5T5OK The Story

[IK0ZCW]

The idea about the expedition to Mauritania started shortly after we returned from Comoros islands. When we looked for location for year 2017, we decided that we have to choose spot closer to Europe and North America, as result of propagation and a low solar activity. It was clear, that the choice will be somewhere in the upper half of Africa continent. Where to? Most countries we can divide into two categories – dangerous (health risks, political or safety reasons) and others which are relatively safe, but from a view of radio amateurs not so interesting. DX community desires activation of "rare" countries.

After long and passionate discussions compromise solution was selected – Mauritania. Directions to EU and NA are excellent, distance is acceptable. In this country has been two active amateurs – Jean 5T0JL (ON8RA, active CW) and Ahmad 5T2AI (9K2AI, active SSB). We contacted Jean and explained our intention. He promised to arrange permission to operation. He kept his promise. After intensive emails exchange and visit to the ARE (local telecommunication office) we have been granted permission to operate from Mauritania under callsign 5T5OK. Ahmad was acquainted with our plan so nothing hindered to choose suitable QTH.

We wanted to be the closest to the sea, ideally directly on the coast and concurrently near the airport. After searching, we decided for Sabbah hotel – same hotel in which were successful expedition of Polish operators 5T0SP in 2012. Hotel is on the edge of Nouakchott (capital of Mauritania). Unfortunately, it hasn’t got own website, phone number and emails don’t work more or less and the owner doesn’t speak English. We were reliance for personal visits of Jean and his mediated information. Jean knew this hotel (he was member of 5T0SP), he checked the current status, he found of price range and everything seemed to be on the right way.