.com I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N MONROVIA, LIBERIA
G U I D E
NOVEMBER 13 - 20, 2024
I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N
I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the International Regional Director pg 03 Message from International Region Programming pg 04 Welcome from Eta Beta Omega Chapter pg 05 Schedule at a Glance pg 06 Registration Details pg 07 What to Know Before You Go pg 08 Travel Requirements pg 09 Shots and Vaccines pg 11 Flight Information pg12 Hotel Information pg 13 Get to Know Monrovia pg 14 Must Visit Attractions pg 15 Health Emergencies & Contacts pg 16 Chapter Contacts pg 17
Greetings Sorors,
As Alpha Kappa Alpha women, our sisterhood was founded based on a dedication to service When we serve, we change lives. When we serve, we build communities. When we serve, we soar! It gives me great pleasure to invite you to serve together as one region during our 2024 International Regionwide Service Project in Monrovia, Liberia, November 13- 20, 2024.
Sorors, during this very special service trip, we will be “Soaring in Service,” which is our theme for this week-long service project. On a daily basis we will activate many of our Soaring program initiatives: Strengthen Our Sisterhood, Empower Our Families, Build Our Economic Wealth, Enhance Our Environment and Uplift Our Local Community.
We will have an opportunity to distribute food through our CHIPP power packs, help to end period poverty by distributing menstrual kits and we will plant and beautify a park and school grounds. In addition, there will be plenty of time for us to have fun and do some sightseeing.
For many of us, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience Something happens when we serve together Our sisterly bond becomes strengthened through the sincerity of our service.
I sincerely hope that you can come with us. Be sure to read through the information in this document thoroughly and register for this unforgettable experience. I hope you see you in Monrovia!
Sincerely,
Carrie J Clark
Soror Carrie J. Clark International Regional Director
A T I O N A L R E G I O N
TM
The International Region is Soaring to Greater Heights of Service and Sisterhood through impactful program implementation Cultural differences, geographical distances, and dynamic governing laws in each country have led chapters to be innovative in executing the Soaring Initiatives the Ingenious Way.
Regionally, the quest to seek creative ways to strengthen our bonds and increase program impact across continents has been a priority. For this reason, the inaugural Region-Wide Service Project is an opportune time for sorors to unite to Soar in Service and leave a lasting impact in Monrovia.
During the 2024 Region-Wide Service Project, prepare to be immersed in the Monrovia community to gain invaluable hands-on experiences focused on three main transformational projects: Project I, “Three Generations in a Day,” which will address the initiatives, Empower our Families, Uplift Our Local Communities, and Build Our Economic Wealth; Project II, “A Park in a Day, Gardening and School Facelift,” involves activities that align with the Enhance Our Environment Initiative; and Project III, “Ending Period Poverty,” a signature project of the Eta Beta Omega Chapter aimed at educating young women about menses and providing them with menstrual kits. Additionally, there will be ongoing activities that promote strengthening our sisterhood and encourage supporting black-owned businesses, so plan to Wear Pink, Spend Green and Buy Black. Service to all mankind is the rent we pay while living on this earth.
Please plan to serve and soar with us in Monrovia, Liberia on this Region-Wide Service Project journey.
Misti-Dawn Curry
Soror Misti-Dawn Curry
International Region Representative to the International Programming Committee +971 569299462
akairprograms@gmail.com
O N
Eta Beta Omega Chapter EtaBetaOmega Welcomesyou!
“Kai
Sheipe”, “Yah Kone”, “Ah Nah Wehyon”, “Yakunah”
The Sorors of Eta Beta Omega Chapter, welcome you to the Inaugural Region-Wide Service Project We are elated to receive you in Monrovia, Liberia, the host city for the service trip from Nov 13-20, 2024
Our Basileus, Soror Marcelle Abdallah, 1st Anti-Basileus and Program Chair, Soror Caroline Richards Klark, Cluster Coordinator, Soror Clarine Simpson Vaughn, together with the 2024 Service Project Committee, have curated an elevated week of sisterhood and service, during the first Region-Wide Service Project in Liberia, where we are known for many firsts. We are the first independent nation in Africa, we had the first democratically elected female head of state of an African country, our Golden Member, HE Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and yes, Eta Beta Omega Chapter is the first international chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
We invite you to join us as we strengthen the bonds of sisterhood through Soror Squads, and Enhance of Environment as we yes, put together a Park in a Day! Together we will build our economic legacy by supporting women entrepreneurs, sharing best practices for saving and investing, and wearing pink, buying black and spending green with local vendors. We will alleviate childhood hunger by providing CHIPP Power Packs, to two schools in lowincome communities, and uplift our local community through our award-winning “Ending Period Poverty” program initiative aimed at keeping girls in school by providing reusable sanitary kits
We are pleased to share this travel guide to provide useful information and practical references as you plan for what will truly be a memorable experience.
I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N
WeWelcomeYOU! 0 5 ® TM
AT-A-GLANCE
Date Program Initiative Summary of Activities
Wednesday, November 13th Arrivals
Thursday, November 14th Strengthen Our Sisterhood Soror Squad Assignments Packing of menstrual kits for Ending Period Poverty (EPP) and CHIPP bags. Welcome to Liberia Reception
Friday, November 15th
Saturday, November 16th
Sunday, November 17th
Empower Our Families
Uplift our Local Community Build our Economic Wealth
Service Project One: Three Generations In a Day! Ending Period Poverty (EPP) and CHIPP Distribution, Entrepreneurship Workshop
Enhance Our Environment Service Project Two: A Park in a Day, Gardening and School Facelift
Strengthen Our Sisterhood Worship Service, Free time or City Tour (with museum visit) Soror Squads Monrovia Nights - An Elevated Experience
Monday, November 18th Uplift Our Local Community Strengthen Our Sisterhood Service Project Three: Ending Period Poverty (EPP) Distribution at Gbah Public School Nana’s Lodge Day Trip - Beach Event
Tuesday, November 19th
Build Our Economic Wealth Strengthen Our Sisterhood Wear Pink Spend Green Buy Black Farewell Dinner Party
Wednesday, November 20th Departure
L R E G I O N
0 6
TM TM
Registration Fee is $240
All time is reflected in the local time Greenwich Mean Time Zone (GMT)
Registration Closes on Friday, August 16, 2024
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
A $50 00 handling fee will be assessed for any cancellations
Cancellation requests must be submitted via Cancellation & Refund Form to Soror Terri Barnett Coleman, International Region Tamiouchos.
All cancellation requests should include your contact information and documentation supporting your request.
Cancellation requests must be received by Friday, August 16, 2024. All cancellations will incur a $50 cancellation fee, plus any handling or associated expenses.
No additional requests will be accommodated after Friday, August 16, 2024.
I O N
0 7 DETAILS
What to wear?
What to pack?
What to expect in Liberia?
Please be sure to read the information provided in its entirety as you prepare for an elevated service trip experience.
BEFORE YOU GO
Weather: Liberia in November is very warm and humid. Clothing should be light and summer appropriate.
Attire: Pink and green are always appropriate. Pack paraphernalia for service projects, casual and summer chic outfits for evening outings Don’t forget your swimwear for beach events Sneakers, sandals and flats are appropriate footwear
Power Output: Voltage is 220 watts Most US appliances are 110 watts and will require a voltage regulator
Electrical Outlets: Most outlets are universal and will accommodate most plugs required to charge phones, laptops, tablets, etc.
Currency: Liberia is a dual currency country and both US dollars and Liberian dollars are accepted for most transactions.
Cash: Cash is typically the preferred method of payment. POS and other payment types are used mostly in formal establishments. It is recommended to travel with the cash you will need when in Liberia. While there are ATMs, many charge international transaction fees and may have limited cash to dispense
Transportation Modes: Commercial taxis, private rental cars
International Calling: Most carriers provide international packages Refer to your local telephone carrier for international roaming rates and plans. You can also purchase a local sim and voice/data packages while in Liberia.
Security: Your registration includes “My Watchman”, a social impact solution app providing 24/7 access to critical and social emergency response services in Liberia.
N
0 8
T R A V E L N O T E S
UNITED STATES:
www liberianembassyus org/
BAHAMAS:
Travelers must obtain this visa from a local embassy, consulate or visa center before traveling
BERMUDA:
Travelers must obtain this visa from a local embassy, consulate or visa center before traveling
CANADA:
Travelers must obtain this visa from a local embassy, consulate or visa center before traveling
KOREA:
Travelers must obtain this visa from a local embassy, consulate or visa center before traveling
GERMANY:
VISA
VISA REQUIREMENTS
With the exception of Sorors who hold ECOWAS passports, all other passport holders will require a visa for entry into Liberia. Sorors from Nigeria and Liberia who hold current ECOWAS passports fit in this segment.
Requirements for obtaining a valid visa are different for every country We have provided some guidance, however, the Liberian Consulate in your country of residence should be consulted for definitive guidance.
Embassy of Liberia in the US 5201 16th Street NW Washington, DC 20011
Tel: 202-723-0437/Fax: 202-723-0436
Website: https://www.liberianembassyus.org/page/visa
Please note that you can get a Visa before your travel (OR opt to get a Visa on Arrival)
www liberiaembassygermany de /consulate/visa-documents/
JAPAN:
www liberianembassyjp org/ visa html
SOUTH AFRICA:
liberiaembassypretoria co za /visa-2/
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES:
www liberiaconsulateuae com/ contact-us/
REQUIREMENTS FOR VISA
Applicant's Passport must accompany application and the passport must have at least 6 months left before expiration 1 Two (2) passport size photographs (full face view on white background) 2
Flight itinerary 3.
Self-addressed prepaid USPS/FEDEX/UPS envelope with tracking number for return of passport (see mail restrictions). Mail or drop-off passport and all other documents listed above. Failure to include all items could lead to delays in processing of your visa. 4. A notarized letter from a parent or guardian must accompany the application of any minor applicant. 5.
T I O N A L R E G I O N 0 9
Notes:
NOTES
There is generally a waiting period of ten (10) working days for visa processing
Applicants are advised to apply within two weeks of their travel date Airlines, by regulation, will not allow you to board without a valid visa. If you are a Liberian resident in another country, and have become a citizen of that country, you are required to obtain a valid visa to travel to Liberia.
There is an additional fee for same-day service
A note for Liberian passport holders. While entry into Liberia on an expired passport is permitted, a valid, nonexpired passport will be required for departure. Please consider and make arrangements for passport renewal.
VISA ON ARRIVAL:
You must receive a Visa on Arrival approval document from a Liberian Embassy /Consulate or the Liberian Immigration Service prior to travel to Liberia (unless you are visa exempt)
Please note that our chapter can work with you to get a Visa on Arrival. Please send an inquiry to : Info@rwst-lib@gmail.com Once received, further instructions will be shared regarding the visa on arrival process.
R E G I O N 1 0
Required
AND VACCINES
Yellow Fever: A vaccination against Yellow Fever is required for entry into the country All travelers will be required to present a Yellow Fever card that provides evidence of inoculation.
Recommended:
Coronavirus Vaccine: Vaccination against the coronavirus is not required but recommended.
Malaria Prophylaxis: Malaria is a risk in Liberia. Consult your healthcare provider for the most appropriate malaria preventative based on your travel plans and any medical history.
Diarrhea Medication: Traveler's diarrhea is common in many destinations, including Liberia. Over-the-counter medications for diarrhea (Imodium, Pepto Bismol, etc.) and oral rehydration solutions can be useful
Allergies: November begins the Harmattan season in Liberia, which brings desert dust and may aggravate allergic reactions Over-thecounter allergy medications (Zyrtec, Claritin, etc ,) are recommended
Prescription Medications: If you have any chronic health conditions, make sure you have an ample supply of your prescription medications, along with a copy of your prescriptions.
Personal Medical Kit: Consider carrying a basic medical kit containing items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Mosquito Protection: Along with malaria medication, mosquito repellents (Deet, Skin so soft, etc.) are recommended.
I N I O N A L R E G I O N 1 1
& AIRPORT INFORMATION
Airport Name: Roberts International Airport
Airport Code: ROB
Only a few international carriers fly directly into Liberia:
Brussels Airlines (via USA and Europe )
Royal Air Maroc (via Morocco)
Ethiopian Airways
A few regional carriers connect from USA, Europe, Asia and other African Countries:
Ethiopian Airlines (United via USA and Accra, Ghana); Washington Dulles to Lome connecting via Asky
Kenya Airways (Delta via USA and Accra, Ghana)
PRE-DEPARTURE
Be sure to prepare a boarding checklist that includes these items: Passport/visa
Yellow fever vaccination card
Hotel accommodations information
ARRIVAL
Airport Pick-up or Hotel Shuttle
Protocol Officer available for a fee upon request
VIP Airport Protocol:
Send request to: Info@rwst-lib@gmail.com
Airport Pickup (if not using Hotel Shuttle)
Send request to: Info@rwst-lib@gmail.com
N A T I O N A L R E G I O N 1 2
Host Hotel
Mamba Point Hotel
INFORMATION
UN Drive, Mamba Point, Monrovia, Liberia
Reservations
Reservations@mambapointhotel com
Room Rate
$170/night (single occupancy)
$200/night (double occupancy-2 double beds)
Hotel Airport Shuttle
$100/person-one way
Reservation Code
Alpha Kappa Alpha
I N O N A L R E G I O N 1 3
N O T E S A B O U T M O N R O V I A , L I B E R I A
MONROVIA, LIBERIA
Monrovia is the capital city of Liberia and the nexus of our government, commerce, trade, industry and history. The most populous city, it is home to 1.2 million persons, about 30% of the nation’s population.
Founded in 1822, Monrovia is rich in cultural history and celebrates Liberia’s diverse ethnic beginnings as the first independent republic on the continent of Africa.
Monrovia is also the host city of Eta Beta Omega Chapter, and the locale where most of our service projects are implemented.
I N G E N I O U S I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N 1 4
HISTORICAL SITES
Providence Island
Central Business District
National Museum
Unification Park
BEACH CLUBS
Afro Beach
Tropicana Beach
Silver Beach
Club Montserrado Beach
Grill and Bar
Club Montserrado
Telephone Number
Restaurant Menu
Club MontserradoInstagram
DINING
ATTRACTIONS
Savvy Lounge: +231880987306/+231779892638
Savvy Lounge - Instagram
Barracuda Sushi Bar at Mamba
Point Hotel: +231886220220
The Living Room at Royal Hotel: +231770205050
The Living Room - Instagram
Club Montserrado Beach Grill and Bar: Club Montserrado WhatsApp: Restaurant Menu Club Montserrado - Instagram
D’Calabash Bar and Grill +231777637559
Terra Cotta Bar and Restaurant +231 77 503 9680
ECO-TOURISM
Libassa Eco Lodge (30 km from City Center)
Kokon Lodge (60 km from City Center)
Kpatawee Waterfalls (150 km from City Center)
Nana’s Lodge (180 km from City Center)
I N G E N I O U S I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N 1 5
N D C O N
A C T
O
N U M B E R S A
T
I N F O R M A T I
N
EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
Liberia National Police:
+231770800060
Ambulance Service: + 231775546441
Emergency Call: 911
EMERGENCIES & CONTACTS
NEARBY HOSPITALS & PHARMACY
Snapper Hill Clinic
+231775432584
Snapper Hill Clinic
Ashmun Street, Monrovia, Liberia
Wellness Partners (Open 24Hrs)
+231881544832/+231770544832
Wellness Partners Clinic
Congo Town Back Road, Behind Ministry of Health
Congo Town-Monrovia, Liberia
Jahmale Medical Solutions
+231881603000/+231776603000
A.B. Tolbert Road, ELWA JunctionPaynesville, Liberia
Charif Pharmacy
+231886519999
Google Maps Link
Lucky Pharmacy (Open 24Hrs)
+231775550882
22 Tubman Blvd. Sinkor-Monrovia, Liberia
Google Maps Link
Itter Pharmacy
+23177 566 5544
O N A L R E G I O N 1 6
Soror Marcelle G. Abdallah Chapter Basileus +231 77 046 5162 eboakapres@gmail.com
Soror Caroline Richards Klark 1st Anti-Basileus Service Project Chairman +231 88 651 4298 klarkcaroline@gmail.com
Soror Clarine Simpson Vaughn Pacific Cluster Coordinator +231 88 822 9222 csvaughn217@gmail.com
Soror Cherifa Abdallah Hodegos +231 77 502 2713 (Liberia) +1 443 629 8263 (North America) cherifan.a.abdallah@gmail.com
I N G E N I O U S I N T E R N A T I O N A L R E G I O N CONTACTS
1 7
ETA BETA OMEGA
O
O
I N T E R N A T I
N A L R E G I
N