Johannesburg, South Africa — With the entry deadline drawing closer, the organisers of the 2nd Southern African Lifting Awards are urging companies, professionals and training institutions across Africa’s lifting and materials-handling sector to secure their place in what is rapidly becoming one of the industry’s most important recognition platforms.
Hosted by Lifting Africa, the awards will take place on 30 October 2026 at the Birchwood Hotel & Conference Centre and will once again bring together key decision-makers, engineering specialists, lifting professionals, manufacturers, mine operators and service providers from across the continent.
As entries continue to gain momentum, organisers say the response reflects a growing industry shift toward accountability, visibility and measurable excellence.
Recognition That Extends Beyond the Awards Evening
According to the organisers, participation in the Southern African Lifting Awards is increasingly being viewed as more than an awards entry — it is becoming a strategic business and industry positioning exercise.
In sectors where safety, compliance, technical capability, and operational performance directly impact project success, formal recognition provides valuable third-party credibility and demonstrates a commitment to industry best practices.
“The awards are not simply about trophies or titles,” says Surita Marx from Lifting Africa. “They are about documenting the projects, innovations, people and safety initiatives that are actively moving the industry forward across Africa.”
Highlighting Africa’s Industrial Capability
The awards programme continues to showcase the depth of expertise within Africa’s lifting sector — from highly specialised engineering projects and innovative lifting solutions to workforce development and safety leadership.
Entries received to date reflect participation from both multinational organisations and smaller independent businesses, reinforcing the important role SMEs continue to play within the regional industrial economy.
The programme also places significant emphasis on recognising individuals working behind the scenes, including trainers, technicians, apprentices, operators and safety professionals whose contributions are critical to industry sustainability.
Industry Support Continues to Grow
The continued support from leading industry stakeholders, including YOKE Industrial Corp, RiConnect, Electra Mining Africa and Lifting Placements, reflects growing confidence in the awards as a long-term platform for industry advancement.
Their involvement highlights a shared commitment to promoting innovation, improving standards and encouraging professional excellence throughout the lifting and rigging sector.
Final Deadline Approaching
Organisers have confirmed that entries officially close on 31 July 2026 at 17:00, with no late submissions to be accepted.
Companies and individuals are encouraged not to leave submissions to the final weeks, as supporting documentation and project information often require internal preparation and approvals.
A Key Networking and Industry Engagement Platform
Beyond the formal awards presentation, the Southern African Lifting Awards continue to establish themselves as a valuable platform for networking and relationship-building within the lifting industry.
The event creates an opportunity for stakeholders from multiple sectors — including mining, construction, engineering, logistics and infrastructure development — to engage on shared challenges, future opportunities and industry growth.
As Africa’s industrial and infrastructure sectors continue expanding, the lifting industry remains central to enabling safe and efficient project execution across the continent.
Event Details
• Date: 30 October 2026
• Venue: Birchwood Hotel & Conference Centre
• Entry Deadline: 31 July 2026 at 17:00
For entry submissions, category information and sponsorship opportunities, visit:
Southern African Lifting Awards
To stay updated with announcements and event information, join the official WhatsApp group:
Southern African Lifting Awards WhatsApp Group
