Press Coverage

Director, Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute

Dr. Alberta Ama Sagoe is a maritime professional with over 15 years of combined experience in coastal and ocean management. Having worked in various related fields over the years, she has a good appreciation of the cross-cutting nature of the opportunities and challenges in the maritime domain, and the need to contribute to integrated approaches for its effective management. She is currently championing various initiatives to enhance safety, security and blue economy development in the Gulf of Guinea Region and Africa at large.

Dr. Sagoe is currently serving as a Director at the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Institute, a non-profit organization in Ghana which is dedicated to providing research, advocacy and consultancy services on maritime safety, security and blue economy development in the Gulf of Guinea – through its reputable programmes such as: the Maritime Security Intervention Audit; the Blue Mentorship Program; and the International Maritime Security Working Group meetings. She is also serving as a Gender consultant on Aquatic Biodiversity and Environmental Management at the African Union – Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR); and a Public Policy consultant for developing a Blue Economy Strategy for Guinea Bissau.

Dr. Sagoe holds a PhD in Integrated Coastal Zone Management, a Masters in Governance and Sustainable Development and a Masters in Marine Spatial Planning.

Export Manager, Otokar

Ali Bogaç Cicioglu is the Export Manager at Otokar overseeing business strategy, market development and capture management. His areas of interest include multi-national projects, coopetition, strategic alliances and joint ventures.

Prior to joining Otokar, Ali Bogac Cicioglu pursued a career in government service working as strategy analyst specialized in military and security issues, followed by sales & marketing roles at several companies focusing on development of large scale projects in land & C4ISR systems.

Ali Bogac Cicioglu received BA in Political Science from Bilkent University, MA International Studies and Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and holds an Executive MBA degree from Koç University Business School.

Chief of Staff of the CNS, National Navy, Côte d’Ivoire

Married, father of 02 children, Commander Daniel EHU GNAMIEN is an officer of the National Navy of Côte d’Ivoire. He is a Navigator and Gunnery Officer, a former child of a troop, and holds a Higher Technician Diploma in Electronics.

He started his military career after training at the Academy of the Armed Forces of Côte d’Ivoire (AFA) before completing the Officer-in-Charge Course at the Naval School of Brest, France. He obtained the War College Diploma in Postgraduate Defence Studies Course (CESD) in Yamoussoukro. He attended courses such as the Observers Course at the Peacekeeping School (EMP Bamako) in April 2010, the Naval Staff Course in Nanjing, China in 2012.

After seven years spent in fusiliers marins commandos group where he held the position of Company Commander, in 2012, he took command of the Flotille Lagunaire, a unit in charge of the surveillance of inland waters.

At the end of his training in China, he will successively occupy the position of Commander of the Abidjan Naval Base, Adiaké Lagoon Base and Head of the Human Resources Office of the Navy in 2020.

On 01 January 2021, he was appointed Chief of Staff of the Chief of Naval Staff of Côte d’Ivoire and Commander of the Navy Support Unit.

IMO Consultant, Gulf of Guinea and CEO, The Heyl Group

Phillip J. Heyl, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard (ret.) is the CEO of The Heyl Group, an independent consulting firm focused on improving maritime security governance to enable economic development. The firm operates in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean. Mr. Heyl is a senior maritime security advisor for the Gulf of Guinea for the UN International Maritime Organization. Specializing in sustainable capacity building at the strategic, operational and tactical levels. He has assisted more than twelve African countries in developing national maritime strategies and implementation plans designed to enable economic development in the maritime domain.

Over the course of his Coast Guard career, he developed regional cooperation initiatives to improve air and maritime security programs in the Caribbean and Africa including a key advisory role for the Yaoundé Code of Conduct for the Gulf of Guinea signed in 2013. He has also guided the standup of eight coast guards in the Western Hemisphere and Africa: Belize, Cabo Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Haiti, Namibia, Sao Tome & Principe, and Sierra Leone.

Mr. Heyl has published numerous articles on maritime security and regularly appears in the media and the policy arena as an expert on air and maritime security issues. He is a cum laude graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, a distinguished graduate of the Naval War College and holds an MPA in International Policy from The George Washington University.

Vice President, Marketing & Business Development, Elbit Systems Land Ltd.

A serial entrepreneur in the security and defence arena who sold his last company to Elbit Systems.

Uri Naor has been working at Elbit systems Land for the past 15 years, leading the marketing and business development activities of the company.

Uri Naor has over 30 years of experience in the defence sector.

Deputy Director, Faculty of Academic Affairs & Research, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre

Dr. Emma Birikorang is the Deputy Director at the Faculty of Academic Affairs and Research of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC). She is currently undertaking research on African Peace and Security Mechanisms and ECOWAS/AU regional peacekeeping frameworks. She facilitates training modules on Security Sector Governance, Protection of Civilians in Armed conflict, Preventing Violent Extremism, Gender Peace and Security, Risk Assessment and Conflict Vulnerability. Emma is Head of the editorial team for the KAIPTC’s Annual Review of Peace Support Operations in Africa. Her current research interests are Gendered dimension of violent extremism and terrorism, democratic reversal in African countries, regional peace and security, maritime insecurity in West Africa and peacekeeping transitions. Emma has a PhD in Politics and International Studies from the School of Oriental and Africa Studies (SOAS), University of London and an MA in International Politics and Security Studies from the University of Bradford.

Head Of Plans & Maritime Policy Department, Italy

Rear Adrmiral (l.h.) Massimiliano Lauretti was born in Frosinone on April 3rd 1970.

Upon completing the high school, he joined the Naval Academy in Livorno where he attended his initial officer training, from 1989 to 1993, graduating in Maritime and Naval Sciences at the University of Pisa.

In 1994 he was appointed as Surface Warfare Officer and sent on board (FFG) ITS ALISEO as weapons officer until 1997.

In 1998 he was employed with the same duty on board (FFG) ITS GRECALE until 2001.

In 2003, after attending the Naval Commanding School in Augusta and the Naval Warfare Advanced School in Venice, was appointed Commanding Officer of the (AWT) ITS TICINO (August 2003 – August 2004).

In 2004 he was assigned on board (DDG) ITS DURAND DE LA PENNE where he attended several staff duties (up to OPSO).

From November 2006 to June 2012, he served at the ITALIAN NAVY GENERAL STAFF, as Head of “Operational Planning and Training” Section.

On July 11th 2012, he was appointed Commanding Officer of the (OPV) ITS CIGALA FULGOSI.

From August 2013 to August 2017 he was assigned at the ITALIAN NAVY GENERAL STAFF, as the Head of Operations Office for Plans, Operations and Maritime Strategies Department.

From 11th September 2017 to 15th October 2018, he was appointed Commanding Officer of the (DDG) ITS FRANCESCO MIMBELLI.

Since 1st November 2018 to date he has been serving as Head of Plans and Operations Department of the Command in Chief of the Fleet (CINCNAV).

Since 10 January 2022, he is Head of Plans & Maritime Policy Department of the Italian Navy General Staff (Rome).

Petram Fortis

Established in 2016, Petram Fortis is Ghana’s leading defence and security partner. Founded by a group of Industry professionals, the business has grown from strength to strength, partnering with some of the world’s most respected companies and developing Ghana’s capabilities and its industry. With competencies including Land Systems, Naval Systems, Aerospace supply and support, Petram Fortis is a mission critical partner to Ghana’s forces and is proud to be pioneering the development of the Ghana defence industry, and to once again be a flagship partner of the annual exhibition and conference.

Counter-IED Report

Counter-IED Report is a leading international subscription-based publication, which covers the latest developments in the fight against the IED threat. We aim to identify technological advances as well as strategies and tactics for countering threat networks, reduce IED manufacture and placement, assist post-conflict humanitarian demining and capacity building efforts worldwide.


For more information please visit:
www.counteriedreport.com

Cyber Security Review

Cyber Security Review is designed to promote dialogue and provide a platform for information exchange and cooperation between stakeholders, industry, academia and security experts worldwide. CSR is uniquely positioned and assists in sharing knowledge, skills and expertise of the international cyber security community, and helps to identify the emerging threats and facilitate the development of coherent policies and robust capabilities.


For more information please visit:
www.cybersecurity-review.com

SHARK AERO

SHARK.AERO is a Czech-Slovak aerospace company that has been for more than 10 years producing 2-seat Shark aircraft designed for high performance missions including ISR as well as ab-initio and recurrent military pilot training at very low cost.

Shark is the fastest aircraft in its category and holds several world speed records for exceeding 300 km/h. Extreme range and endurance, reliability, easy maintenance, and capability to be operated in all climates and from unpaved surfaces is another undisputable strength. At the same time, it offers incomparable cost-efficiency in terms of both acquisition and operating costs using widely accessible AKI91 / 95 RON gasoline or alternatively AVGAS UL91/100LL.

In 2022 Shark proved its reliability when it carried 19-year-old Zara Rutherford and most recently her 17-year-old brother Mack around the world breaking three Guinness World Records and becoming the youngest man and woman in history circumnavigating the globe solo. Together they flew 106,000 km via 43 countries and 5 continents in all climates and temperatures ranging from -35°C to +48°C. Initial part of Mack’s journey also led through Africa, crossing in Egypt, Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritius and leaving from Seychelles towards the Arabian Peninsula.

Amper Group

Amper is a Spanish multinational company, international reference in the technological development of communications, industry and engineering, offering its clients global and univocal solutions within the same value chain.

Amper focuses its national and international growth through its Security, Communications Defense and Energy capacities.

Amper offers solutions for the integral management of public security, critical infrastructure protection and closed group communications. Its capacities cover border protection, comms interception, signal intelligence solutions and anti-drone systems while providing energy solutions.

Amper also offers solutions for aeronautical and maritime communications, and air and maritime traffic management and surveillance. We provide fully integrated turnkey projects based on our own systems and integrating third party systems.

Our mission is to facilitate market transformation by technology with high performance solutions. Grupo Amper has extensive experience in African countries.

Elbit Systems Land

Elbit Systems Land is a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems, a reputable global company which earned its worldwide recognition through its high-quality design and manufacturing, precision engineering and strict conformity to design specifications and contract requirements.

As a defense and weapons systems house Elbit Systems Land is specializing in the design, development, ‎manufacture and integration of guns, mortars, remote-controlled weapon systems, manned and unmanned turrets, tanks and combat vehicles upgrade and modernization, artillery howitzers and mortars, as well as comprehensive, high-performance array of precision ammunition, rocket solutions and combat mobility, survivability and protection systems.

The combat-proven advanced solutions for the modern battlefield, homeland security, and terror threats, offered by Elbit Systems Land, are developed by vertically integrated expert teams, are ‎based on the extensive experience of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and have been qualified by the IDF, U.S. Military (Army, Air ‎Force, and Navy), and NATO member states.

On November 2018, Elbit Systems acquired 100% of IMI Systems, which is now an integral part of Elbit Systems Land Division. Established in 1933, IMI Systems is a leading defense systems house, specializing in the development, manufacture, upgrade and integration of end-to-end defensive solutions for the modern battlefield. IMI’s world class, combat-proven weapon systems are based on the extensive field experience of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), and company’s systems and products have been qualified by the IDF, US military and other NATO members.

COMPANY INTRODUCTION (MAGNUS AIRCRAFT CO.)
Magnus Aircraft Co., Ltd. is an international company based in Hungary that develops, manufactures, and markets innovative composite aircraft. Magnus’ headquarters are located next to the international Pécs-Pogány Airport (LHPP) on nearly 8,000 square metres in Pogány, Hungary. The company’s iconic product, Fusion, which is powered by an internal combustion engine, combines the advantages of flying. Thanks to its high load-bearing capacity, symmetrical aerofoil, reinforced composite structure, fixed landing gear, and reasonable operating cost for only $45 per hour. Fusion is the perfect choice for emergency training, aerobatics, aerial observation, and instrument flight training. Fusion aircraft holds certifications throughout Europe, Africa, the USA, and Australia.

TAIS Website

TAIS was created by three leading Turkish private shipyards (ANADOLU, SEDEF, SEFINE Shipyards) who have supplied most of the needs of the Turkish Navy in the last ten years. Product range covers all the needs of a navy from 15 m Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVPs) to 232 m Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD).

The main naval platforms out of +500 maritime platforms we have built so far are listed below:

In addition to the platforms listed above, TAIS has different business models with different countries covering design & acquisition of main systems, total shipbuilding, etc. TAIS is collaborator of 5 x Fleet Tankers (200+ m, 45.000 ton) for Indian Navy and has partnership with Qatari Navy as well.

Aerospace & Defense Review is a print magazine read by over 32,000 qualified readers in the U.S. that includes Corporate Management executives, senior executives from Design/R&D, Scientists, engineers, system integrators, program managers, procurement division executives, and other senior-level technology decision-makers. Following a peer-to-peer learning pattern, our magazine has been a reference point to industry insiders to learn about the new technology trends and share with the community on how they are leveraging technology to accomplish various programs.

Website- https://www.aerospacedefensereview.com/

STM Savunma Teknolojileri ve Mühendislik A.Ş.

STM was established in 1991 for the provision of project management, system engineering and consultancy services to the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) and the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) in fields requiring high technologies, and to support the national security of Türkiye. In the present day, STM operates in a wide variety of areas, ranging from naval platforms to tactical mini-UAV systems, and from cyber security to satellite technologies. Aside from its role in many national projects being conducted by the Turkish defence sector, STM is also engaged in export and business development activities in more than 20 countries.

The Aviator Africa is one of the leading aviation news website, print and digital magazine and is arguably the most reliable source of aviation news in Africa covering all aspects of Civil, Military and General Aviation. The Aviator Africa is recognized and Partners with International organizations such as AFRAA, Dubai Airshow, Aviation Africa, Air Race Communities, ICAO, and IATA, with whom we share our magazines hence broadening our reach both locally and internationally. Our accredited contributors & writers cut across Africa. We stand apart for our commitment to truth and accuracy in all our aviation media coverage.

More info : https://theaviator.co.ug/

Maritimafrica is the first and only bilingual press group (English / French) dedicated to the maritime domain in Africa. Maritimafrica consists of a website (www.maritimafrica.com/en), a bilingual electronic magazine (English / French), Maritimafrica Mag and YouTube channel, Maritimafrica TV.

Launched in March 2019, Maritimafrica aims to inform people you about the progress of the maritime sector in Africa in terms of technology, legal, institutions or maritime organizations, schools, etc.

It serves as a platform for sharing news and the various actors involved in this field. It is also a melting pot of exchange on the different challenges of the maritime sector in Africa.

More info : https://maritimafrica.com/

MILITARY AFRICA is a leading military, defense technology, and national security platform which reports and examines defense systems, technology development and procurement, and how they interact with the national and regional security in Africa. 

Africa’s defence policymakers and industry elite rely on our exclusive information and analysis to make their decisions on a daily basis.

More info : https://www.military.africa/

One to One Meetings

Meetings with senior officials can we booked in advance. Each meeting will be arranged for a duration of 10 mins and a follow-up meeting can be requested onsite.

Cocktail Reception

The cocktail reception that is scheduled for the evening of the first day is open to all participants and will include fun activities, like a local dance, games, magic show etc.. and will provide an excellent opportunity for networking in a relaxed environment.

International Exhibition

The international exhibition will showcase the latest developments in the defence sector and highlight the latest in military technology across the Army, Navy and Air Force. The exhibition is designed to facilitate relationships between entities attending the event and major international companies.

VIP Welcome Dinner

All event VIP’s and main sponsors will be hosted and welcomed for a pre-event Gala dinner on the 9th of October 2022.

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony that is scheduled for the 10th of October 2022 will see the attendance of 600+ local, regional international officials, that will include Ministers, Chiefs of Defence and Chiefs of Army, Navy & Airforce.

International Conference

As the only international defence conference in Africa demonstrating the latest technologies across land, sea and air sectors of defence, offering a unique platform to establish and strengthen relationships with the regional Armies, Navies and Air Forces. The 2-day Conference will feature case-study presentations, panel discussions and technology demonstrations done by thought leaders, policy makers, international defence experts and military technology futurists, discussing and deliberating future strategies and objectives through and build upon the endeavours of Africa’s Armed Forces to enhance combined capabilities to counter the  continent’s leading  security  challenges and showcase  the  importance  of  integrating strategies and solutions across land, sea and air to solve challenges such as extremism, cross-border  crime  and  maritime  security.