Innovative emergency aid products and solutions from Sub-Saharan Africa will be showcased at AidEx, a global humanitarian aid event scheduled for 19-20 October 2011, in Brussels
AidEx reflects the growing necessity to source local suppliers. 50 suppliers of shelter, food, hygiene kits and other essential products will form part of the Local Supplier Zone, representing countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Zambia. AidEx organisers have not only sourced suppliers but also provided free stands and are paying £1,000 each towards travel and accomodation costs to ensure the companies can take part in the event.
Nicholas Rutherford, event director of AidEx, explains, “Having in place a trusted local supplier and partner is absolutely critical in the midst of a humanitarian crisis, but often half the battle for NGOs and charities is meeting the right contacts and establishing that solid relationship. We want to help facilitate that process and know that AidEx will provide them with the perfect platform to do so.”
Local presence
Amongst some of the local suppliers present at the event include Kariba Textiles Ltd, the only surviving blanket manufacturer in Zambia which already works with the likes of UNICEF, World Vision and The Red Cross.
Sekanyolya Systems offers specialised services in the design, supply, installation and maintenance of integrated security systems, such as gate systems, roller shutters, razor wire, electric fencing, card and finger print access control systems, general construction and CCTV Surveillance. It has become the leading distributor and installer of security and access control systems in Uganda.
Riders for Health will be promoting its range of transport management services for organisations working in health care delivery in challenging conditions at AidEx. Chief Operating Officer, Vinay Nagaraju says: “AidEx is an invaluable opportunity to meet both suppliers and partners, to participate in knowledge sharing and to explore the latest issues in the international community. We intend to meet and explore synergies with organisations who understand the benefit of partnership in working for effective and innovative development.”
Hippo Roller is an award-winning South African invention which consists of a strong drum and handle for rolling up to 90 litres of water along the ground. It carries water more easily than traditional methods, saving substantial time and energy.
South African Doulos Foods, a food development, manufacturing and distribution company creates foodstuffs that are high in nutrition and affordable. Organisations currently using the food include the Red Cross Society of South Africa, Global Fund and CATHCA. These foods are particularly suitable for HIV/Aids sufferers to ensure they receive a meal packed with nutrition.
Focus on the future
The Local Supplier Zone is a long-term initiative and one that will see suppliers from a different part of the world hosted each year. 2011 focuses on Sub Saharan Africa. The 2012 Local Supplier Zone focus will be announced at AidEx.
