Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
III edition October 2026
.png)
Introducing:
Italy in Town 2026
Pasta making experience
A taste of Italy-
Pasta making experience
A TASTE OF ITALY: PASTA-MAKING EXPERIENCE
In celebration of World Pasta Day (25 October), Italy in Town is bringing a little taste of Italian tradition to Cape Town with a special Pasta-Making Class in collaboration with Italian Deli Online.
Join us on Saturday, 31 October at Makers Landing for a hands-on pasta-making experience where you’ll learn how to make your own pasta from scratch, enjoy good food, meet new people and, of course, embrace the Italian way of doing things — mangia, parla e divertiti!
Choose from one of two sessions:
🍝 12:00 – 15:00
🍝 17:00 – 20:00
And the experience doesn’t end when the pasta is made. For our 17:00 – 20:00 session, guests will have the opportunity to sit down, enjoy their freshly made pasta and stay on at the venue to relax and network with fellow pasta lovers.
Your ticket includes:
✨ A hands-on pasta-making class
🥂 A complimentary drink
🎁 An Italian-inspired goodie bag from Italian Deli Online
🛍️ A R500.00 voucher for Italian Deli Online
🍝 Your very own homemade pasta to enjoy
📍 Makers Landing
The Cruise Terminal, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, an Italian food lover, or simply looking for a fun afternoon or evening with good people and great food — come roll, shape, cook and enjoy pasta the Italian way.
Spaces are very limited, so don’t miss your chance to join us!
Tickets are available online now.
Call for Vendors:
Italy in Town 2026
Italy in Town is back! and this year, we’re taking it to an iconic new level!
📍 New Venue: Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town
📅 Dates: 21–22 November 2026
We are seeking authentic Italian brands and products to be part of a vibrant weekend celebrating the very best of Italy — from traditional cuisine and artisanal goods to fashion, design, and lifestyle.
This is a unique opportunity to showcase genuine Italian excellence, connect with a diverse and engaged audience, and position your brand within one of Cape Town’s most anticipated cultural events.
If your offering reflects true Italian heritage, quality, and craftsmanship, we would love to hear from you.
Join us in bringing Italy to life in Cape Town.
For official updates and all the latest news around
the Italy in Town Festival, be sure to visit our
Italy in Town Facebook and Instagram pages,
by clicking the icons above.
Tickets Sales
Italy in Town 2026
This year, Italy in Town moves to the iconic Castle of Good Hope, transforming one of Cape Town’s most historic landmarks into a vibrant Italian festa for two unforgettable days.Stroll along the cobblestone streets infused with the aromas of fresh espresso and wood-fired pizza. Delight yourselves in live Italian music, and savour the timeless allure of festa Italiana.
Join us on 21 & 22 November 2026 and experience the sights, sounds, flavours and traditions of Italy — right here in the heart of Cape Town.
Saturday, 21 November 2026
10:00 to 22:00
Sunday, 22 November 2026
10:00 to 17:00
European Chambers'6th Annual Golf Day 2026
Recap
The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries is proud to highlight Ice Tropez, our Silver Sponsor for the 6th Annual European Chambers’ Golf Day.
The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries was proud to join fellow European Chambers of Commerce for the 6th Annual European Chambers’ Golf Day, held on 20 October 2026 at Randpark Golf Club in Johannesburg.
The event brought together business leaders and professionals for a memorable day of networking, collaboration and friendly competition, celebrating the strength and connections of the European business community in South Africa.
We extend our thanks to all participating companies, sponsors and partners who contributed to the success of this annual event, strengthening business relationships and fostering collaboration across the European business community.
Concerto di Primavera
Recap
.jpeg)
CONCERTO DI PRIMAVERA
A CELEBRATION OF ITALIAN MUSIC & CULTURE
The Concerto di Primavera was a wonderful evening celebrating Italian music, culture and community, held on 17 October 2026 at the Italian Sporting Club in Johannesburg.
The concert featured the beautiful voice of Silvia Di Falco (Soprano), accompanied by Cristina Gianino (Pianist), who delighted an audience of approximately 350 people with an evening dedicated to the timeless beauty of Italian music.
The event brought the Italian-South African community together in a warm and vibrant atmosphere, celebrating Italy’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring cultural ties between Italy and South Africa.
Our thanks go to the performers, organisers and everyone who attended and contributed to making this such a memorable evening.
Festival Italiano
Organised by the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg
Recap
.jpeg)
On 21 October 2026, the Festival Italiano hosted a memorable evening of music at the Italian Club in Johannesburg, celebrating Italian musical heritage through opera, classic Italian songs and contemporary jazz.
The first part featured Silvia Di Falco, an internationally acclaimed Italian lyric soprano, accompanied by pianist Cristina Gianino. Their recital combined celebrated opera arias from La traviata to Rigoletto with beloved Italian melodies, captivating the audience with elegance and musical virtuosity.
The evening continued with “Women in Jazz – Voci di donne: Francesca Biancoli sings Mina & Ornella”, an Afro-Italian fusion project featuring Francesca Biancoli, Carlo Mombelli, Nick Williams and Jonno Sweetman. Reinterpreting timeless songs by Mina, Ornella Vanoni and Gino Paoli through contemporary South African jazz, the musicians created a unique musical dialogue between Italy and South Africa.
The concert was a wonderful celebration of music, cultural exchange and the enduring connection between the two countries.
On 23 October 2026, the Festival Italiano continued its celebrations at the Italian Club in Johannesburg with an evening dedicated to Italian music and traditions.
The event opened with Paul and Christine Gioia, an acoustic duo from Pretoria, performing a selection of beloved Italian songs.
The highlight of the evening was Terraross, the renowned ensemble from Puglia that has spent over 20 years bringing the rhythms, songs and traditions of Southern Italy to audiences worldwide. From international stages to Africa, their energetic performance transformed the evening into a joyful celebration of Puglian culture, inviting the audience to experience the passion and vibrant spirit of Southern Italy.
On Saturday, 24 October 2026, the Festival Italiano concluded its programme at the Italian Sporting Club in Bedfordview with Cinderella Tarantella, a captivating ballet choreographed by Mario Gaglione, Associate Choreographer of Joburg Ballet, with live music by Terraross.
Inspired by the 17th-century Neapolitan fairy tale Cinderella the Cat, the production brought together ten Joburg Ballet dancers, blending classical and contemporary ballet with the lively rhythms of Southern Italy’s traditional tarantella. Accompanied by live folk music from Terraross, drums and percussion, the performance created a vibrant cultural encounter between Italian folklore and South African artistic talent.
ItalCham's Annual Directory
2026/2027
The wait is over! ItalCham's Annual Directory 2026/2027 is here!
Your ultimate guide to businesses, leaders, and opportunities shaping
Italian–South African trade. Packed with valuable insights, this edition opens doors to new partnerships and growth.
Stay ahead, stay connected, and discover who’s who in our thriving
business community.
%20(2_1%20x%202_65%20cm)%20(21%20x%2026_5%20cm).png)
Noland
New Office in Plettenberg Bay
Brava Nolands!
50 years young and still growing strong
When Nolands, a longstanding member of the Italian Chamber of Commerce, opened a new office in Plettenberg Bay, we felt it deserved a “Cin cin!” After all, 50 years in business and an ever-growing footprint are certainly worth raising a glass to.
Nolands began in Cape Town in 1976. Today, it has grown into an international firm with 16 offices worldwide and a presence across 7 international hubs. Not bad for humble beginnings!
The new Plettenberg Bay office strengthens Nolands’ presence along South Africa’s beautiful Garden Route, bringing its expertise even closer to clients and communities in the region. The office will be headed by Ad Cole, who has led Nolands’ George office for the past 10 years. She will continue to head up the George office while overseeing the new Plettenberg Bay operation.
So, what’s the secret to thriving for 50 years and continuing to grow?
We like to think there’s a little Italian philosophy at play. Just as a great Italian recipe relies on quality ingredients, care and a touch of magic, a successful business needs more than expertise alone. It needs trust, genuine connections and relationships that stand the test of time.
These are qualities that have helped Nolands grow from its Cape Town beginnings to an international presence, while continuing to invest in the people and communities it serves.
The opening in Plettenberg Bay is another exciting chapter in that story – and a reminder that even after 50 years, there’s always room to grow.
From all of us at the Italian Chamber of Commerce, brava, Nolands! Here’s to new beginnings, lasting relationships and the next chapter of success.
Nolands Plettenberg Bay
Longships House, 2 Longships Drive, Plettenberg Bay
(+27) 83 378 1227
enquiries@nolandsplett.co.za
ItalCham
Business Excellence Awards
Call for Nominations 2027
Following the success of the 2026 ItalCham Business Excellence Awards, we are pleased to open the first round of nominations for the 2027 edition.
The Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) continue to honour individuals and enterprises who embody excellence, innovation, and leadership within the Italian-South African business community.
At this stage, we are gathering early nominations and suggestions for professionals or companies you believe should be considered for recognition next year. This is a preliminary step to help us identify outstanding candidates.
As in previous years, all nominations received will be carefully reviewed by a professional and independent panel.
To submit a nomination, please complete the form by clicking the button below.
ECOMONDO 2026
Hosted Buyers Programme
Join the Italian-South African Chamber’s hosted delegation to ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s benchmark event for the green, blue and circular economy, organized by IEG – Italian Exhibition Group. Following the success of our 2023, 2024, and 2025 missions, we are now recruiting 10 South African companies to visit this premier international exhibition.
Here's what ECOMONDO 2025 looked like:
*1,850 exhibitors
*International operators from more than 122 countries
*750 international hosted buyers and delegates
*Over 240 conferences and workshops
Why Join?
ECOMONDO 2026 will showcase a renewed and expanded format with 6 thematic areas and 6 exhibition districts, covering the full spectrum of environmental technologies and green innovation:
Circular and Regenerative Bio-Economy
Environmental Monitoring & Earth Observation
ECOMONDO is the leading platform to meet key players in the green and circular economy and discover the latest sustainable technologies and solutions. The 2026 edition will focus on today’s most urgent environmental challenges, bringing together innovation, business opportunities, and expert insights through a rich exhibition and a high-level conference programme.
Buyers Programme - What’s Included:
Selected companies will receive the following benefits:
• 3-night hotel accommodation (B&B treatment, 4-star hotel) for 1 buyer per company
• Cash reimbursement of maximum € 300,00 as partial coverage of the flight ticket for 1 buyer per company
• Transfers Bologna Airport – Hotel / Hotel – Bologna Airport
• Daily transfer from the hotel to the expo venue, and back
• Free entrance ticket
• Lunch at the exhibition centre
Buyers will have to undertake:
• To schedule at least 10 B2B meetings with Ecomondo exhibitors using the online “My Agenda by IEG” platform. These 30-minute meetings will take place on 05 November 2026. If the quota is not met in advance, additional appointments must be arranged directly at the expo;
• To submit the appointment diary, duly completed and signed by all exhibitors met;
• To complete an online satisfaction survey at the end of the meetings;
• To return to the exhibition on November 7 to explore additional companies of interest.
Apply by 31 August 2026
Limited spots available – applications will close as soon as the delegation reaches full capacity.
Eligibility Criteria
- The company representative who will attend Ecomondo must be a decision maker.
- All companies with a turnover of at least ZAR 20.000.000 or with concrete projects in progress or in the start-up phase can apply. The project must be well explained in the dedicated section of the application form.
For more information:
📧 italy@italcham.co.za
📞 Cell: +27 83 325 7804 | WhatsApp: +27 83 325 7804
ECOMONDO 2026
in Collaboration with Premier Industry Partners
This year ItalCham is proud to collaborate with premier industry partners for ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s leading international benchmark for ecological transition, the circular economy, and green technologies.
To offer an even richer and more strategic networking opportunity, this year we are proud to we are proud to collaborate with the following industry partners:
-
GreenCape: A leading organization driving the growth of the green economy in South Africa, supporting businesses in adopting sustainable solutions and unlocking green investments.
-
Southern African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA): The cornerstone association dedicated to advancing the biogas sector and bio-energy technologies across Southern Africa.
-
Metal Recyclers Association of South Africa (MRA): The national body promoting best practices, resource efficiency, and sustainable innovation within the metal recycling industry.
Why Participate in ECOMONDO 2026?
Joining ECOMONDO puts your business at the forefront of the global sustainability transformation. It is an unmissable platform to:
-
Explore Cutting-Edge Innovation: Gain direct access to groundbreaking developments in waste management, renewable energy, resource recovery, and ecosystem restoration.
-
Expand Your Global Network: Connect with international buyers, industry leaders, investors, and key institutional figures to build high-impact commercial partnerships.
-
Access Industry Expertise: Attend world-class conferences and panel discussions to stay ahead of market trends, environmental policies, and sustainable business models.
Join us and our strategic partners as we lead the charge toward a more sustainable and integrated industrial future.
SIGEP World 2027
Hosted Buyers Programme
Join the Italian-South African Chamber’s hosted delegation to SIGEP WORLD 2027, the leading international event for the Foodservice Community, uniting top professionals from the worlds of Gelato, Pastry & Choco, Coffee, Bakery and
Pizza. This high-energy exhibition offers a unique insight into the industry's future, showcasing ground-breaking innovations, emerging trends and new consumer experiences.
From ingredients and products to equipment, furnishings, packaging and cutting-edge technologies, SIGEP is the ultimate platform for networking and discovering top-tier business opportunities. Every encounter is a gateway to evolve, innovate and drive your business forward!
Here's what SIGEP World 2026 looked like:
-
1,400 exhibiting brands
-
30 halls and 138,000 square meters of exhibition space
-
502 hosted top buyers from 74 countries
-
More than 5,500 meetings
Why Join?
SIGEP World offers direct access to the latest innovations and trends shaping the global out-of-home foodservice industry. The event is a high-value networking opportunity across 5 different sectors:
The 2027 edition will combine business opportunities, expert insights and professional development through direct interaction with companies and specialists across the entire out-of-home sector.
Buyers Programme - What’s Included:
Selected companies will receive the following benefits:
-
4-night hotel accommodation (B&B treatment) for 1 representative per company*
-
Cash reimbursement of maximum € 300,00 as partial coverage of the flight ticket for 1 representative per company
-
Transfers Bologna Airport – Hotel / Hotel – Bologna Airport
-
Daily transfer from the hotel to the expo venue, and back
-
Interpreter (only if the buyer does not speak Italian or English fluently)
-
Free entrance ticket and lunch at the exhibition centre
Applicants will have to undertake:
-
To schedule at least 10 B2B meetings with SIGEP exhibitors using the online “My Agenda by IEG” platform.
-
Complete their buyer profile accurately through the official registration platform.
-
Attend all confirmed meetings and programme activities.
-
Complete the post-event satisfaction survey.
-
Take advantage of the exhibition to explore additional business opportunities beyond scheduled appointments.
Apply by 25 October 2026
Space is limited - the registration period will close early if the delegation reaches its maximum number of participants.
The company representative who will attend SIGEP must be a decision maker.
For more information:
Anna-Maria Adreani
📧 enquiries@italcham.co.za
📞 Cell: +27 82 862 4884
Take Your Brand to Europe
at Zoomark 2027
Recognised as Europe’s leading B2B platform for pet food and pet care, Zoomark 2027 brings together innovation, international buyers and key industry players under one roof.
With over 30,800 visitors and 1,260 exhibitors (2025 edition), Zoomark continues to expand its global reach — offering direct access to the European and international pet market.
Why exhibit?
✔ Access the European & global market
✔ Connect with decision-makers actively sourcing new products and partnerships
✔ Meet top global buyers through tailored matchmaking
Early Bird exhibition rates are available until 30 June 2026.
Discover how to participate and access full details below.
13th EDITION
“CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa”,
We are pleased to invite you to attend the 13th "TEHA CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa" which will take place on November 12-13 at the Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch in Johannesburg.
The mission is to:
-
build an exclusive and influential community of leaders, for growing their enterprises, their countries and their continent
Over the years, the Summit has established itself as the landmark annual event for international and regional public and private stakeholders, aimed at strengthening strategic relationships, fostering in-depth interaction among peers, and promoting business opportunities in South Africa and across the SADC region.
The initiative, by invitation only, brings together more than 200 CEOs, economists, high-level institutional representatives, and business leaders from across Sub-Saharan Africa, Italy and Europe, the USA, and the Middle East, with extensive coverage from leading media outlets such as Bloomberg, CNN, CNBC, eNCA and SABC News.
Please find the Save the Date here with more details about this year's key topics. To discover more about the spirit and impact of the Summit, we invite you to take a look at the highlights from previous editions and explore some of the key moments, discussions, and connections that have shaped past sessions.
A Cocktail Reception will be held on Wednesday, November 11, at the Residence of the Italian Ambassador to South Africa, followed by a Gala Dinner on the evening of Thursday, November 12.
Among the confirmed speakers as of today, we are pleased to mention:
-
Sthembiso Dlamini (Group Chief Executive Officer, GGDA)
-
Valerio De Molli (Managing Partner and CEO, TEHA)
-
Sandile Dube (Managing Director South Africa, Equinix)
-
Michelle Gavin (Senior Fellow for Africa Studies, Council on Foreign Relations)
-
Johannes Gawaxab (Former Governor, Central Bank of Namibia)
-
Roger Jardine (Chairman, Old Mutual)
-
Eric Kalala (Director-General, Entreprise Générale du Cobalt)
-
Anthony Knox (South Africa Country Executive, Bank of America)
-
Wojciech Kulma (CEO, BASF South Africa)
-
Enrico Letta (Dean, IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs; Former Prime Minister, Italy; EU Rapporteur on the Future of the Single Market)
-
Patrick Luabeya (Special Envoy of the President, Democratic Republic of Congo; Chairman, ARECOMS)
-
David Makhura (Chair, Development Bank of Southern Africa)
-
Jacko Maree (Deputy Chairman, Standard Bank)
-
Pietro Mininni (CEO, TEHA Africa)
-
John Mushayavanhu (Governor, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe)
-
Frank Mwiti (CEO, Nairobi Stock Exchange)
-
Nosiphiwo Mzamo (CEO, State Diamond Trader)
-
Nhlanhla Nene (Chairman, TEHA Africa; Former Minister of Finance, Republic of South Africa)
-
Tseke Nkadimeng (Founder and CEO, Eco Africa Energy; CEO, Bouvest)
-
Vuyiswa Ramokgopa (MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Gauteng Province)
-
Gabriel Semelas (President Africa and the Middle East, Airbus)
-
Martin Sion (Global CEO, Alstom)
-
Jurie Strydom (CEO, Old Mutual)
-
Martin Vaujour (President AMECA Region, Alstom)
-
Jennifer Zabasajja (Chief Africa Anchor & Correspondent, Bloomberg TV)
To confirm your participation, kindly complete the registration form using one of the following links, depending on your preferred payment method:
-
Payment by credit card: link
-
Payment by invoice: link
We would be delighted to have you with us on this special occasion. We thank you for considering our invitation and look forward to welcoming you in Johannesburg this November.
“AI Diffusion Pathways: The Frontier is Collaboration
Trust, Talent &Agriculture”
On 3 November 2026, Luiss Guido Carli University in Rome will host AI Diffusion Pathways: The Frontier is Collaboration – Trust, Talent & Agriculture, an international event organised by the AI Hub for Sustainable Development in partnership with key institutional and innovation ecosystem stakeholders, including the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Luiss Guido Carli University and the Cyber 4.0 Competence Center.
The event will explore opportunities to strengthen Africa–G7 collaboration in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on three key pillars: Trust, Talent and Agriculture.
A dedicated B2B matchmaking session will connect Italian and European companies with African AI startups and innovators, creating opportunities to develop strategic partnerships, explore pilot projects, access new markets and discuss investment and technology co-development opportunities.
Italian and European companies interested in participating are invited to submit an expression of interest and indicate their matchmaking preferences by 20 October 2026. A total of 15 slots have been allocated for B2B matchmaking sessions with African innovators.
This initiative offers a valuable opportunity to build cross-border business connections, engage with emerging African technologies and contribute to the responsible adoption of AI through international collaboration.
Comites Elections
Com.It.Es. Elections: What Italian Citizens Abroad Need to Know
Italian citizens residing abroad will be called to vote for the renewal of the Comitati degli Italiani all’Estero (Com.It.Es.), the representative bodies of Italian communities abroad.
Established in 1985, Com.It.Es. are elected directly by Italian citizens residing in the relevant consular district and serve as a point of reference for the Italian community in its relations with Embassies and Consulates.
What do Com.It.Es. do?
Com.It.Es. represent the interests and needs of Italian citizens abroad in their relations with Italian diplomatic and consular authorities and contribute to fostering the integration of Italian communities in their countries of residence.They also promote the preservation of the historical memory of Italian emigration and help highlight the contribution of Italian communities to the societies in which they live and work.
How are Com.It.Es. formed?
A Com.It.Es. may be established in a consular district with more than 3,000 Italian citizens registered with AIRE (Registry of Italians Residing Abroad).Each committee consists of:12 members in communities of up to 100,000 Italian citizens;18 members in communities with more than 100,000 Italian citizens.Members serve a five-year term.
Who can vote?
Italian citizens who have been residing in the relevant consular district for at least six months may vote, provided they have submitted the appropriate application to their Consulate to be included in the electoral register for the Com.It.Es. elections.
How does voting work?
Com.It.Es. elections take place by postal vote.Ballot papers will be sent to the residential address of eligible voters who have submitted the required application. Once received, voters must return their ballot to the relevant Consulate by following the instructions provided in the information sheet included in the electoral package.Italian citizens residing abroad are encouraged to check the relevant Consulate’s official communications for deadlines, registration requirements and further information on the electoral process.
Italian language teachers wanted
WE ARE LOOKING FOR ITALIAN TEACHERS!
Would you like to teach Italian and join our team? The Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria is looking for both qualified and aspiring Italian language teachers for 2027! ❤️🤍💚
📌 WHO CAN APPLY?
✅ Italian native speakers or candidates with excellent Italian language skills.
✅ Candidates with a university degree OR relevant teaching experience.
✅ Applicants residing in South Africa, Lesotho, Madagascar, Namibia or Mauritius.
✅ Applicants with a national ID, permanent residency or a valid visa with a work permit.
💻 TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES
In-person and online teaching.
📩 HOW TO APPLY
Send the following documents to iicpretoria@esteri.it:
📄 Completed application form
📄 CV
📄 Motivation letter
📄 Copy of your ID
🗓️ APPLICATION DEADLINE: 15 NOVEMBER 2026 AT 18:00
🔗 Download the application form via the link in our bio!
❓ QUESTIONS?
Contact us at iicpretoria.corsi@esteri.it
Join Our WhatsApp Channel!
Stay Connected! Join Our New WhatsApp Channel!
We’ve made staying in the loop easier (and faster) than ever!
Join our brand-new Italcham WhatsApp Channel to get instant updates
on upcoming events, exclusive news, and everything happening at ItalCham, all in one place.
Real-time updates and exciting opportunities you won’t want to miss!
Click the link or scan the QR code above to join now and be part of the updates!
job board
.png)
View job vacancies on the SMILE website
via this link - CLICK HERE
If you are currently hiring,
Please take a look at SMILE-vetted candidates HERE
Alla prossima!