Newspaper congress to enjoy SA hospitality

For many of these visitors it will be the first time they have visited Africa and host Newspaper Association of South Africa (NASA), aims to ensure their visit will be memorable.

President of NASA Trevor Ncube says that it shows the commitment and pride in our country as public and private sectors come together to showcase SA as he details the list of sponsors: Remgro, Montblanc, Venfin, Sunday Times, Mondi Shanduka Newsprint, and Mondi will be making the social events happen, while the publishing houses Independent Newspapers, Media 24, Caxton, Johncom and Mail & Guardian are making the congress happen.

With partners Government Communication and Information Services (GCIS), the International Marketing Council, the City of Cape Town Mayoral Office, Cape Town Routes Unlimited, Medi Clinic, Agility Fairs & Events and sponsors such Amarula, Prins & Prins, 24.com, and MAN Roland, the intention is to make the the most memorable in the 60-year history of the congress. Additionally, with wine being so much a part of our lives, Distell and Nederburg will be playing a large role.

World Press Golf Challenge

Taking place from Sunday 3 to Wednesday 6 June 2007, the congress social events kick off with the invitation-only Second World Press Golf Challenge on Sunday hosted by Man Roland at Steenberg Golf Estate.

The same evening delegates will enjoy the Castle of Good Hope for the welcoming reception. With cuisine that will introduce the many international delegates to Cape Malay, Xhosa and Dutch specialties and the cheerful chirping of the Cape Minstrels, Starlight Rhythm Band, National Field Band and many more at this event, sponsored by Remgro, Venfin and Montblanc, this should be a night that will bring the history and culture of our country to the fore. Local crafters will present a festival of arts and crafts as guests enjoy our Cape entertainers.

Host Johann Rupert is delighted to have the opportunity to entertain these guests.

“To have the 60th WAN Conference come to Cape Town, the first time on African soil, is truly a privilege. Hosting the welcome reception offers us the opportunity to show the meaning of African hospitality in an informal occasion. The Castle location is perfect for these 1500 delegates to move and mingle.”

The formal opening ceremony on the Monday, sponsored by the Sunday Times, promises to be one of the highlights. With President Mbeki invited to officially open the congress, guests will enjoy a journey into the soul of Africa and its many cultures through the proud tradition of song and dance. Featured divas will be Melanie Scholtz, Vicky Sampson and young soprano Kimmy Skota. There will also be high-powered Jazzart dancers and traditional instruments under the leadership of Tandile Mandela and accompanied by the University of Fort Hare Indigenous Orchestra. The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra will close the show.

Experience diverse cultures

There will also be an evening at Moyo at Spier to experience our diverse cultures under the African sky. To recap and close the event will be an evening at Nederburg Estate. Sponsored by Mondi and Mondi Shanduka Newsprint, the evening will bring all aspects of the congress together as delegates prepare their goodbyes to the music of the Soweto String Quartet and Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels.

Summing up the meaning of this conference to the country, host for the gala dinner, Peter Lynch, has the last word:

“It is vital that big business gets behind congresses of this nature, not only is this good business practice but shows the world that we can work together harmoniously to make South Africa one of the greatest world locations for meetings and events.”

For more information, go to www.capetown2007.co.za.