YOKE Industrial Corp. has been named Platinum Sponsor of the inaugural Lifting Africa Awards, which will be presented on 29 August at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg, South Africa. The agreement also includes next year’s event.
The awards recognise innovation, sustainability and leadership in the lifting industry. They are powered by Lifting Africa, a media platform dedicated to Africa’s lifting and material handling industry. The publication serves to promote industry best practices, safety standards, and innovation throughout the continent by means of publications, events, and training initiatives.
The awards will celebrate outstanding achievement in the lifting industry, recognising excellence across various categories. They aim to highlight the significant contributions of individuals and companies that have set new benchmarks in safety, sustainability, innovation, and technical expertise. Platinum Sponsorship includes extensive branding, exhibition space, two tables at the gala presentation ceremony, and exclusive on-site logo displays.
Steven Hong, president at YOKE, said: “We continue to focus on the development of Africa. We have enjoyed strong support in the mining and manufacturing industries in South Africa and see similar results in Namibia, Egypt, and West Africa. Not only do we see growth in our traditional markets, but further expansion into sectors such as oil and gas, automotive, and construction. Our primary goals as Platinum Sponsor of the inaugural Lifting Africa Awards include increasing brand recognition, expanding our partner network, and demonstrating our long-term commitment to innovation and safety.”
YOKE’s expansive catalogue includes Grade 80 and Grade 100 lifting chain fittings; swivel hoist hooks; shackles; angular contact swivels; wire rope clips; and lifting points. It is a product range that has historically been of particular interest to Africa’s mining industry. YOKE supports this hardware with Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA)-accredited training; and Digital Product Passports (DPP), which are data management tools that record a product’s lifecycle information, including material composition, energy performance, maintenance guidelines, and recycling methods.
Established presence
YOKE already has established partnerships in the region with renowned companies, such as Burncrete, Shutterlock, and Dutch Project Quality (DPQ) Consulting Services. It has recently expanded its team in the area with the notable appointments of Marelize du Toit, sales director; and Shaun Bruwer, technical sales manager. Additional personnel announcements are expected in due course.
Hong added: “DPPs emphasise our leadership in digitalisation of our industry. While many players are still adapting, YOKE has already fully integrated with digital initiatives. Launched in alignment with the EU’s [European Union] Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation [ESPR], our digital strategy enhances product lifecycle transparency and traceability. We are enthusiastic about the digital transformation and proud to be at the forefront of this future trend.
“These awards are not only a celebration of the achievements in the African lifting, rigging, and material handling industry, but also an excellent platform to drive progress, enhance safety, and foster innovation. By committing to a two-year sponsorship, YOKE aims to play a pivotal role in supporting the ongoing development of the sector.”
Lifting Africa Award categories include Apprentice / Technician of the Year; Excellence in Engineering; Excellence in People Development; Environment Award; Industry Leader Award; Innovation in Service Award; Innovation Award; Project of the Year; Rising Star Award; Safety and Training Award; and Services to the Lifting Industry / Lifetime Achievement Award.
