Ian Hardy - July 22, 2013

Depending on your deposition country, Africa can be among the most challenging destinations for deposition work. The situation varies widely from country to country, and can shift over time; so please contact us for country-specific details. But don’t worry: depositions do happen here and we organize a great many of them every year.

Currency

In many African countries, inflation is high and exchange rates are unpredictable. Although prices in dinars, shillings, rands, kwachas, pulas, etc. may rise from month to month, exchange rates normally keep pace, so what you pay in ‘hard currency’ (e.g. U.S. dollars or euros) remains pretty much the same.

Security Issues

1. We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Africa because of the high level of serious crime.
2. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
3. The rate of HIV/AIDS infection in many parts of Africa is very high. You should exercise appropriate precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to risk of infection.
4. Be a smart traveler. Before heading overseas:

• Organize comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy.
• Register your travel and contact details with the local U.S. consulate, so they can contact you in an emergency.

African Parties to the Hague Evidence Convention

1. South Africa
2. Morocco
3. Seychelles*

For a full list of all members:
http://www.hcch.net
*Non-member states

Tips and Tricks

The easiest countries for depositions in Africa tend to be those with the most advanced economies: South Africa is a big favorite, due to its highly-developed infrastructure and availability of world class English-language services. In the north, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt also boast advanced infrastructures and a friendly attitude towards visitors. When arranging a deposition in Africa, we cannot over-emphasize the importance of paying close attention to the security situation, which can change rapidly in many countries. If you research the security situation and plan carefully ahead, there’s really no need to fear: Africa is a wonderful destination, with all the resources you need to conduct your deposition successfully.
Useful Links:
Comprehensive Regional Guide for Africa:
http://optimajuris.com/africa/
U.S. Consulate:
http://www.usembassy.gov/