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IFLA Conference

World Library and Information Congress: 73rd IFLA General Conference and Council

"Libraries for the future: Progress, Development and Partnerships"

19-23 August 2007, Durban, South Africa

Social and Cultural Activities

The IFLA/WLIC 2007 Congress in Durban offers many opportunities for social networking. These events which also allow you to experience the spirit and culture of South Africa and Africa are as follows:


DAY DATE TIME EVENT VENUE
Sunday 19 August 09h30 Opening Ceremony ICC
Sunday 19 August 16h30 Opening of Exhibition and Opening Party ICC
Monday 20 August 18h30 Metro Beach Party New Beach
Wednesday 22 August 18h30 Cultural Gala City Hall & Church Walk

There is no additional fee payable to attend the above functions, but delegates are required to book for the events on your registration form before 1 August.

Opening Ceremony

Date: Sunday 19 August Time: 09h30

On Sunday morning, 19 August, the Opening Ceremony will be staged in the new Arena section of the ICC, a brand new venue which was opened in April 2007. Join the South African Mother of Books, Gcina Mhlophe as she takes you on a journey through the Heart Beat, the Dance and the Voice of Africa.

Gcina Mhlophe has been writing and performing on stage and screen for the past 24 years. She has written many children's books as well as adult audience poetry and short stories and plays. The opening ceremony will showcase South Africa through the eyes and the words of this extraordinary writer/storyteller.

The opening entertainment will be woven into the guest speakers and promises to truly allow you to capture the magic of the Heart of this Rainbow Nation.

The Keynote Address will be delivered by Justice Albie Sachs, a Judge on the Bench of the Constitutional Court of South Africa.

Opening of the Exhibition and Opening Party

Date: Sunday 19 August Time: 16h30

On Sunday afternoon, 19 August the Exhibition will be officially opened, after which some light snacks will be available.

Entertainment will kindly be sponsored by the S.A. Department of Arts and Culture to continue the ambience created earlier in the day.

Metro Beach Party

Date: Monday 20 August Time: 18h30

The eThekwini Mayor, Counsellor Obed Mlaba welcomes you to Durban by hosting this event. Durban is the city where the "fun never sets" and so you are treated you to one of the Metro's snazziest concepts.

Dress comfortably to be ready to enjoy the pleasantly cool evening spring air on the Durban Beachfront where you will eat, drink and party!!!

Cultural Gala

Date: Wednesday 22 August Time: 18h30

The Minister of Arts and Culture, Minister Pallo Jordan hosts delegates to an event that will showcase this beautiful country. The event is sponsored by the Department of Arts and Culture and will be staged inside and outside Durban's City Hall.

The theme is "Cultures of Africa" and promises that you will experience Africa - alive with rhythm, vibrant colours and exciting cuisine. Entertainment will include Zulu Dancers, Gumboot Dancers, Indian music and dance as well as local bands.

The buffet selection of food will feature four different types of menus that feature prominently in our country. The evening will enrich you with memories of our beautiful country, which you will retain long after you have left our shores.