Climate. Biodiversity. Air quality. The planet has a lot to say about the things that each and every one of us depend on.

But can you hear what it’s saying?   

There is more data than ever before on our changing Earth. The problem is that many people can’t get hold of it, and when they can, it’s in a language they don’t understand.  

If we’re going to act on what the planet is saying, we need an organization that can bring together the best Earth observation data, technology and science and translate it into free, trusted information that makes sense to everyone.

That organization is GEO. We are coming together at the Cape Town Ministerial Summit to shape our future and respond to the Earth’s calls for action.

Join us for a conversation like no other.

WHY ATTEND?

Showcase and discover solutions

In the past four years, GEO has advanced the sharing of open knowledge, enhanced coordination, and developed tools and services that respond to specific global policy challenges. Find out more and showcase your own solutions at GEO Week 2023

Unlock action 

Earth observations can provide the information needed to unlock action on the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, and drive sustainable development. It’s time to renew our commitment to GEO and forge new partnerships.

Demonstrate leadership

GEO Week and the Ministerial Summit will provide an opportunity to highlight contributions, commitments and Earth observation solutions on a global stage.

Network

The gathering of Ministers, as well as representatives from private sector, civil society and international organizations, represents a unique opportunity for high level networking and discussion.

WEEK AT A GLANCE

Remarks

• Exhibition runs all week
• Days 1, 2 and 3, as well as the morning of Day 4 are open to all registered attendees. The afternoon of Day 4 and the Ministerial Summit are only open to GEO Delegates and Ministers. Please note that while thematic sessions during the plenary are open to non delegates, any decisions will be made by GEO Members present.
• GEO Week and the Ministerial Summit will be in-person events with some sessions broadcast through a livestream.

Please send any questions on GEO Week and the Ministerial Summit to geoweek@geosec.org

Registration and Visa Letters

For any registration-related queries, including visa invitation letters, please contact geosummit@presconf.co.za

Please note that the South African State Security Agency requires all attendees to register at least one month in advance. The deadline for registrations was therefore 6 October 2023.

Who is invited to the Gala Dinner?

South Africa is pleased to be hosting a Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 8 November, at 18:00. Due to limited seating at the venue, invitations will be issued to official delegations as follows: 2x per Member State, 2x additional invitations per GEO Co-Chair government and 1x per Participating Organization and Associate.

Additional invitations will be issued to Awardees, Plenary Speakers and other representatives. Paper invitations will be issued to delegations and other invitees in person on site..

Invitational Travel support

This year, individuals were able to request invitational travel support to GEO Week 2023 from the GEO Secretariat Trust Fund through an online form. The Secretariat prioritized funding for those who are both contributing to GEO Week 2023 governance processes and who come from lower income countries. The Secretariat also considered the principles underlying equity, diversity, and inclusion to strive for broad representation at GEO Week 2023. Keeping in line with past practice, the Secretariat can only support travel for one delegate from each delegation.

The deadline for applying for invitational travel support has now passed. The GEO Secretariat began notifications to selected individuals on 20 September and the notification process was complete as of 13 October. Because of the volume of requests received, only those selected will be notified.

Official Delegation / Attendee related information

For information on registrations, including official delegation lists and attendees, please contact geosummit@presconf.co.za.

Be aware that South Africa has an obligation to protect data collected from delegates under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa, and GDPR (Europe). However, the conference App was launched in early October and has details of speakers. It will shortly contain information on attendees. Registered attendees have received a link to download the App.

OUTCOME DOCUMENTS

• GEO Post 2025 Strategy Summary
• Cape Town Ministerial Declaration
• Cape Town Youth Declaration
• GEO Post 2025 Strategy Full Document
• GEO 2023 Highlights Report

GEO-19 PLENARY DOCUMENTS

• GEO-19-1.2 (Rev3) Draft Agenda (for decision)
• GEO-19-1.3 Draft Report of GEO-18 (for decision)
• GEO-19-2.1 GEO Post-2025 Strategy (for decision)
• GEO-19-8.2 Foundational Tasks of the GEO Work Programme 2023-2025 (for decision)
• GEO-19-8.3 Review of Nominations to the Programme Board (for decision)
• GEO-19-8.4 Executive Committee Members 2024 (for decision)
• GEO-19-8.6 (Rev1) 2024 GEO Secretariat Budget (for decision)
• GEO-19-Info-1.4 New Members, Participating Organizations and Associates (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-3.1 (Rev1) GEO Ministerial Declaration (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-4.1 Global Ecosystem Atlas (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-5.1 Global Heat Resilience Service (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-6.1 (Rev1) GEO Highlights Report (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-7.1 (Rev1) National Coordination Mechanism (for information)
• GEO-19-Info-8.5 2022 Financial Statements and Audit Report (for information)

Registration is closed

For any registration queries, including visa invitation letters / official delegations / attendees, please contact geosummit@presconf.co.za

Please note that the South African State Security Agency requires all attendees to register at least one month in advance. The deadline for registrations was therefore 6 October 2023.

The event organizers will work with GEO leadership to register official delegations.

A mobile "app" has been released to registered attendees which has more detailed information about GEO Week 2023.

Invitational Travel Request

This year, individuals were able to request invitational travel support to GEO Week 2023 from the GEO Secretariat Trust Fund through an online form.  The Secretariat will prioritize funding for those who are both contributing to GEO Week 2023 governance processes and who come from lower income countries. The Secretariat will also consider the principles underlying equity, diversity, and inclusion to strive for broad representation at GEO Week 2023. Keeping in line with past practice, the Secretariat can only support travel for one delegate from each delegation.

Please note that no Minister-level travel can be supported by the GEO Secretariat.

UPDATE: The deadline for applying for invitational travel support has now passed. The GEO Secretariat began notifications to selected individuals on 20 September and anticipates all notifications to selected individuals will be complete by 6 October.

Because of the volume of requests received, only those selected will be notified.

TOURS AND DAY TRIPS

Make the most of your stay in Cape Town. Traverse your way up Table Mountain, explore our beautiful blue flag beaches and incredible winelands, cook up an African storm or visit our beautiful Jackass Penguin colony. Big Five more your vibe? We can help. Click the button below to view the available tours and make a direct booking.

EATING OUT

Cape Town is renowned as a “Foodie’s Paradise” so if you’re looking to indulge in some great local gastronomy, why not try one of these local restaurants to feed body and soul.

Pigalle

Stylish setting for steaks, seafood & Portuguese cuisine with live jazz, swing and salsa music.

Well known as the perfect venue for a stylish evening out, Pigalle offers guests live entertainment from their dance floor alongside superb dinner courses. Renowned for their fresh seafood and Chalmar steak, the menu comprises of classic dishes with a subtle Portuguese flair. Including a spacious cigar lounge and private dining room their venue is versatile as well as suitable for private functions.

Gold Restaurant

African 14-course menu with live drumming and Mali puppets.

GOLD Restaurant in Cape Town offers an authentic African experience. So much more than just an African restaurant, a night at GOLD is an immersive experience that will take you on a 14-dish taste-safari paired with traditional Mali puppets and entertainment.

Mama Africa

Hearty, traditional food in colourful, rustic setting with eclectic mix of bands and drummers.

Welcome to our African cuisine restaurant, where we bring the diverse and vibrant flavors of Africa to your plate. Our menu features a range of traditional African dishes, using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients prepared by our chefs trained in traditional African cooking techniques. But we are more than just a restaurant. We strive to share the beauty and richness of African culture with our customers, from the music to the decor on the walls. Our warm and welcoming atmosphere invites everyone to experience the community and connection that comes with sharing a meal, while discovering the many tastes of Africa.

Marcos African Place

Lively restaurant serving local regional game and international favourites with daily live music.

Marco, chef and owner of Marco's African Place, is the first black restaurateur in Cape Town. In 1989 he opened his first restaurant in Cape Town.

With a mix of traditional and Mediterranean food and live entertainment, Marco's has become a landmark in Cape Town's culinary landscape.

Cape Town offers a wealth of hotel and accommodation options for visitors to our shores. We have secured block bookings at a selection of excellent hotels within walking distance of the CTICC. These include 3 Star to 5 Star options to cater for all budgets and preferences.

Please note these rates are only valid for the dates of Summit and only when booked through the links provided below. We are unable to assist with any rate changes or amendments on bookings made through third parties or alternative booking engines. Inventory is limited and bookings can not be guaranteed. Please secure your reservation early to avoid disappointment.

WESTIN CAPE TOWN - 5 Star

Memorable experiences await at The Westin Cape Town, a centrally located 5-star hotel. Enjoy exclusive rooms with unique views over the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and the whole of Table Bay.

Distance: Walking distance to CTICC - 50m

Deluxe Room

Single Occupancy: R 4,500

Double Occupancy: R 4,850

Executive Club Room

Single Occupancy: R 6,000

Double Occupancy: R 6,350

Waterfront Executive Club Room

Single Occupancy: R 6,300

Double Occupancy: R 6,650

Accommodation rates include 15% VAT, breakfast served in Restaurant Thirty7, and mandatory Tourism Levy of 1%.

 

SOUTHERN SUN CULLINAN - 4 Star

Southern Sun, The Cullinan is a premier hospitality destination offering grand hotel accommodation in the heart of Cape Town just moments from the Waterfront.

Distance: Walking distance to CTICC - 250m

Standard Room

Single Occupancy: R 3,650

Double Occupancy: R 3,820

Accommodation rates include 15% VAT and breakfast. Rates exclude the mandatory tourism levy. This amount will be payable when you check-in at the hotel and is equivalent to 1% of your booking total.

 

SOUTHERN SUN WATERFRONT - 4 Star

Contemporary Comfort in a Great Location. Located in the heart of Cape Town’s most tourist-friendly precinct, the Southern Sun Waterfront hotel invites guests to experience the best of the city, great comfort, excellent amenities, and a warm welcome.

Distance: Walking distance to CTICC - 450m

Standard Room

Single Occupancy: R 3,355

Double Occupancy: R 3,535

Accommodation rates include 15% VAT and breakfast. Rates exclude the mandatory tourism levy. This amount will be payable when you check-in at the hotel and is equivalent to 1% of your booking total.

 

HOTEL SKY - 3 Star

Say hello to the newest addition to Cape Town’s iconic skyline! Hotel Sky Cape Town is now open at one of the City Bowl’s best addresses, directly opposite the Cape Town International Conference Centre.

Distance: Walking distance to CTICC - 140m

Standard Room

Single Occupancy: R 1,715

Double Occupancy: R 1,920

Accommodation rates include 15% VAT and breakfast. Rates exclude the mandatory tourism levy. This amount will be payable when you check-in at the hotel and is equivalent to 1% of your booking total.

 

The exhibition manual is available here

For any enquiries regarding the exhibition please contact geosummit@presconf.co.za.

Please note that until July 28, organizations which expressed their interest in reserving exhibition space by the May deadline will be given priority for booking exhibition space.

THE CTICC 2

Against the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain, and a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC 2) is the perfect venue for an international conference. Located on the Cape Town Foreshore, the venue is easily accessible and in close proximity to many of the city's top hotels, amenities, restaurants and attractions, including the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

FACILITIES

Aside from world-class conference and exhibition facilities, the CTICC 2 boasts a variety of visitor facilities, including:

• Parking facilities – P5 is the CTICC 2 visitor parking block (Click here for directions and fees – select P5 tab)
• Wi-Fi
• ATM's
• A business centre
• Prayer facilities
• Onsite medical facilities

ACCESSIBILITY

The CTICC 2 building incorporates international norms as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the South African Building Regulations (NBR) Standards. This includes safe and easy building and venue access, lifts and restrooms as well as designated parking bays for the disabled.

GETTING TO THE CTICC 2

The CTICC 2 building incorporates international norms as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the South African Building Regulations (NBR) Standards. This includes safe and easy building and venue access, lifts and restrooms as well as designated parking bays for the disabled.

GETTING TO THE CTICC 2

Address: Corner of Heerengracht & Rua Bartholomeu Dias, Foreshore, Cape Town, 8001

GPS Co-Ordinates

-33.91747°, 18.42908°

Map

Click here for the CTICC 2 location on Google map

ABOUT SOUTH AFRICA

Geography

South Africa is situated on the Southern tip of the African Continent. It shares neighbouring borders with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. South Africa encloses both Swaziland and Lesotho. South Africa has over 2700 km of coastline shared between the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast and the warm Indian Ocean on the east coast.

Airports

South Africa's three major international airports are O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg); Cape Town International Airport; and King Shaka International Airport (Durban).

Weather

South Africa is known for its long sunny days throughout the year. Most of the country experiences rain in summer, however the Cape Town and the Western Cape has predominantly winter rainfall. November is well into summer, so weather should be hot and sunny. Bring a light jersey or jacket in case of a few chilly days or evenings.

People

South Africa is home to a multi-cultural melting pot of 55 million beautiful people of diverse origins, cultures, languages, and religions.

Language

Although English is widely spoken and used for informational signage, South Africa celebrates diversity in language with a total of 11 official languages.

These languages are Afrikaans, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, Siswati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga and English.

We recently gained approval for sign language to be recognised as an official language too, bringing our recognition of diverse languages up to 12 - although this process is still underway.

Money

South African Currency

South Africa uses the Rand (ZAR) as currency. Keep in mind that you can only use the Rand to shop, dine and experience the province, so you'll have to exchange your funds for the local currency - luckily this can be done quickly and easily at the airport. Most shopping malls also have a Bureau de Change that will assist you.

Foreign Exchange

As mentioned, you can only pay in Rands in South Africa. However, it is very easy to swap your foreign currency for rands. Money can be exchanged at the airport, as well as commercial banks and Bureaus de Changes, which are easily found in most shopping centres in Cape Town. You may also find exchange facilities in some hotels.

Banking hours are: 9 am - 3.30 pm (weekdays) and 8.30 am – 11 am (Saturdays) and are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Currency Converter:

See how your currency compares to the ZAR here

Cashless Payments

If you don't have any cash on you, no worries. All major credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most establishments in Cape Town, as well as cashless payment methods like Apple Pay and Samsung Wallet. In fact, these are often preferred to cash so if your bank allows it, rather swipe your card than carry cash. It’s safer too.

Water

You may have heard of the Cape Town water crisis and "Day Zero" - the day that taps in the city could potentially have run dry. The drought is thankfully over, but we still treat our water as a scarce and valuable resource. On your visit you'll probably notice water saving tips and initiatives in hotels and restaurants.

Can I drink the tap water in Cape Town?

Yes, it is also perfectly safe to drink tap water in Cape Town – the water is rated as being of a top global standard.

Bottled spring water is readily available at almost any location you visit.

Electricity

The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. With a few exceptions electricity is available almost everywhere.

Health

South Africa has a well-developed healthcare system. There are both public and private hospitals throughout South Africa. Be sure to top up on medical insurance before leaving home. Well-qualified doctors, dentists, and specialists can be found easily, but it is advisable to make an appointment unless it is an emergency. Standby Medics are available onsite during the Summit.

Do I need to get any vaccinations when travelling to Cape Town?

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Is there malaria?

You don't need to worry about malaria tablets, Cape Town is a malaria-free area.