Afrirock 2025
BACKGROUND
Afrirock 2025 is an international Rock Mechanics Conference set to take place at Sun City, South Africa. As mining has long been a cornerstone of African economies, Rock Engineering design plays a crucial role in advancing mining operations across the continent. The conference will spotlight cutting-edge technologies such as modern geotechnical data collection techniques, 3D visualization software for geotechnical analysis, computer modelling, mechanization, and more. After the formal sessions, technical visits will be organized to provide attendees the opportunity to gain first hand practical knowledge of South African mines.
ABOUT THE VENUE
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Pilanesberg, one of South Africa’s most scenic locations, Sun City is a world unto itself and has earned its reputation as Africa’s Kingdom of Pleasure. You will find whatever you want at Sun City, from sizzling entertainment, world class casinos and restaurants to cater for all tastes, to the more relaxed poolside venue, quiet places, lush gardens, and extensive sporting facilities including two world-class golf courses. These are just some of the elements that make Sun City unique among the world’s entertainment resorts. Finally re-discovered and now part of Sun City, the Lost City and the Valley of Waves, fabled to be the Ruins of a glorious ancient civilisation, celebrate and bring to life the legends of this mystical city. The Lost City is internationally applauded for its wonderfully imaginative theme and exquisite landscaping whilst the fantastic Valley of Waves is one of the world’s most exciting waterparks
OBJECTIVES
The goal of Afrirock 2025 is to provide an international forum for presenting and discussing the latest advancements in rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
The conference should be of value to:
Rock engineering practitioners
DMR Inspectors
Researchers
Academics
Mining engineers
Civil engineers
Equipment Suppliers
Original Equipment Manufacturers
TOPICS
The conference should be of value to:
Fracture and damage of rocks
Numerical modelling
Constitutive models
Geotechnical data
Underground rock mechanics
Tunnellings
Slope Stability
Caving
Ground support
Subsidence
Seismicity
Geotechnical Risk
Mechanisation
Programme
Keynote speakers
Associate Professor Bryan Philip Watson,
The University of the Witwatersrand
40 years in the mining industry: Platinum, gold and coal.
A strong focus on hard rock pillar design and behaviour.
Rock engineering design of shallow and deep-level stopes.
Underground instrumentation and laboratory testing.
AWARDS
CSIR Innovators Award (1994).
2nd best PhD thesis in the world (Rocha runner-up certificate) (2011).
SAIMM silver medal award for an outstanding publication (2011).
SAIMM gold medal award for an outstanding publication (2022).
SANIRE Salamon Award for best rock engineering paper in RSA (2011).
AMMSA (Association of Mine Managers of South Africa) paper award (2022).
ACHIEVEMENTS
19 Journal publications.
20 Conference papers.
20 major research reports.
Charted Engineer
ISRM commission on rock mass strength and deformation
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Graduated ~480 undergrad students.
Graduated 17 MSc students.
Dr Dave Roberts,
Sibanye Stillwater
Dave studied mechanical engineering at the University of Natal before being tempted into the world of rock engineering by Tony Jager and Leszek Wojno. He joined CSIR Miningtek in 1993 as a bursar and completed his MSc in “Testing of Mining Tunnel Support Elements and Systems for Hard Rock Mines”. He was then tempted into the world of modelling by Rob Eve and Ewan Sellers, and sent to Wales for four years to complete a PhD on Finite Element Modelling of Rockbolts and Reinforcing Elements. During this time he worked extensively on the Elfen finite element modelling code.
He was thereafter appointed as a researcher within CSIR Miningtek, and remained there for ten years, ultimately becoming a Principal Researcher and Research Group Leader for Rock Engineering. During that time he worked on many research projects for SIMRAC, Deepmine, Coaltech, Platmine and many private entities, usually providing modelling skills.
He then moved to Anglogold Ashanti as a Technical Assistant where he was involved with modelling for the Technology and Innovation Consortium Projects, including the bore-and-fill mining method. Here he was exposed to FLAC3D and Map3D. Six years later he moved back to the CSIR, this time as Principal Researcher for the Non-explosive Rock Breaking Project, which was run under the auspices of the Mandela Mining Precinct. Dr. Roberts is currently with Sibanye Stillwater as a Unit Manager for Modelling, performing modelling services and training as required, using ITASCA codes and Vantage. He is also involved in the management of research projects.
His main interest is modelling, but he also gets excited at the mention of instrumentation, stress analysis, and innovative rock breaking methods.
Dr John Hadjigeorgiou,
University of Toronto
John Hadjigeorgiou holds the Pierre Lassonde Chair in Mining Engineering at the University of Toronto. Previously, he served as Head of the Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at Université Laval in Quebec City. Dr. Hadjigeorgiou has degrees in Civil Engineering, Geological Sciences and Mining Engineering. A graduate of the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and the Institute of Corporate Directors, he holds the ICD.D designation. Professor Hadjigeorgiou has published more than 125 peer reviewed technical articles, co-authored two books on Ground Support, and has been co-editor of numerous conference proceedings on Deep and High Stress Mining. He is the recipient of multiple engineering awards and is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Dr. Hadjigeorgiou, P.Eng., possesses over 35 years of worldwide applied research and consulting experience in the areas of geotechnical and mining engineering, and currently participates in several Geotechnical Review Boards.
Francois Malan,
Professor and Head of Department, University of Pretoria
Prof Malan started his geotechnical career in 1993 at the Chamber of Mines Research Organisation. This later became the CSIR Division of Mining Technology. His particular interest during this period was the time-dependent behaviour of hard rock and he used this as topic for his PhD thesis. For this work, the International Society of Rock Mechanics (ISRM) awarded him the Rocha medal in 2011 for the best PhD in the world. In 2011 he joined Groundwork Consulting and worked on pillar designs and layout problems in the South African platinum industry. In 2011, he joined the gold mining industry and was appointed as Senior Consultant Rock Engineering of Gold Fields South Africa. These mines were taken over by Sibanye Stillwater in 2013 and he remained with Sibanye Stillwater. In 2018, he joined the University of Pretoria as Associate Professor. In 2021, he was promoted to full Professor and is currently the Head of Department. He currently has an NRF rating of B2 has more than 1750 citations. His key research interest is numerical modelling and pillar and layout design for hard rock tabular mines. During the last 7 years, he built a vibrant research group in rock engineering in the Mining Department, focussing mostly on pillar design and numerical modelling aspects.
Over the years, he has received various awards for his contributions to rock engineering. These include six gold and silver medals from the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and three Salamon awards from the South African National Institute of Rock Engineering for best publications. The ISRM awarded him the Rocha medal in 2011 for the best PhD in the world and in 2017 he presented the ISRM Franklin Lecture at the AfriRock Symposium in Cape Town. He also presented the 29th ISRM online lecture during March 2020. He has now been appointed as ISRM Fellow and was inducted in Saltzburg in October 2023. The position of ISRM Fellow was introduced in 2011 to recognise select individuals who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in rock mechanics and rock engineering and have contributed significantly to the work of the ISRM.
Between 2007-2011, Prof Malan served as ISRM Vice-President for Africa. Prior to this, he was also the President of the South African National Institute of Rock Engineering for the period from 2003 -2005. Prof Malan is a Fellow of the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, a Fellow of the South African National Institute of Rock Engineering and a member of the Society of Mining Professors. He acts as a reviewer for several rock engineering journals and is a member of the Publications Committee of the Journal of the South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and a member of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences.
Brad Simser,
Principal Ground Control Engineer, Glencore Sudbury Operations
Education:
B.Sc. Geotechnical Engineering, Queens, 1988
M.Sc. Mining Engineering (Rock Mechanics), University of the Witwatersrand, 1998.
Chamber of Mines Rock Mechanics Certificate 1994
Since graduating in 1988, most of my career has been in underground hard rock mines as a geotechnical/rock mechanics engineer. All the mines have been relatively deep and seismically active including stints in the South Africa Goldfields (Welkom 1990-95), lead-zinc in Northern New Brunswick (Brunswick Mine 1995-2001), and Glencores’ Sudbury operations since 2003.
2001-2003 was spent at the Noranda Technology centre as a research engineer and inhouse consultant for several Noranda operations and included the running of a dynamic bolt testing rig. The Glencore Sudbury operations include narrow vein longhole/cut and fill mining, sub level open stoping, and a new mine project with ore reserves from 2300 to 2800m below surface. This project has completed a winze (sub shaft) to 2650m and is currently progressing towards full production ramp up.
Frans Basson
Newmont Corporation
I started my career as a Secondary School Science Teacher, which I pursued for 6 years. I then joined Hartebeestfontein Gold Mine late 1995 and was transferred to Target Mine during 1998. Our family moved to Australia at the start of 2006 when I joined AMC Consultants in Perth, and I joined Newmont APAC at the start of December 2007.
Geotechnical engineering requires decision making by combining information from many data sources. The ability to spatially visualise the information from many sources provide another layer of context, which enhance decision making significantly. As visualisation tools that served my needs were not available in the late 1990’s, I taught myself programming and started developing visualisation and analyses tools to enhance my problem-solving abilities. Others found the software useful, and I started making the solutions available on my website www.basrock.net for others to download and use since 2011.
The main software packages are GEM4D and Trajec3D, but smaller software solutions are also available. GEM4D is geotechnical software for three-dimensional visualisation and analysis from various data sources. The software applies existing technologies to geotechnical problems and supports many geotechnical and risk assessments. Trajec3D is a three-dimensional rigid body rock fall analysis program that can simulate the trajectories of volumetric bodies during free fall, bouncing, sliding and rolling.
I have been blessed with exceptional mentors during my geotechnical career, starting with Koos Bosman and Frans Weyers at Hartebeestfontein Gold Mine, Danie Ras at Target Mine, and Mike Sandy at AMC Consultants. As I spent many years at Target Mine, Danie Ras had the largest impact on my life, and I still often find myself quoting him today. My sincere hope is to have a similar positive impact in the life of young engineers that cross my path.
Outside working and programming hours, I love to read about history and the lessons that can be learned about human behaviour. As we are living through an exceptional time in world history, I spent a significant time researching and pondering the developments and the impacts on our future. Geotechnical Engineering equips as well for this task, as we develop effective skills to piece the bigger picture together with less than perfect information.
Submit an Abstract
Abstract submissions are now open!
The AfriRock Organising Committee is inviting you to submit an abstract for presentation at the AfriRock 2025 conference.
Why submit an abstract?
- Strengthen your professional reputation.
- Showcase your organisation’s achievements and accomplishments.
- Offer the industry valuable insights, case studies, and expertise.
- Inform stakeholders, including colleagues and researchers, about your accomplishments and progress.
- Create new opportunities for collaboration to benefit the industry.
Submission process
Abstracts will be subject to peer review, the committee will decide whether to accept or decline the submissions. Relevance to the conference theme, accuracy and uniqueness of ideas, contribution significance, and presentation quality are among the selection factors. Download abstract submission template.
Authors will be notified in writing of the acceptance of their abstract. Once accepted the author can submit a full paper for review. Download paper guidelines.
Please note
- All accepted abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings and presented during technical sessions
- All presenting authors are required to register and pay for conference attendance prior to publication in the conference proceedings.
Key Dates
- Abstract submission deadline - 27 January 2025
- Paper submission deadline - 3 March 2025
- Conference - 21-23 July 2025
- Technical Visits - 24-25 July 2025
Please email abstracts to Gugu Charlie: Conferences and Events Co-ordinator, SAIMM at gugu@saimm.co.za
abstracts received
Download the abstracts received...
Registration Fees
Early bird registration valid until 21 April 2025
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Kindly note, registration closes on 14 July 2025. Please note late registrations will incur a R500 administration fee for registrations received after the closing date.
Workshops
Workshop 1 – Pillar Workshop
Register here
Date: Saturday, 19 July 2025
Time: 08:00-16:00
In Person Attendance: R3 000
Online Attendance: R1 000
Student Attendance: Free (Proof of full-time student status required)
More about the workshop
Workshop 2 – Rocscience Workshop
Register here
Date: Sunday, 20 July 2025
Time: 08:00-12:00
In Person Attendance: R2 000
Online Attendance: R1 000
Student Attendance: Free (Proof of full-time student status required)
Rocscience Workshop combined with Geotech Workshop In Person Attendance: R3 000
More about the workshop
Workshop 3 – Geotech: Stress Measurements, Hydrofracturing and Earthquake Inhibitors
Register here
Date: Sunday, 20 July 2025
Time: 13:00-17:00
In Person Attendance: R3 000
Online Attendance: R1 000
Student Attendance: Free (Proof of full-time student status required)
Geotech Workshop combined with Rocscience Workshop In Person Attendance: R3 000
More about the workshop
Technical Visits
TECHNICAL VISITS
Date: Thursday, 24 July 2025
Visit 1 – Petra Diamonds Cullinan Mine
Cost: R1 200 (Return transport)
Register Here
More about the Visit: Petra Diamonds Cullinan Mine.pdf
Organising Committee
- Kevin Le Bron, MLB Consulting – Conference Chairperson
- William Joughin, SRK Consulting
- Bryan Watson, University of the Witwatersrand
- Dave Roberts, Sibanye Stillwater
- Jannie Maritz, University of Pretoria
- Sifiso Mashile, Anglo American
- Obakeng Rakumakoe, Harmony Gold
- Sandor Petho, Glencore
- Koos Bosman, Open House Management Solutions
- Greig Knox, Epiroc
ACCOMMODATION
SUN CITY ACCOMMODATION
Download the AFRIROCK 2025 Conference - Accommodation Reservation Form
Alternative Accommodation option:
The Royal Marang Hotel
R1980per night, 2 people sharing and breakfast included
Booking code is SAIMM2025
082 204 4396 or 082 252 4389
071 691 7923 or 082 204 4397
info@royalmarang.com014 573 4100 – (Reply within 24hrs)
Leisure Activities
Top Things to do in Sun City
- Valley of Waves: Spend a day at the man-made beach with ocean waves, exciting water slides, and rides.
- Pilanesberg National Park: Embark on a Big Five safari to see the iconic African wildlife.
- Maze of the Lost City: Explore the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Sun City Casino: Try your luck at the casino with a wide selection of slots and table games.
- Golf Courses: Play on two world-class golf courses.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy activities like zip-sliding, archery, and Segway tours.
- Sun Central: Explore two levels of family-friendly entertainment, including arcade games, restaurants, and a cinema.
- South African Hall of Fame: Take a journey through South African history at this interactive exhibition.
- Nightlife: Dance the night away at one of Sun City's nightclubs.
Tourism Attractions Near Sun City
- Valley of Waves – 014 557 3444
- The Gary Player Golf Course and Country Club – 014 557 1245
- Pilanesberg National Park (Big game reserve with more than 7000 animals & accommodation from bush camping to luxury lodges.) -
- The Maze of the Lost City – 014 557 1000
- Lost City Golf Course – 014 557 1245
- Mankwe GAMETRACKERS – 014 552 5020
- Segway Guided Tours - Sun City – 014 557 4052
- Predator World Zoo – 014 552 6900
SUN CITY SAFARI TOURS
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/safari/
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/adventure/
SPORT AND FITNESS
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/sports/
SHOP AROUND
https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/shopping/
Sun Central
- #Sumting - 014 557 1627
- 3rd Base - 014 557 1961
- African Origins - 014 557 1837
- Billabong - 014 557 1960
- Candylicious - 014 557 1922
- Cell Central - 014 557 1876
- Del Sol - 014 557 4506
- Elements - 014 557 1411
- Havaianas - 014 557 1975
- Legends Barbershop - 014 552 1164
- Maphuki Leather - 014 557 1835
- Out of Africa Kids - 014 557 1924
- Sorbet - 014 557 1947
- South African Hall of Fame - 014 557 1978
- Sunglass Store - 014 557 1976
- ValuMed Pharmacy - 014 557 1946
- Zee Bisera Dubai - 083 514 9048
Welcome Centre
- Bidvest Bank Bureau de Change - 014 552 1155
- Hertz Rent-a-Car - 014 557 2912
The Palace
- Browns - The Diamond Store - 014 552 1073
- The Palace Collection - 014 557 3226
- Browns - The Diamond Store - 014 552 1081
Soho
- The Candy Store - 014 557 5110
- J&M Famous Biltong - 014 557 1842
- Lily Tobacconist - 014 557 5100
- Rock Shop -Hard Rock Café - 014 007 0717
- Cabanas Collection - 014 552 1075
Valley of Waves:
- VonZipper - 014 557 5880
- Beach Shop - 014 557 5880
- Finders Keepers - 014 557 1679
- Gary Player Pro Shop - 014 557 1245
- Lost City Pro Shop - 014 557 3722
Visiting South Africa
Sun City, a resort in South Africa's North West province, offers a wide array of activities, from water parks and safaris to casinos and world-class golf, making it a popular destination for various types of travellers.
Here's a more detailed look at what to expect when visiting Sun City:
Best Time to Visit:
- The dry, clear-sky period from May to October is generally considered the best time to visit, especially for safaris.
- Be aware that June and July can bring cold nights.
- The summer months (November to April) can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms.
Getting Around:
- Most attractions at Sun City are within walking distance.
- A free shuttle service is available between hotels and the entertainment centres.
- The Welcome Centre at Sun Central is a one-stop shop for information and booking activities.
Other Tips:
- Consider booking activities and excursions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack for a variety of activities, including swimwear, comfortable clothing, and layers for cooler evenings.
- Enjoy the diverse dining options, from fine dining to family restaurants and themed bars.
Peak seasons
South Africa is generally busiest during the summer months of November - March. Local summer school holidays fall during December and January and at this time local seaside resorts are particularly busy with families and children. Other busy holiday periods are over Easter and during the local June/July school holiday period. For visitors preferring a cooler temperature, fewer tourists and less crowds in general its worth considering visiting in the off-peak months of April/May or September/October You may also be able to take advantage of seasonal discounts at these times.
Seasons & weather
The seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are directly opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is generally mid-October to mid-February, Autumn is February to April, Winter is May to July and Spring falls between August and October.
Summers are generally hot and lightweight clothing is advisable although evenings can be cool. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are a must and remember that sunburn can occur even in overcast weather. In the interior afternoon showers are common during the summer months, while in Cape Town four seasons can be experienced in one day so it is best to be prepared. The winter months are cold, particularly in the interior - warm clothing and raincoats are required.
Time differences
South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year. It is therefore an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.
Passports & visas
Travelling to South Africa is fairly easy and hassle-free. All foreign nationals must be in possession of a valid passport - and in some instances a visa is required. Travellers from Europe, most Commonwealth countries, the USA, Scandinavia and Japan do not need to apply for a visa for vacation purposes. A free entry permit for a period of up to 90-days will be issued on arrival. For visitors wishing to stay longer, an official visa needs to be applied for.
MORE INFORMATION ON VISA REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES
Tax
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 15% VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure and receipts from purchases must be kept and produced.
Currency & banks
The South African currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R. One hundred cents makes up one R1 (one Rand). Currently the Rand is weaker than many European currencies as well as the dollar, making travelling to South Africa affordable by international standards. Visitors will more than likely find eating out and shopping particularly affordable and of an excellent quality. Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Change. Credit cards are widely accepted including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9:00-15:30 and on Saturdays from 8:30 - 11:00.
Post offices
Post Offices are generally open Monday to Friday from 8:30-16:30 and on Saturdays from 8:00 -12:00.
Shopping
Most major shopping centres and malls are open 7 days a week from 09:00 to 17:00. In some cases, Sunday shopping hours are from 09:00 - 14:00 and in some smaller towns shops are closed on a Sunday.
Petrol/Gas stations
Petrol or gas stations are widespread throughout South Africa and many are open 24-hours. However, if you are planning a long distance trip through a remote area, ensure that your tank is full to avoid running low. A petrol attendant will fill your tank for you and will often wash your windscreen. Petrol stations do not accept credit cards and petrol must be paid for in cash or with a local petrol card.
Tipping
As a rule South African restaurants do not include a service charge in the total bill. It is customary to leave a 10% tip for good service, or more for excellent service. At petrol station, petrol attendants will fill your tank for you and will offer to wash your windscreen - a tip of whatever small change you have available is appreciated (R1 or R2). In many areas parking attendants will offer to assist you in parking your car and watching over it while you are away - again, a tip of R2 or so is appreciated.
Driving
A valid driver's permit is required to rent a car in South Africa and all drivers must carry a valid driver's licence at all times of driving. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory and driving while talking on a mobile phone is illegal - a hands free kit must be used. Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and strict fines apply. The permissible limit for alcohol consumption is about one glass of wine for the average woman and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average or large man. Speed limits are 120kmph on the open road, 100kmph on smaller roads and between 60 and 80kmph in towns and residential areas. Road signs will indicate the speed limit. Speeding is strictly enforced with cameras and fines are high. Bear in mind the following language differences in South Africa - South Africans put petrol in their cars, not gasoline. Trunks are referred to as boots, while hoods are called bonnets.
Road safety
South Africa has an excellent infrastructure of good quality roads, however the country is large and travelling distances can be long. If you are planning a self-drive holiday, make sure that you allow yourself ample time to reach destinations and make provisions for stop-overs en-route. One of the biggest causes of road accidents on long-distances is fatigue and loss of concentration.
In general, try to avoid driving in unfamiliar areas after dark and in rural areas be aware of cattle or other animals such as buck wandering into the road. Do not stop in remote areas after dark and always park in well-lit, designated parking areas.
Health & medical care
South Africa has excellent health services and doctors with some of the best training in the world. There are adequate hospitals and medical care facilities throughout the country. However, visitors should ensure that they have sufficient funds or medical insurance to cover the fees of private facilities.
As a rule, the tap water in South Africa is safe to drink as all water has been treated. Hygiene and food preparation are of excellent standards and fresh fruit and vegetables are safe to eat.
Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is at low risk in the winter months. It is only possible to contract malaria by being bitten by an infected mosquito - however, when visiting these areas it is advisable to take the necessary safety and medical precautions. Use mosquito nets and an insect repellent to avoid being bitten. In addition, medication can be taken and should be taken according to the instructions given. Medication should be taken starting two weeks before entering the malaria zone and for four weeks after leaving the area. Consult with your doctor beforehand and note that malaria medication should not be taken during pregnancy.
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa and immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required. However, if you are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone, you must be in possession of a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Infants under the age of one year are exempt.
Personal safety
As in any foreign country, visitors are advised to be aware and alert when travelling to avoid falling prey to petty theft and crime. Most areas and attractions of South Africa can be safely visited. However, use common sense, be discreet with expensive camera equipment and jewellery and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking in deserted areas after dark and when driving, always park in a well-lit and designated parking area. In you have any doubts, speak to your hosts and ask for their advice on potential areas to avoid.
Disabled facilities
This is an area in which South Africa needs to improve on. Generally speaking many accommodation providers have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Most public buildings cater for wheelchair access and most sports stadiums have areas accessible to wheelchairs. National parks usually have at least one wheelchair accessible chalet or room.
Electricity
South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz
Exceptions: Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V)
Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. Adaptors can be purchased but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer.
Language
South Africa has 11 official languages one of them being English. The majority of the population is able to speak and understand English even if it is not their first language. South Africans use a lot of local 'slang' - some of those you are more than likely to come into contact with are listed below:
- Howzit - A traditional South African greeting meaning "How are you?" or "How are things?"
- Boet - "Boet" is the Afrikaans word for "brother" and is often used as a term of affection between male friends.
- Café - the local corner shop selling milk, bread, newspaper and cigarettes etc
- Just now - If a South African tells you they will do something "just now", they mean they'll do it in the near future - not immediately.
- Lekker - An Afrikaans word meaning nice. It is often used in association with food, as in: "That meal was lekker."
- Now now - This is not intended to comfort but means shortly, as in: "I will be there now now."
- Rooibos - A popular South African tea made in the Cape. Rooibos is an Afrikaans word meaning "red bush". When people speak of rooibos they are referring to rooibos tea.
- Braai - the South African equivalent of a barbeque where meat is cooked over an open fire. A popular weekend and social pastime.
- Boerewors/Wors - a type of spicy sausage made from beef or lamb. Generally it is quite thick and is cooked on a braai.
Travel
Getting to South Africa
Johannesburg International Airport is the major international airport in South Africa receiving flights from all five continents. There are also direct international flights to Cape Town International. Flights from the UK and Europe are usually overnight with a flight from London to Johannesburg or Cape Town taking approximately 12-hours. Direct flights between the USA and Johannesburg are approximately 15-hours. South Africa has an excellent network of domestic carriers offering flights to all major city centres throughout South Africa. A flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town is 2-hours.
Travelling around South Africa
South Africa is a vast country and areas of interest are widespread. It is often best to consider combining both flying and driving to make the most of your time. As a rule, public transport is not reliable and it is advisable to hire a car to get around cities and attractions. If you would rather not drive long distances, consider one of the local bus companies such as Intercape or Greyhound - tickets can be booked at Computicket. The Baz Bus is an affordable hop-on-hop-off option for backpackers. Alternatively, join an organised tour to suit your interests and your schedule.
Recommended Shuttle Services
CONTACT DETAILS
Phone: +27 (0)12 346 0899
Voip Phone: +27 (0)87 095 9915
WhatsAPP: +27 82 748 8853
Fax: +27 (0)866 611 707
Email: info@ezshuttle.co.za
Recommended Travel Agent
Lerato Mokoma
Travel Consultant
Tel: 011 622 3840
lerato@dynamictravel.co.za
www.dynamictravel.co.za
Leisure, Series & MICE Groups
Guest from Far East, India, Australia, New Zealand, South America
t: +27 11 780 7854
e: asiapacific@suninternational.com
Guest from Continental Europe
t: +27 11 780 7808
e: ceurope@suninternational.com
Guest from North America, United Kingdom, Middle East, Africa
t: +27 11 780 7857
e: naukmea@suninternational.com
Guest from South Africa
t: +27 11 780 7891
e: grpresv@suninternational.com
CONTACT
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Camielah Jardine,
Head of Conferences and Events
E-mail: camielah@saimm.co.za
Tel:+27 11 530 0237
Web: www.saimm.co.za
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR | PREMIUM SPONSOR |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
| PROMOTIONAL INSERTS | BANNER SPONSOR | WELCOME COCKTAIL SPONSOR | PEN AND NOTEPADS SPONSOR | PROMOTIONAL INSERTS |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| PROMOTIONAL INSERTS | BANNER SPONSOR | BANNER SPONSOR | STUDENT SPONSOR | PROMOTIONAL INSERTS |
 |
 |
 |
||
| STUDENT SPONSOR | PROMOTIONAL INSERTS | PROMOTIONAL INSERTS | ||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR |
 |
 |
 |
||
| VEHICLE EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR | EXHIBITOR |