Following the success of its inaugural event, Lifting Africa is proud to announce the 2nd Southern African Lifting Awards, set to take place on 30 October 2026 at the Birchwood Hotel & Conference Centre, Johannesburg.
Now firmly established on the industry calendar, the Southern African Lifting Awards continue to recognise and celebrate excellence across Africa’s lifting, rigging and materials-handling sectors. The awards honour the individuals, SMEs, teams and companies that are shaping the future of the industry through innovation, safety leadership, skills development and operational excellence.
The 2026 awards evening will once again bring together industry leaders, manufacturers, service providers, engineers, operators and decision-makers for an evening of recognition, networking and celebration. As Africa’s only dedicated lifting industry awards programme, the Southern African Lifting Awards play a vital role in raising standards, sharing best practice and strengthening confidence across the sector.
Business Value of Entering
Entering the Southern African Lifting Awards is more than a celebration of achievement — it is a strategic business opportunity. Award recognition positions organisations and individuals as trusted industry leaders, enhances credibility with clients and stakeholders, and differentiates entrants in an increasingly competitive market.
Finalist and winner status becomes a lasting business asset, supporting marketing and PR campaigns, tender submissions, staff engagement and client confidence long after the awards evening. Importantly, the programme is designed to recognise excellence at all levels — from SMEs and specialist service providers to large corporates and individual professionals.
Call for Entries Now Open
Entries for the 2nd Southern African Lifting Awards are officially open, with submissions closing on 31 July 2026 at 17:00. Individuals, SMEs and companies operating anywhere in Africa are encouraged to enter and showcase their achievements from the past 12 months.
Award categories include:
• Apprentice / Technician of the Year Award
• Environment Award
• Excellence in Engineering Award
• Excellence in People Development Award
• Industry Leader Award
• Innovation in Service Award
• Innovation Award (Manufacturer Product Innovation of the Year)
• Lifetime Achievement Award
• Project of the Year Award
• Rising Star Award
• Safety and Training Award
All entries will be independently judged by a panel of respected industry experts, with submissions assessed on innovation, impact, sustainability and contribution to the African lifting industry, within the context of each category.
Industry Support and Sponsorship
The 2nd Southern African Lifting Awards are proudly supported by industry sponsors Yoke Industrial Corp, RiConnect, and Electra Mining Africa, whose commitment to excellence and industry development aligns strongly with the awards’ mission. Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available.
Event Details
• Date: 30 October 2026
• Venue: Birchwood Hotel & Conference Centre, Johannesburg
• Eligibility: Open to individuals, SMEs and organisations operating within Africa’s lifting, rigging and materials-handling sectors
Full details on categories, entry criteria and judging guidelines are available at www.liftingawards.co.za.
