This year’s iteration of the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) Congress is expected to attract about 1300 participants from almost 100 countries, and it will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from May 24 to 29.

Attendees will include thought-leaders, policymakers, geospatial experts, surveyors and professionals from related fields, such as spatial planning, construction management and valuation, says event co-organiser South African Geomatics Institute (SAGI) president Peter Newmarch.

The theme of the FIG Congress 2026: The Future We Want – The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond, is deliberately aligned strategic priority to the FIG Council Work Plan 2023 to 2026.

“This plan encapsulates in the motto of serving society while benefiting people and the planet, and emphasises sustainable professional practice, responses to global challenges and strong collaboration with the UN and other agencies on land governance, climate resilience and geospatial innovation,” he comments.

What to Expect

The congress promises a “dynamic, in-person gathering” that brings together surveying, geomatics and geospatial professionals to explore how their work can accelerate the SDGs and extend their impact beyond 2030.  

Designed around clear principal learning objectives, the congress will equip participants with deeper insights into integrating policy, technology and people to meet global challenges in sustainable development, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and equitable land administration.

Delegates will engage in dialogue regarding the latest advancements in land governance and geospatial intelligence, including AI, three-dimensional mapping, remote sensing and reference frames.

Practical applications will be highlighted throughout the programme, showcasing how these technologies support resilient settlements, responsible land administration, and the green economy through real-world case studies, best practices and innovative solutions.

The technical programme blends traditional presentation sessions with interactive formats – discussion panels, interview sessions, open discussions and blended sessions – which will foster deeper dialogue around the congress theme.

The four plenary sessions , featuring high-profile keynote speakers, will set the scene and frame thematic priorities.

Complementing these are multiple interactive call-to-action sessions focused on translating innovation and digital technologies into professional practice and tangible outcomes.

“An exhibition area will showcase technologically advanced tools and solutions, enabling hands-on learning and direct engagement with innovations,” says Newmarch.

Main Message

The congress emphasises active participation from all delegates, including authors whose papers are not delivered orally (Posters), to ensure a broad exchange of ideas and inclusive professional discourse.

Through technical sessions, workshops and commission-led discussions, attendees will leave with actionable ideas for implementing sustainable practices in their own contexts, strengthened professional networks and international collaborations, as well as an enhanced capacity to influence policy and drive positive change in their organisations and communities.

The congress will open with Land Reform and Rural Development minister Mzwanele Nyhontso as the guest of honour, while Circle of Global Business Women president and founder Dr Sindiswa Mzamo will deliver the opening keynote address.

“The list of distinguished speakers were selected for their proven expertise, leadership in international development organisations or industry, ability to deliver actionable insights, and alignment with the event’s foci, ensuring a high-impact, diverse and inspiring programme,” concludes Newmarch.