Coronavirus - Message du président du comité directeur du GI WACAF, Rupert Bravery

We are in unprecedented times with a world-wide virus fundamentally affecting everything that we all do. Covid-19 limitations and Government instructions have placed huge but necessary restrictions on how we all operate. London, from where we run the GI WACAF Project, is at the epicentre of the UK storm.

At GI WACAF we make no distinction between our concern for the health and safety of our beneficiary countries in Africa, for that of our team, Julien Favier and Emilie Canova, and for that of society at large. In this context, as a precautionary measure and in alignment with United Nations guidelines, it was therefore decided to postpone missions and technical cooperation activities in region until further notice. I firmly believe that this is in the best interests of everyone.

At the same time however, despite this temporary period of uncertainty, the work that we do must continue for the certain benefit of West Africa and our members and partners. So whilst all face to face meetings have been postponed, Julien and Emilie continue to work from home, running GI WACAF with frequent phone and digital contact with in country focal points, industry members, IMO, IPIECA and related professionals. Our heartfelt thanks go out to them for their continued backing to safely deliver our technical cooperation programme in these most challenging times. As the situation further develops, we will endeavour to keep you updated.

As ever your continued support also sustains us. Myself and my fellow Board members of GI WACAF wish you and your families good health and best wishes for the challenging months ahead.

Rupert Bravery

Chairman