Preparations for the XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC) to be held at Durban’s ICC from 7-11 September are on track with a new Secretary General heading up the DAFF team and a professional conference organiser appointed to ensure the smooth running of the event.

African Agenda has been appointed to manage the logistical arrangements of the Congress, which is expected to attract around 8 000 delegates.

Trevor Abrahams has replaced Hester Obisi as Secretary General of the WFC team, responsible for liaison with the FAO and the overall co-ordination of the Congress on behalf of the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries.

The FAO is currently finalising the selection of papers, submitted from around the world, which will form the core of the conference programme.

A special ‘early bird’ rate is available for South Africans wanting to attend the XIV WFC. The cost will be R4 150 for the full five days if you register before end May – otherwise it will cost you R5 300. Reduced rates are also available for students.

Info: www.fao.org/forestry/wfc