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Verified Service Provider in Congo (Kinshasa)

Cold Chain Logistics in Congo (Kinshasa) Engineering Excellence & Technical Support

Cold Chain Logistics solutions for Supply Chain & Logistics. High-standard technical execution following OEM protocols and local regulatory frameworks.

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Solar-Powered Refrigeration Hubs

Deployment of solar-powered, modular refrigeration units strategically located in remote areas, enabling consistent temperature maintenance for vaccines and perishables without reliance on unstable grid electricity. These hubs are equipped with remote monitoring systems to track temperature and operational status.

Advanced Temperature-Controlled Transport

Utilization of a fleet of specially equipped refrigerated trucks with real-time GPS tracking and temperature logging capabilities. This ensures that sensitive cargo maintains the required cold chain integrity throughout long and often challenging transit routes, with automated alerts for any deviations.

Blockchain-Enabled Supply Chain Transparency

Implementation of a blockchain platform to provide immutable, end-to-end tracking of cold chain products. This enhances accountability, reduces counterfeit risks, and allows all stakeholders, from producer to end-user, to verify product origin and temperature history, building trust in the logistics network.

What Is Cold Chain Logistics In Congo (Kinshasa)?

Cold chain logistics in Congo (Kinshasa) refers to the temperature-controlled supply chain management system designed to maintain the integrity and efficacy of temperature-sensitive products from their point of origin to their final destination. This involves a series of interconnected, refrigerated and insulated environments and transportation methods, ensuring that products are consistently kept within a specified temperature range to prevent degradation, spoilage, or loss of potency. The effective implementation of cold chain logistics is critical for public health, economic stability, and technological advancement within the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Who Needs Cold Chain Logistics?Typical Use Cases in Congo (Kinshasa)
Pharmaceutical Companies and DistributorsStorage and distribution of vaccines (e.g., polio, measles, COVID-19), insulin, blood products, diagnostic kits, and specialized pharmaceuticals requiring strict temperature control.Ensuring the efficacy and safety of life-saving medications.
Healthcare Institutions (Hospitals, Clinics, Health Centers)Receiving and storing temperature-sensitive medical supplies, ensuring their viability for patient care.Maintaining the cold chain at health facilities for routine immunization programs and emergency medical response.
Food and Beverage IndustryPreservation of perishable food items (e.g., dairy products, meat, poultry, fresh produce, seafood) during transportation and storage to prevent spoilage and ensure food safety.Supplying temperature-sensitive food products to urban centers and remote areas.
Agricultural SectorMaintaining the quality of certain agricultural products that are susceptible to temperature fluctuations, such as specific fruits and vegetables, and for the storage of veterinary medicines and vaccines.Reducing post-harvest losses for high-value perishable crops.
Research and Development LaboratoriesStorage and transport of biological samples, reagents, and specialized chemicals that require precise temperature conditions for scientific integrity.Facilitating scientific research and diagnostic capabilities.
Humanitarian OrganizationsDelivery of critical medical supplies, food aid, and other temperature-sensitive resources to vulnerable populations, often in challenging logistical environments.Supporting emergency relief efforts and long-term development projects.

Key Components of Cold Chain Logistics in Congo (Kinshasa)

  • Refrigerated Storage Facilities: Including cold rooms, walk-in freezers, and climate-controlled warehouses at various points in the supply chain (e.g., ports, distribution centers, healthcare facilities).
  • Temperature-Controlled Transportation: Utilizing refrigerated trucks, vans, aircraft containers, and maritime vessels equipped with refrigeration units and temperature monitoring systems.
  • Packaging Solutions: Employing insulated containers, phase change materials (PCMs), dry ice, and other passive or active cooling methods to maintain temperature during transit, especially for last-mile delivery.
  • Temperature Monitoring and Data Logging: Employing real-time temperature sensors, data loggers, and centralized monitoring platforms to track and record temperature excursions throughout the supply chain.
  • Inventory Management Systems: Implementing robust inventory tracking systems that account for storage conditions and product shelf-life.
  • Personnel Training: Ensuring that all personnel involved in handling temperature-sensitive goods are adequately trained in cold chain protocols and best practices.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to national and international regulations and standards governing the transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive products.

Who Needs Cold Chain Logistics In Congo (Kinshasa)?

Cold chain logistics are essential for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of temperature-sensitive products in Congo (Kinshasa). This involves a network of refrigerated storage, transportation, and monitoring to ensure products remain within a specific temperature range from production to consumption. Without a robust cold chain, valuable goods can spoil, become ineffective, or even pose health risks. The demand for these services spans across several critical sectors, driven by both economic development and public well-being.

Target Customer/DepartmentSpecific NeedsExamples of ProductsImpact of Cold Chain Failure
Pharmaceutical Companies (Local & International)Storage of vaccines, insulin, antibiotics, and other temperature-sensitive medications. Reliable transportation to clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies across the country.Vaccines (e.g., polio, measles, COVID-19), insulin, chemotherapy drugs, blood products, diagnostic kits.Loss of potency, reduced efficacy, potential for adverse reactions, increased healthcare costs, disease outbreaks.
Hospitals and Clinics (Public & Private)Receiving and storing temperature-controlled medicines and biological samples. Ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.Vaccines, blood samples, laboratory reagents, critical medications.Inability to treat patients, misdiagnosis due to degraded samples, spread of infectious diseases, patient harm.
Food Manufacturers and ProcessorsPreserving perishable food items during production, storage, and distribution to prevent spoilage and maintain quality.Dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, processed foods.Foodborne illnesses, economic losses due to spoilage, reduced shelf life, reputational damage.
Supermarkets and RetailersMaintaining the freshness and safety of chilled and frozen goods for consumers. Inventory management of perishable items.Dairy, meats, frozen meals, fresh produce, ice cream.Spoiled inventory, customer dissatisfaction, health risks, financial losses.
Agricultural Cooperatives and ExportersCooling and transporting high-value agricultural produce to maintain quality for domestic and international markets.Exotic fruits, vegetables, coffee beans (some processing stages), flowers.Reduced market value, rejection of shipments, loss of export opportunities, decreased farmer income.
Fisheries and Aquaculture SectorMaintaining the cold chain for fresh and frozen fish and seafood from catch to market to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.Fresh fish, frozen fish fillets, shrimp, other seafood products.Food poisoning, significant economic losses, damage to the reputation of Congolese seafood.Research Institutions and LaboratoriesStoring sensitive biological samples, reagents, and experimental materials for scientific research.DNA samples, cell cultures, diagnostic reagents, specialized chemicals.Compromised research results, wasted resources, delays in scientific progress.
Government Health Agencies (e.g., Ministry of Health)Managing national immunization programs, ensuring the availability of essential medicines, and responding to public health emergencies.Mass vaccination campaigns, essential drug stockpiles, diagnostic supplies for outbreaks.Ineffective public health interventions, inability to control disease spread, compromised national health security.
International Aid Organizations (NGOs, UN Agencies)Distributing life-saving medicines, vaccines, and nutritional supplements to vulnerable populations in remote areas.Emergency medical supplies, therapeutic foods, vaccines for humanitarian crises.Increased mortality and morbidity, failure to provide essential aid, exacerbation of humanitarian crises.

Key Industries Requiring Cold Chain Logistics in Congo (Kinshasa)

  • Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
  • Food and Beverage
  • Agriculture and Fisheries
  • Chemicals and Biotechnology
  • Research and Development

Cold Chain Logistics Process In Congo (Kinshasa)

The cold chain logistics process in Congo (Kinshasa) is a complex undertaking, often fraught with challenges due to infrastructure limitations, varying environmental conditions, and regulatory hurdles. It involves a series of interconnected steps designed to maintain the temperature of perishable goods, such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and certain food products, from their point of origin to their final destination. The workflow begins with an inquiry and culminates in the successful delivery of temperature-sensitive items.

StageDescriptionKey ActivitiesChallenges in Kinshasa
Inquiry & Requirement GatheringInitial contact from a client seeking cold chain logistics services.Understanding the product, temperature requirements, volume, origin, destination, and timeline.Unclear or inconsistent client specifications; lack of standardized product classifications.
Quotation & ProposalProviding a detailed breakdown of costs and services.Calculating transport, storage, handling, and any specialized equipment costs; presenting a service proposal.Estimating fluctuating fuel costs; difficulty in providing fixed quotes due to unpredictable operational expenses.
Booking & Order ConfirmationFormal agreement to proceed with the logistics service.Client acceptance of the quote; booking of necessary resources (vehicles, warehousing space).Limited availability of specialized cold chain transport and storage facilities; reliance on manual booking processes.
Pre-shipment Planning & PreparationOrganizing all aspects before the goods are moved.Selecting appropriate refrigerated transport; ensuring packaging meets temperature requirements; obtaining necessary permits and documentation (customs, health certificates).Lack of readily available and compliant packaging materials; delays in obtaining permits and customs clearance; poor road conditions impacting transit times.
Transportation (Inbound/Outbound)The actual movement of goods.Loading goods into temperature-controlled vehicles (refrigerated trucks, containers); maintaining set temperatures throughout the journey; transit monitoring.Frequent power outages affecting refrigeration units; poor road infrastructure leading to delays and potential temperature excursions; theft and security risks; fuel scarcity.
Warehousing & StorageTemporary storage of goods.Storing goods in temperature-controlled warehouses (cold rooms, refrigerated storage); inventory management; quality control checks.Limited capacity and availability of specialized cold storage facilities; inconsistent power supply for refrigeration; inadequate security measures; high operational costs.
Distribution & Last-Mile DeliveryDelivering goods to the final recipient.Transferring goods from main transport to smaller refrigerated vehicles for local delivery; ensuring timely delivery within the required temperature range.Challenging urban traffic congestion; difficulty in reaching remote or poorly accessible areas; lack of reliable last-mile delivery infrastructure; potential for temperature deviations during multiple handoffs.
Monitoring & ReportingTracking and documenting the entire process.Using temperature loggers and GPS tracking; providing regular updates to the client; documenting any deviations or incidents.Limited availability and maintenance of advanced tracking technology; intermittent internet connectivity for real-time reporting; difficulty in remote monitoring of all transit points.
Post-Delivery & FeedbackConcluding the service and gathering input.Confirming successful delivery; obtaining client feedback; addressing any issues or complaints; final invoicing.Difficulty in obtaining timely and comprehensive feedback; potential for disputes arising from temperature excursions due to unmonitored factors; complex payment processing.

Key Stages of the Cold Chain Logistics Process

  • Inquiry & Requirement Gathering
  • Quotation & Proposal
  • Booking & Order Confirmation
  • Pre-shipment Planning & Preparation
  • Transportation (Inbound/Outbound)
  • Warehousing & Storage
  • Distribution & Last-Mile Delivery
  • Monitoring & Reporting
  • Post-Delivery & Feedback

Cold Chain Logistics Cost In Congo (Kinshasa)

Cold chain logistics in Congo (Kinshasa) is a complex and often expensive undertaking due to a confluence of factors. The country's vast size, underdeveloped infrastructure (particularly roads and reliable electricity), security concerns, and limited availability of specialized equipment all contribute to elevated costs. The pricing is highly variable, depending on the specific commodities being transported, the distance covered, the mode of transport, the temperature requirements, and the level of service provided. Generally, it is significantly more expensive than standard logistics. The local currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF).

Service ComponentEstimated Price Range (CDF per unit/kg/km - illustrative)Notes
Refrigerated Trucking (per km)15,000 - 50,000+ CDFHighly dependent on distance, road quality, fuel prices, and vehicle capacity. 'Per km' pricing is an approximation as daily or trip rates are common.
Frozen Trucking (per km)20,000 - 70,000+ CDFHigher energy consumption and specialized equipment make this more expensive than refrigeration.
Temperature-Controlled Warehousing (per cubic meter per day)5,000 - 20,000+ CDFVaries based on temperature range (refrigerated vs. frozen), facility location, and security.
Cold Chain Packaging (per unit)50,000 - 500,000+ CDFFor smaller shipments/pharmaceuticals, dependent on insulation type, gel packs, and duration of protection.
Air Freight (Refrigerated Cargo - per kg)25,000 - 100,000+ CDFExcludes local handling and transport to/from airports. This is a rough estimate and can fluctuate significantly.
Specialized Reefer Container Transport (if applicable, per TEU/FEU)Negotiated Rate (significantly higher)For larger, intermodal shipments. Pricing is highly custom and requires significant planning.
Monitoring & Tracking Services (per shipment/day)10,000 - 50,000+ CDFCost of data loggers, real-time tracking systems, and associated software/services.

Key Pricing Factors for Cold Chain Logistics in Congo (Kinshasa)

  • Commodity Type & Sensitivity: Perishable goods like pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and fresh produce require stricter temperature control and specialized packaging, driving up costs. High-value, easily spoiled items will command higher prices.
  • Temperature Requirements: Maintaining specific temperature ranges (e.g., refrigerated, frozen) is a primary cost driver. The colder the required temperature, the higher the energy consumption and specialized equipment needs.
  • Distance & Route Complexity: Long-distance transportation across challenging terrain (poor roads, remote areas) increases fuel consumption, transit time, and potential for spoilage, leading to higher charges.
  • Mode of Transport: While air freight offers speed and temperature control, it's the most expensive. Road transport is more common but can be unreliable. Internal waterways might be an option for certain routes but are less common for strict cold chain.
  • Infrastructure & Reliability: Lack of reliable cold storage facilities at origin and destination, and inconsistent electricity supply for refrigeration, necessitate the use of more expensive self-powered reefer units and backup generators.
  • Security & Risk Management: In certain regions, security risks can necessitate additional security personnel and protocols, adding to the overall cost.
  • Equipment & Maintenance: The cost of acquiring, maintaining, and operating refrigerated vehicles (reefers), temperature-monitoring devices, and specialized packaging is a significant factor.
  • Customs & Regulatory Fees: Navigating customs procedures and complying with regulations, especially for imported goods, can incur additional fees and delays.
  • Insurance: The higher risk associated with transporting temperature-sensitive and valuable goods often leads to higher insurance premiums.
  • Volume & Frequency: While not always a linear relationship, larger volumes and more frequent shipments can sometimes lead to economies of scale, but the initial setup and operational costs remain high.
  • Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Provider Fees: The mark-up and operational overhead of 3PL providers specializing in cold chain will be factored into the pricing.

Affordable Cold Chain Logistics Options

Navigating the complexities of cold chain logistics while staying within budget is a significant challenge for many businesses. Fortunately, there are affordable options available, often achieved through strategic planning and the smart utilization of value bundles and cost-saving strategies. This guide explores how businesses can optimize their cold chain operations without breaking the bank, focusing on practical approaches to reduce expenses and enhance efficiency.

Cost-Saving StrategyDescriptionPotential Benefits
Optimize PackagingUtilize high-performance insulation, phase change materials (PCMs), and right-sized containers to maintain temperature with minimal energy input and reduced shipping weight. Explore reusable packaging options.Reduced material costs, lower shipping expenses, decreased risk of temperature excursions.
Route OptimizationEmploy software to plan the most efficient delivery routes, minimizing travel time, fuel consumption, and the number of times refrigeration units need to cycle on and off. Consider drop-off consolidation.Lower fuel costs, reduced vehicle wear and tear, improved delivery timelines.
Negotiate Volume DiscountsFor businesses with consistent and substantial cold chain needs, negotiating tiered pricing or volume discounts with logistics providers can yield significant savings.Lower per-unit cost for transportation and storage.
Leverage Off-Peak ShippingIf product perishability allows, scheduling shipments during off-peak hours or days can sometimes result in lower freight rates.Reduced transportation costs.
Strategic Warehouse PlacementLocate warehousing facilities closer to major transportation hubs or customer bases to reduce last-mile delivery costs and transit times.Lower delivery expenses, faster fulfillment.
Invest in Energy-Efficient RefrigerationWhen procuring or leasing refrigerated vehicles and storage, prioritize models with better energy efficiency ratings. Regular maintenance also ensures optimal performance.Lower electricity/fuel bills, reduced operational expenses.
Collaborative Logistics (Co-loading)Partner with other businesses to share space on refrigerated trucks or in warehouses. This is particularly effective for less-than-full truckload (LTL) shipments.Reduced transportation and storage costs through shared resources.
Real-time Monitoring & AlertingImplement robust temperature monitoring systems that provide real-time data and alerts for any deviations. This allows for immediate intervention, preventing product loss.Minimizes spoilage and associated financial losses, improves product quality.

Key Value Bundles in Cold Chain Logistics

  • {"title":"Integrated Transportation & Storage Solutions","description":"Many logistics providers offer packages that combine refrigerated transportation (trucks, vans, containers) with temperature-controlled warehousing. Bundling these services often results in preferential pricing compared to sourcing them separately. This also streamlines operations, reducing coordination overhead and potential delays."}
  • {"title":"Technology & Analytics Packages","description":"Some providers bundle the use of advanced temperature monitoring devices, real-time tracking software, and data analytics platforms with their logistics services. While there's an upfront cost, these tools can significantly reduce product spoilage, optimize routes, and provide insights for continuous improvement, leading to long-term savings."}
  • {"title":"Specialized Handling & Compliance Services","description":"For highly sensitive or regulated goods (e.g., pharmaceuticals, certain food products), providers might offer bundles that include specialized handling, customs brokerage, and compliance documentation assistance. These packages minimize the risk of costly fines or product rejection due to non-compliance."}
  • {"title":"Shared/Pooled Cold Storage","description":"Instead of individual dedicated cold storage facilities, businesses can opt for shared or pooled warehousing. This model allows multiple companies to share the fixed costs of maintaining a temperature-controlled environment, making it significantly more affordable, especially for smaller volumes."}

Verified Providers In Congo (Kinshasa)

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa), accessing reliable and trustworthy healthcare providers is paramount. Franance Health has established itself as a leading entity, recognized for its stringent credentialing processes and commitment to quality care. This dedication ensures that patients are connected with healthcare professionals who meet the highest standards of expertise and ethical practice. Choosing Franance Health-verified providers means opting for assurance, safety, and superior medical outcomes. Their comprehensive verification system scrutinizes qualifications, licenses, and experience, offering a critical layer of trust in a complex healthcare landscape.

Provider TypeFranance Health Verification StandardBenefits to Patients
General PractitionersVerified medical degree, valid practicing license, minimum 2 years experience, clear background check.Accurate diagnosis, effective primary care, referral to specialists when needed.
Specialist Physicians (e.g., Cardiologists, Pediatricians)Verified specialist qualification, board certification where applicable, valid license, proven track record in their specialty.Expert diagnosis and treatment for complex conditions, advanced medical care.
SurgeonsExtensive surgical training verification, proven surgical experience, low complication rates, valid license.Safe and effective surgical procedures, specialized surgical expertise.
DentistsVerified dental degree, specialization if applicable, valid license, commitment to patient hygiene protocols.Comprehensive oral healthcare, preventive and restorative dental treatments.
Nurses (Registered & Specialized)Verified nursing education, valid license, specialization certifications, continuous professional development.High-quality patient care, administration of treatments, patient education and support.

Why Franance Health Credentials Matter

  • Rigorous qualification verification
  • License and accreditation checks
  • Background and experience assessment
  • Commitment to ethical medical practice
  • Enhanced patient safety and trust
  • Access to leading healthcare professionals

Scope Of Work For Cold Chain Logistics

This document outlines the Scope of Work (SOW) for cold chain logistics services. It details the required technical deliverables and the standard specifications that will be adhered to throughout the engagement. The objective is to ensure the integrity and quality of temperature-sensitive goods from origin to destination.

Technical DeliverableDescriptionStandard Specification / Requirement
Temperature Controlled TransportationProvision of vehicles and equipment capable of maintaining specified temperature ranges throughout transit.Refrigerated trucks/containers with calibrated temperature loggers; minimum R-value insulation standards for trailers; real-time temperature monitoring with alerts.
Cold Storage FacilitiesAvailability and operation of warehousing facilities designed for temperature-sensitive goods.Dedicated temperature-controlled zones (ambient, chilled, frozen); temperature and humidity monitoring systems with data logging; backup power generators; regular pest control and sanitation.
Temperature Monitoring & Data LoggingContinuous tracking and recording of temperature data during storage and transit.Calibrated data loggers (e.g., USB, wireless) capable of recording at specified intervals (e.g., every 15 minutes); data export and analysis capabilities; secure data storage for a defined period.
Inventory Management System (IMS)System for tracking and managing inventory within cold chain operations.Real-time inventory visibility; lot/batch tracking; First-Expired, First-Out (FEFO) or First-In, First-Out (FIFO) management; integration with client's ERP system (if applicable).
Packaging and Handling ProtocolsGuidelines and procedures for proper packaging and handling of temperature-sensitive products.Use of validated thermal packaging solutions (e.g., insulated boxes, gel packs, dry ice); SOPs for loading/unloading to minimize temperature excursions; training on specialized handling techniques.
Risk Assessment and Contingency PlansIdentification of potential risks and development of plans to mitigate them.Proactive identification of temperature excursion risks, equipment failure, traffic delays; established communication protocols and alternative solutions for emergencies.
Reporting and AnalyticsRegular reports on performance, temperature data, and inventory status.Daily/weekly/monthly performance reports including KPIs, temperature logs, inventory levels, incident reports; ad-hoc reports as requested.
Auditable Trail and TraceabilityEnsuring complete visibility and traceability of goods throughout the supply chain.Unique identifier for each shipment; detailed record of all handling points, temperature readings, and personnel involved; blockchain or similar technology integration (optional).
Equipment Calibration and Maintenance LogsDocumentation of calibration and maintenance for all temperature-controlled equipment.Regular calibration schedules for temperature loggers and monitoring devices; preventative maintenance records for refrigeration units.
Staff Training and CompetencyEnsuring all personnel involved in cold chain operations are adequately trained.Documented training programs on cold chain principles, temperature monitoring, handling procedures, and emergency response; competency assessments.

Key Areas Covered in the Cold Chain Logistics Scope of Work

  • Service Description and Objectives
  • Service Levels and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
  • Geographic Coverage
  • Product Specific Requirements
  • Transportation Management
  • Warehousing and Storage
  • Temperature Monitoring and Control
  • Documentation and Reporting
  • Contingency and Risk Management
  • Technology and Systems Integration
  • Personnel and Training
  • Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
  • Termination Clauses

Service Level Agreement For Cold Chain Logistics

This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the agreed-upon service standards for Cold Chain Logistics, specifically focusing on response times and uptime guarantees. It aims to ensure the integrity and timely delivery of temperature-sensitive goods throughout the supply chain.

Service ComponentMetricTargetDefinition/Measurement
Incident Response (Critical)Initial Response Time15 minutesTime from notification to acknowledgement and initial assessment of a critical incident affecting cold chain integrity (e.g., temperature excursion, equipment failure).
Incident Response (Non-Critical)Initial Response Time1 hourTime from notification to acknowledgement and initial assessment of a non-critical incident (e.g., minor temperature deviation within acceptable limits, documentation delay).
Incident Resolution (Critical)Resolution Time4 hoursTime from initial notification to resolution or implementation of a mitigation plan for a critical incident, documented and agreed upon by both parties.
Incident Resolution (Non-Critical)Resolution Time8 business hoursTime from initial notification to resolution or implementation of a mitigation plan for a non-critical incident.
System UptimeAvailability Guarantee99.5%Percentage of time the core cold chain monitoring and management systems are operational and accessible, excluding scheduled maintenance. Calculated monthly.
Temperature MonitoringData Availability99.8%Percentage of time real-time temperature data is successfully recorded and accessible from all monitored locations/assets. Calculated monthly.
Refrigeration Unit Uptime (Vehicle/Warehouse)Equipment Availability99.0%Percentage of time refrigeration units on vehicles or in warehouses are functioning within specified temperature ranges. Calculated monthly.
Notification of DeviationAlert Delivery Time5 minutesTime from detection of a temperature deviation exceeding predefined thresholds to the delivery of an alert to designated personnel.

Key Service Components

  • Scope of Services
  • Response Time Definitions
  • Uptime Guarantee
  • Monitoring and Reporting
  • Service Credits and Penalties
  • Exclusions
  • Dispute Resolution
In-Depth Guidance

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