SAACI and EGF forge groundbreaking partnership for sustainable future in South Africa’s meetings and events sector

An Industry Partnership Agreement was announced at Meetings Africa between the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) and the Event Greening Forum (EGF). This strategic alliance involves several representatives from the meetings and events sector who are keen on fostering long-term business relationships, particularly focusing on the sustainability of the meetings and events industry in the region. By collaborating with SAACI’s Association Community and its extensive membership base, those at the forefront of the meetings and events industry will gain comprehensive insights into their working relationships with the EGF. The goal is to facilitate the exchange of information and promote cross-promotion between the two associations.

Jaques Fouche, the National Chairperson of SAACI, states:

“We are immensely proud to establish this partnership with EGF. It’s crucial for SAACI to engage with EGF in knowledge-sharing, underscoring the significance of this collaboration for the business events sector across Africa. We anticipate a fruitful exchange of vital information on hosting sustainable events throughout the nation, enhancing the bidding process for future events with a clear understanding of their sustainable delivery. This marks the beginning of an ambitious effort to expand the business events and association meetings within South Africa.”

Morwesi Ramonyai, former Chairperson of the EGF, adds:

“Our members and the association community’s active involvement in cultivating a shared understanding of conducting sustainable meetings and events will bolster support for South Africa’s meetings industry and its aim to also contribute to societal progress through meetings. I extend my gratitude to SAACI for their ongoing support and am excited about this new venture between EGF and SAACI.”

This partnership is set to drive strategic collaboration, benefiting both associations through information-sharing, raising awareness via affiliation, and jointly developing educational and training initiatives for the Business Events Industry in Africa.

Glenton De Kock, CEO of SAACI, comments on the agreement:

“The collaboration between SAACI and our association partners aims to open markets and promote association business events in Destination South Africa. Many of our member companies are committed to organising sustainable meetings and events. This initiative aligns with our market outlook and our desire to foster partnerships and teamwork in establishing a robust, sustainable business events industry on our continent with partners who share our vision.”