 / by admin / 0 Comments

1. Overview

The RUFORUM Triennial Conference, scheduled to take place in Windhoek, Namibia, from 12th to 16th August 2024, is a significant event for the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM). This conference, under the theme "Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation, and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action," will bring together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss and promote agricultural education and research in Africa.

2. Visa

Many participants have applied for their visas online ahead of their travel to Namibia. For those who successfully applied, kindly save your reference number. If your visa is successfully processed, please print that confirmation form or have an electronic copy that is easily accessible. Our reference contact person for visa related queries in Namibia is Dr. Aune Sam, asam@unam.na; WhatsApp +264812336112.
 
Upon arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, head to the ‘Visa on arrival’ office which is clearly labelled within the airport to make payments for your visa. Please note that;

  1. If you successfully applied and got a reference number and or have your visa approved, you will be expected to pay 600 NAD, otherwise you will pay 1200 NAD. Once done, you proceed to immigration counters.
  2. For holders of Official and Diplomatic passports, you are expected to go straight to the immigration counters for clearance.

Please take note that visa payment on arrival is strictly in Namibian Dollars, South Africa Rands or by use of visa cards.
 
3. Weather and Clothing
During the month of August, Namibia usually experiences its winter season, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Attendees are advised to pack:

  • Daytime: Light layers, comfortable clothing, and a hat for sun protection.
  • Evening: Warmer clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves to keep warm during cooler evenings and very early mornings.

4. Accommodation Booking
The main conference events will be held at Mercure Hotel Windhoek  Corner of Auas, 10005, and Aviation Road, Windhoek, Namibia

Self-sponsored Participants are encouraged to book their accommodation early to secure the best options. Recommended hotels near the conference venue include:

  1. Hilton Windhoek: A five-star hotel offering luxury amenities and excellent service.
  2. Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino: Centrally located with modern facilities and comfortable rooms.
  3. Windhoek Country Club Resort: Known for its spacious rooms and serene environment.

Please share your hotel booking details with the RUFORUM Secretariat team to enable us plan for your airport pickups and transportation during the conference.

5. Meals and Dietary Preferences
Namibia offers a variety of meal options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. Vegan and vegetarian participants are encouraged to communicate their dietary preferences to ensure suitable meal arrangements.

6. Childcare Facilities
Participants who require babysitting services during the conference are advised to communicate in advance. This will allow the organizers to make appropriate arrangements and ensure the availability of suitable facilities.

7. Travel and Layover Information
For those traveling via airlines, which often have layovers exceeding eight hours, it is recommended to:

  • Utilize lounge facilities at your cost, at the airport for comfort.
  • Explore any available short tours or activities offered by the airline during the layover.

8. Conference Field Tour
A conference field tour is scheduled for Sunday, August 11, 2024. This tour will provide participants with an opportunity to visit key agricultural sites and engage with local experts. Please plan to take part in the various tours.

9. Airport/Hotel Transfers
Transportation from the Airport to designated hotels will be arranged for conference participants. Details on airport pick-up services will be communicated closer to the event dates. Please ensure that your flight itinerary has been communicated and or captured by the Secretariat to facilitate airport transfers.

10. Local Currency
The Namibian Dollar (NAD) is the official currency of business transaction. South African Rands are also widely accepted. Currency exchange facilities are available at the airport and in major hotels and banks in Windhoek. Also visa services are widely accepted and functional, including virtual visas. 1 USD = 18.22NAD

11. Language
English is the official language of Namibia and is widely spoken in Windhoek. Afrikaans, German, and various indigenous languages are also prevalent.

12. Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available at the various hotels and mobile data services are also available in Windhoek. Local SIM cards can be purchased at the airport and various retail outlets in the city.

13. Electronics
Namibia operates on a 220-240V supply voltage and uses Type D and M plugs. Visitors are advised to bring appropriate adapters if necessary.

 
14. Additional Information

  • Registration: Participants are encouraged to complete their registration online as soon as possible. Please visit the RUFORUM Triennial Conference website for more details
  • Contact: For any further inquiries or special requests, please contact the RUFORUM Secretariat at triennial@ruforum.org with a copy to secretariat@ruforum.org.

For more information on other logistics such as emergencies and Security please read more details in; English, Portuguese or French

We look forward to welcoming you to Windhoek for a productive and enriching conference experience.