Gala pledge dinner to preserve African World Heritage sites

The dinner is hosted by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe and will be attended by the South African ministers of Arts and Culture, Environment, Mining and Tourism and approximately 35 AU heads of state and ministers. Business stakeholders will attend the function, including John Wallington from Coal of Africa and executives from BHP Billiton, Anglo Plats, Anglo Gold, De Beers and various Australian and Canadian mining companies.

Business leaders are invited to engage with the stakeholders to provide business support for the AWHF and its concerted efforts to address the seemingly conflicting interests of conservation and sustainable development in Africa. The aim is to ensure that mining and environment work side by side in Africa, with no delays or encounters, as has been the case in so many instances.

The conference celebrates the 40th anniversary of the founding of UNESCO-WH. Its purpose is to decide how African states will manage mining and extractive resource industries for sustainable development, whilst ensuring that Africa's environment, cultural and tourism attractions are preserved. The outcome of this conference will determine the future of AU mining policies in respect of the environment and World Heritage Sites.

The gala dinner will feature an exclusive auction and an opportunity to pledge support to the cause. As there are limited seats available, please contact Teresa Jenkins on +27 (0)11 480 4922 or email az.oc.snoitacinummocahtil@aseret or email the director of the AWHF, Dr Webber Ndoro at ten.fhwa@NrebbeW.