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1–5 March 2027 | Misty Hills, Gauteng, South Africa
Growing Sustainably, Together
The South African Chapter of the International Geosynthetics Society is proud to host GeoAfrica2027 – the 5th African Regional Conference on Geosynthetics, returning to South Africa following the successful inaugural event in 2009.
Taking place at Misty Hills Hotel, Conference Centre & Spa, Gauteng, GeoAfrica2027 will bring together geosynthetics professionals, researchers, academics, manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, students and industry leaders from across Africa and around the world.
With the theme “Growing Sustainably, Together,” the conference will provide a global platform for meaningful academic and professional knowledge and skills transfer, while showcasing safer, more cost-effective and sustainable solutions for infrastructure and environmental preservation.
From the reinforcement of soils to the containment of waste, GeoAfrica2027 will explore the latest developments, research, applications and best practices in geosynthetics, while creating opportunities for regional and international collaboration.
Visit the official GeoAfrica2027 website
GeoAfrica2027 will combine a high-level technical programme with keynote presentations, interactive panel discussions, workshops, technical tours and networking opportunities.
Delegates can look forward to:
The technical programme will cover a broad range of geosynthetics applications and emerging areas, including:
Explore the technical programme and presenter information
GeoAfrica2027 will welcome leading experts from the international geosynthetics community to share their knowledge and experience.
Garth James
Geosynthetics in South Africa: 40 Years of Lessons Shaping a Sustainable Future
Drawing on four decades of experience, Garth James will explore the development of geosynthetics in South Africa and the lessons that can help shape more sustainable future practice.
Chaido Doulala-Rigby (Yuli)
Sustainable bridge construction with geosynthetics: the proof is in the numbers!
This keynote will explore the potential of reinforced soil structures and geosynthetics to deliver more sustainable infrastructure solutions, supported by real-world applications and case studies.
Fady B. Abdelaal
How long will my geomembrane last? A guide to material selection and service life in mining applications.
Focusing on mining environments, this keynote will explore geomembrane durability, ageing, material selection and the factors influencing long-term performance.
Meet the GeoAfrica2027 keynote speakers
GeoAfrica2027 will offer a multi-day programme combining technical learning, professional development, networking and social opportunities.
The developing programme includes:
View the latest Programme at a Glance
Monday, 1 March 2027 | Misty Hills Hotel
GeoAfrica2027 will begin with the 4th Geosynthetics Conference for Young Professionals (GCYP), creating a dedicated opportunity for the next generation of geosynthetics professionals to meet, learn and build their international networks.
GCYP is open to geosynthetics practitioners under the age of 35, including consultants, contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, installers, academics and representatives of authorities.
Please note: GCYP is a standalone event with separate registration. Registration for GeoAfrica2027 does not automatically include GCYP, and participants can attend GCYP without registering for the main conference.
Student Outreach Programme
GeoAfrica2027 is committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of geosynthetics professionals.
Through its Student Outreach Programme, free conference registrations will be made available to local and regional students through sponsorship from companies and individuals.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to experience the conference, connect with the international geosynthetics community and further their understanding of the industry.
Discover the Student Outreach Programme
GeoAfrica2027 will showcase research, innovation and practical experience from across the geosynthetics community.
Following abstract acceptance, contributors can submit either:
Full Technical Paper – 5–6 pages
or
Extended Abstract – 2–3 pages
This additional flexibility provides contributors with different ways to share their research, projects, innovations and industry experience.
View submission information and guidelines
Are you working on an innovative or prominent geosynthetics project?
The Extended Abstract Case Study Competition provides industry representatives with an opportunity to showcase real-world projects without submitting a full-length technical paper.
Entries take the form of a 2–3 page extended abstract and follow the standard submission and review process.
Final submissions will be featured on the IGS South Africa website, with selected case studies invited to present during GeoAfrica2027 and included in the conference proceedings.
Find out more about presenting at GeoAfrica2027
Registration for GeoAfrica2027 is open, with discounted rates available for IGS Members.
IGS Members receive preferential registration rates for both full conference and day delegate registrations.
Early Bird registration closes 30 October 2026.
Remember to provide your IGS membership number when registering to access the IGS Member rate.
Full delegate registration includes access to the technical programme, exhibition, Welcome Function, conference proceedings, Wi-Fi and scheduled refreshments and lunches.
The Gala Dinner and Technical Tours are available separately.
View registration fees and register for GeoAfrica2027
GeoAfrica2027 isn't only about the technical programme. Delegates will have plenty of opportunities to meet, connect and experience South Africa throughout the week.
Tuesday, 2 March 2027
An opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, make new contacts and officially welcome delegates to GeoAfrica2027.
Wednesday, 3 March 2027 | Carnivore Restaurant
Join fellow delegates for one of the conference's major social occasions.
Friday, 5 March 2027
See geosynthetics in action and gain insight into practical applications and projects.
A selection of leisure tours and an Accompanying Persons Programme will also provide opportunities to experience Gauteng and South Africa beyond the conference.
Explore tours and social events
Misty Hills Hotel, Conference Centre & Spa
Gauteng, South Africa
Located outside Johannesburg, Misty Hills will provide the setting for GeoAfrica2027 and its programme of technical, professional and social activities.
Accommodation can be booked through the conference website.
International delegates are encouraged to check South African entry requirements well in advance.
Visa applications can take up to three months, depending on the relevant embassy or consulate.
Delegates requiring a conference invitation letter for a visa application will receive a system-generated letter once their conference registration payment has been received and cleared.
Eligible travellers may also be able to use South Africa's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.
Information on visas, flights, airport transfers, accommodation and travelling in Gauteng is available through the conference website.
Plan your visit to South Africa
GeoAfrica2027 provides organisations with an opportunity to connect with an international audience of geosynthetics professionals and showcase their products, services, technologies and expertise.
A range of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are available for organisations looking to increase their visibility and engage directly with the African and international geosynthetics community.
Explore sponsorship and exhibition opportunities
1–5 March 2027
Misty Hills, Gauteng, South Africa
Join the African and international geosynthetics community for five days of knowledge sharing, technical insight, collaboration and connection as we explore how we can continue Growing Sustainably, Together.
Event: GeoAfrica2027 – 5th African Regional Conference on Geosynthetics
Theme: Growing Sustainably, Together
Dates: 1–5 March 2027
Location: Misty Hills Hotel, Conference Centre & Spa, Gauteng, South Africa
Hosted by: IGS South Africa
IGS Member Discount: Preferential registration rates are available to IGS members. Have your IGS membership number ready when registering.
Useful Links:
Official Conference Website
Registration & Fees
Programme at a Glance
Presenter Information
Travel & Accommodation
Follow us on LinkedIn and sign up to the GeoAfrica Newsletter for the chance to win a free registration.
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