The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the South African Cemeteries Association (SACA) will convene a three-day Cemeteries Conference, themed "Post Life... What Remains," set to take place from 13th to 15th September 2023. This important dialogue of like-minded experts is taking place at the picturesque Durbanville Memorial Park in Cape Town and will be held in collaboration with AVBOB, and Calgro Memorial Parks.

BACKGROUND

South Africa faces pressing challenges in its current burial practices, driven by an increasing demand for space that is significantly impacting our natural environment. The rising number of deaths due to population growth has brought us to a critical juncture. In response, SALGA, SACA AVBOB, and Calgro Memorial Parks have joined forces to address these crucial issues.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

The "Post Life... What Remains" Cemeteries Conference aims to provide a platform for stimulating discussions, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaborations among attendees. Together, we will delve into the intricate dimensions of the afterlife and its profound influence on the environment and society.

Some of the Speakers expected to deliver research, findings, and innovative ideas are:

Keynote Speaker: Prof Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson of the Public Service commission.

Kgosi Thabo Milton Seatlholo: Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, a passionate advocate for rural community development.

Nada Laurie: Master's in Sociology, specializes in researching place attachment and factors influencing decisions related to body disposal options after death.

Wayne Van As: Area Manager for the Southern African region at FamilySearch International.

Vusi Skosana: Director in the unit of Integrated Environmental Authorisations at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.

Prof. Timothy A Fasheun: Esteemed environmental scientist and consultant.

Dr. Julie Rugg: Reader in Social Policy at the University of York, UK, specializing in housing policy analysis and the history of disposing of the dead.

 PANEL DISCUSSIONS & PRESENTATIONS

Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their research findings, innovative ideas, and practical experiences related to the afterlife and cemetery management issues.

Panel Discussions will include constructive dialogues and exchange diverse perspectives with a panel of experts and fellow attendees. Exploration of the philosophical aspects surrounding post-life and existence, fostering enlightening conversations.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES

Members of the media are invited to cover this significant event, which will feature insightful keynote presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities for one-on-one interviews with experts in the field. The conference promises to shed light on the pressing challenges and innovative solutions surrounding cemeteries, space, and the environment in South Africa.

THE MEDIA IS INVITES AS FOLLOWS

Date: September 13 - 15, 2023

Time: 8:30 AM

Location: Durbanville Memorial Park, Cape Town, South Africa

Expected Participants: 100 to 130 attendees, including distinguished academic researchers, esteemed professionals, and government and industry representatives.

ABOUT SALGA & SACA

SALGA, the South African Local Government Association, is the representative of local government in South Africa. SACA, the South African Cemeteries Association, is dedicated to promoting best practices in cemeteries management. Together, they strive to find sustainable solutions to the challenges of space and the environment in the context of burial practices.

END 

Issued by: South African Local Government Association

For further media enquiries:

Sivuyile Mbambato, Email: smbambato@salga.org.za; Mobile: 073 897 8519  

Tebogo Mosala | Email: tmosala@salga.org.za | Mobile: 084 666 7699