On dangerous ground

The symbolic importance of the first IBA conference to be held in Africa cannot be overstated - this is also the largest ever gathering of African lawyers.

But there is also a downside to holding the conference in Durban - the fear of being violently mugged in what is sadly a dangerous city.

So safety conscience are the organisers that a fleet of coaches has been laid on to transport delegates to the conference centre, even from hotels just a few hundred metres away.

They have also issued routes that will have extra security for those who still want to walk.

The leaflet clearly discourages such foolhardiness, a paranoia fuelled by guidance provided by Obiter's own hotel, which, as a subtext says, you would be bonkers to cover the ground by foot, and gently suggests that one would be better off taking a taxi or bus.