Lifting Africa has officially extended the entry deadline for the 2026 Southern African Lifting Awards from 31 July to Friday, 14 August 2026.
The extension gives companies, professionals and organisations operating throughout Africa’s lifting industry an additional two weeks to complete and submit their entries.
The awards recognise outstanding lifting projects, engineering achievements, innovative products and services, safety initiatives, training programmes, environmental responsibility and individual excellence across the industry.
“We have extended the deadline to give companies sufficient time to prepare strong entries supported by the necessary project information, technical details, photographs and supporting documentation,” says Surita Marx, Managing Director of Lifting Africa.
“This is the final opportunity for companies and individuals to showcase the work, innovation and people helping to advance Africa’s lifting industry. We encourage everyone who has started an entry to complete it and those who have not yet entered to act now.”
Official 2026 award categories
Apprentice / Technician of the Year Award
Presented to a high-achieving lifting apprentice or technician. Candidates may be nominated by employers and educational establishments. Nominations will be verified by the Lifting Awards Committee, and shortlisted nominees will be interviewed by an appointed panel.
Environment Award
Recognises an individual, organisation or project that has made a significant contribution to environmental protection, sustainability or conservation. Entries should include evidence of initiatives implemented during the past 12 months or incorporated into the organisation’s daily operations and long-term strategy.
Excellence in Engineering Award
Presented to a lifting team that has overcome unusual lifting challenges through customised engineering solutions. Entries should demonstrate the successful and efficient execution of complex lifts, together with a commitment to safety, environmental compliance and fleet optimisation.
Excellence in People Development Award
Recognises the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of an organisation’s employee training and development programmes.
Industry Leader Award
Recognises an industry leader who consistently demonstrates leadership, initiative and commitment to their organisation’s mission. The recipient should be a positive role model who inspires team engagement and contribution.
Innovation in Service Award
Honours creativity and originality in the development of new servicing approaches, methods or solutions. Entries should demonstrate measurable effectiveness in addressing challenges, improving efficiency, reducing costs or enhancing customer satisfaction.
Innovation Award – Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year
Recognises a company responsible for a new product, service or initiative that has creatively contributed to the design and use of lifting equipment. Judges will consider innovative equipment or technology developed to improve lifting operations.
Lifetime Achievement Award
The highest individual honour bestowed by Lifting Africa, recognising a significant and outstanding contribution to the lifting industry. Potential recipients are nominated from within the industry.
Project of the Year
Honours a company that has successfully coordinated and completed a complex lift. Judges will consider the unique techniques and innovative approaches used, advanced equipment or technology, detailed planning, safety considerations and efficiencies achieved for the client.
Rising Star Award
Recognises notable achievements by an individual who is still early in their career or industry involvement. The award celebrates initiative, proactiveness, enthusiasm and a willingness to take on challenges.
Safety and Training Award
Presented to a company for a new product, service or initiative that has made a significant contribution to the safety and training associated with lifting equipment and its applications.
Final opportunity to enter The Southern African Lifting Awards are open to qualifying projects, products, services, initiatives, companies and professionals from across Africa’s lifting industry.
The 2026 awards ceremony will take place on 30 October 2026 at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg.
Companies that have already started preparing entries are encouraged to use the additional time to finalise their supporting material. Organisations and individuals that have not yet entered should begin the process immediately.
Extended entry deadline: Friday, 14 August 2026
