Noted as the 1st international conference in Pietermaritzburg (PMB), KwaZulu-Natal, the Africa Technology Transfer (T2) Conference brought together delegates from Africa and abroad to discuss important issues regarding road and transport technology and infrastructure.
The conference was held on the Department’s premises in Pietermaritzburg. Event Solutions fully managed and co-ordinated all activities and aspects of the conference. We received able assistance from the planning committee which was comprised of Department staff and Event Solutions management.
The opening ceremony attracted approximately 1000 delegates including the Premier of KZN, provincial and the National minister of Transport in South Africa as well as many esteemed role players in the transport industry.
The official opening and plenary meeting took place inside an A-frame marquee which we arranged to be erected complete with a stage seating 20 people, full draping, covered chairs, carpeting, tea-coffee stations and air-conditioning. Within walking distance were smaller marquees used for meals and a cocktail party on one of the nights. The registration and enquiries desk was located nearby in the reception area of the T2 building. A full exhibition was set up in a hall behind the main marquee which attracted a number of visitors during the conference. Adequate directional signage was used throughout the event.
As per safety regulations, a structural engineer’s certificate was obtained for all the structures and staging erected prior to the commencement of the conference.
Delegates enjoyed the finest cuisines from one of KwaZulu-Natal’s top catering companies. Lunch on each day consisted of a menu unique to one of South Africa’s many cultures, e.g. Indian curry on one day and a traditional braai on another, etc.
The conference and commissions consisted of 350 local and international delegates over 3 days which culminated in a gala dinner at the Golden Horse Casino banquet venue. Malaika entertained the 500 guests who thoroughly enjoyed a relaxing evening after their contributions and ensured a successful conference.
The delegates were all comfortably accommodated in hotels and guest houses in the PMB area and paid for their own accommodation.
The budget for the conference which also included spousal tours and entertainment amounted to approximately R900 000-00.
The event was highlighted a success and Event Solutions has continued to enjoy repeat business from the same client.
