Unveiling the XXVIth SCECSAL conference 2024 programme

Participants from the Uganda Library and Information
Association at the 2012 SCECSAL Cultural
Evening in Nairobi, Kenya

The Kenyan Library Association has released the program for the XXVIth SCECSAL Conference, scheduled to take place in the vibrant coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya, from 22 to 26 April 2024, at the picturesque PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort, Convention Centre & Spa.  

Kicking off the conference on Monday, 22 April is Prof. Clara Chu, Director and Mortenson Distinguished Professor at the Mortenson Center for International Library Programs, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA. Prof. Chu's keynote address, titled “Our Libraries and Our Communities in the Digital Era: Re-imagining Services with Intention,” sets the tone for the innovative discussions to follow.

More than 60 papers are scheduled to be presented, with speakers coming from the United States, Thailand, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Tanzania, among other countries.

Among the highlights of the conference are two special sessions: one focusing on SCECSAL@50 and the other on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Libraries. In these sessions, participants will discuss the development of SCECSAL since its establishment in 1974, the successes scored, and challenges faced. They will also share inspiring stories and experiences about how libraries are actively contributing to the achievement of the SDGs, fostering community development, and empowerment.

On Wednesday, April 24th, participants will have the opportunity to engage in enriching training sessions designed to enhance their skills and knowledge in key areas. Prof. Chu will lead a training workshop on 'Strengthening Innovative Library Leaders: Cultivating Your Leadership Style and Library Sustainable Development,' while Prof. Omwoyo Bosire Onyancha from the University of South Africa will deliver a training session on 'Harnessing Research Impact in Library Practice.' These sessions are open to conference participants, and the number of seats is very limited.

On Wednesday, there will also be a meeting of the Standing Conference of African National and University Librarians-Eastern, Central & Southern (SCANUL-ECS), as well as a tour of Mombasa.

As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, Wednesday will culminate in a Cultural Evening, during which 19 individuals will be honored for their outstanding contributions to library and information sciences in the SCECSAL region. These individuals have played pivotal roles in advancing SCECSAL's mission and have tirelessly worked towards the development of libraries and information services in their communities.

The SCECSAL Cultural Evening also offers participants the opportunity to showcase their national dress and compete in the dancing competition

On Thursday, April 25th, the conference continues with parallel sessions on 'Responsive Information Service and Products,' 'Information Ethics and Practices,' and 'Technology and Innovation'.

On Friday, April 26th, the day begins with a session on SDGs and Libraries, which will include presentations on SDGs and library initiatives, the sharing of stories related to SDGs and libraries, and a panel discussion by practitioners highlighting initiatives aimed at contributing to the achievement of the SDGs in countries within the SCECSAL region.

The XXVIth SCECSAL Conference promises to be a dynamic and inspiring event, bringing together passionate professionals dedicated to shaping the future of information services in the digital era. We look forward to welcoming you to Mombasa for what is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

For more information and to register, visit SCECSAL's conference website. See you in Mombasa!

Download a copy of the conference programme HERE!

Ensure smooth travel to the XXVIth SCECSAL Conference in Mombasa, Kenya

Apply for your Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) today

http://www.etakenya.go.ke/

As the excitement builds for the upcoming XXVIth SCECSAL Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, the
SCECSAL Secretariat would like to bring to the attention of all travelers a crucial requirement for travel to Kenya: the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

The Government of Kenya mandates that all travelers to Kenya must obtain an eTA before entering the country. This includes those attending the SCECSAL Conference. We urge all attendees to apply for their eTA well in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

What is an eTA and why is it important?

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) grants permission to travel to Kenya. It is a mandatory requirement for all visitors entering the country. Without a valid eTA, airlines may refuse boarding to passengers, causing significant disruptions to travel plans.

How to apply for your eTA

To apply for your eTA, please visit the official Government of Kenya website: http://www.etakenya.go.ke/. It is crucial to use the official government portal for your application to avoid any complications or delays.

Important information for your application

Among others, along with your eTA application, you will need to provide proof of confirmed hotel accommodation booking in Mombasa. This ensures that you have arranged for your stay during the conference.

The standard processing time for an eTA is 72 hours. However, in some cases, it may take longer. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for your eTA as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute issues.

Take action now for a seamless travel experience

As we eagerly anticipate the XXVIth SCECSAL Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, we want to ensure that all participants have a smooth and stress-free journey. Applying for your eTA in good time is crucial to avoid any travel disruptions.

If you have not yet applied for your eTA, we urge you to do so immediately by visiting http://www.etakenya.go.ke/. Your timely action will contribute to a successful and enjoyable experience at the conference.

Kenya Library Association extends deadline for submission of SCECSAL conference papers

In response to multiple requests, the Kenya Library Association has extended the deadline for submissions of full papers for the SCECSAL Conference to April 5, 2024, to ensure that all interested participants have ample time to finalize their contributions. This extension provides an excellent opportunity for those working on their papers to submit their work and be part of the SCECSAL Conference.

The Conference takes place from April 22nd to April 26th, in Mombasa, Kenya.

Full papers should be submitted to: conference@kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke

For registration and further details on arrangements including accommodation, visit: https://kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke/scecsal-xxvi/

Empowering women through information: a call to action on International Women's Day 2024

by Pauline Namulomba Nchemba

Pauline Namulomba Nchemba

On this International Women's Day 2024, our global community comes together to reflect upon the theme designated by the United Nations: 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,' in tandem with the campaign theme, 'Inspire Inclusion.' These themes serve as poignant reminders of the urgent need to address economic disempowerment among women and to promote diversity and empowerment across all sectors of society.

International Women's Day holds profound significance as it shines a spotlight on critical issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the pervasive violence and abuse endured by women worldwide. It serves as a rallying cry for collective action and collaboration in advocating for women's rights and empowerment. However, it also serves as a stark reminder that gender parity remains an elusive goal, with estimates suggesting it may take over a century to achieve full equality.

As librarians and information professionals, we recognize the pivotal role that information management plays in empowering women and fostering inclusivity in our society. Libraries stand as vital hubs of information, knowledge, and learning, offering individuals, regardless of gender, access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Yet, we acknowledge that access to information is not evenly distributed, and women, particularly those from marginalized communities, often face formidable barriers in accessing and utilizing information effectively. Thus, on this Women's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to breaking down these barriers and empowering women with the tools they need to thrive.

A myriad of initiatives can be undertaken in line with the theme "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress" and "Inspire Inclusion" for International Women's Day. These include organizing digital literacy workshops, establishing women entrepreneurship programs, developing inclusive library programming, creating scholarship programs for women, conducting gender sensitization workshops, establishing resource centers for women, fostering collaborative partnerships, and launching advocacy campaigns.

Open science emerges as a pivotal solution in providing and accessing these services and initiatives. With open science, we can democratize access to information, facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing, and empower women to fully participate in the digital age.

Librarians play a crucial role in championing these endeavors by curating diverse collections, providing digital literacy training, and advocating for equal access to information for all. By embracing inclusivity in our libraries and information centers, we can create welcoming spaces where women feel valued, respected, and empowered to pursue their goals and aspirations.

Let us harness the power of information to inspire inclusion, advance gender equality, and accelerate progress for women across our nation and beyond. Together, let us continue to champion the cause of women's empowerment and work tirelessly to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for all.

Happy International Women's Day!

--

The author, Pauline Namulomba Nchemba, is Librarian and E-Learning Coordinator at the Levy Mwanawasa Medical University (LMMU) in Lusaka, Zambia. She is also the Vice President of the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ).

Tell your library’s SDGs story! Share your library’s SDGs experiences!

... at the session on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Libraries, and Information Services in the SCECSAL Region in Mombasa, Kenya

During the upcoming XXVIth SCECSAL Conference on 22-26 April in Mombasa, Kenya, the SCECSAL Secretariat and the Kenya Library Association will provide a platform, on 26 April, for libraries,  information centres, library associations, and individual library and information professionals in the SCECSAL region (and from outside the region) to share stories and experiences on their programmes, initiatives, products, and services that promote or contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the national or regional level. 

If you will be attending the SCECSAL Conference in Mombasa and you have an SDGs story to tell or an experience to share, please contact the SCECSAL Secretariat. Send us your proposal indicating the following:

1. Title of the story (maximum 10 words)
2. Target beneficiaries. 
3. SDGs being addressed.
4. Description/narrative (350-500 words).

You may want to read IFLA’s How to tell your story Elements of compelling evidence-based storytelling for a quick guide.

The session will include presentations of selected SDGs stories and an expert panel discussion. We welcome stories from libraries, library associations, library and information professionals, and organizations supporting libraries to provide and deliver library and information services that are contributing to achieving the SDGs.

Send your proposals and requests for further information, via email, to: secretariat@scecsal.org.

The deadline for submitting the proposals is 22 March 2024.

Register for the Conference at: https://kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke/scecsal-xxvi/

PDF version of the announcement is available HERE.

SCECSAL and SDGs

Copyright: IFLA

Libraries, library associations and information professionals play a central role in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the associated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The member associations of the Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Librarians (SCECSAL) have recognized this importance and have taken proactive steps to align their activities with both the national and global development agendas.

At the 2014 SCECSAL conference in Lilongwe, Malawi, a resolution was adopted to synchronize their efforts with the post-2015 strategies to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. Eight years later, in 2022, SCECSAL members decided to link their library and information services activities to the SDGs and make them an integral part of the biennial SCECSAL country reports.

The SCECSAL conferences planned for 2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030 will feature plenary sessions on libraries, information services and SDGs in the SCECSAL region. These sessions will include presentations and panel discussions and will provide a platform for sharing insights and experiences on how libraries and information services are actively contributing to sustainable development efforts in the region.

Through the resolutions adopted at the SCECSAL conferences and the initiatives implemented by member Associations, SCECSAL demonstrates its commitment to harnessing the power of libraries and information services to advance the SDGs and promote positive change in the Eastern, Central and Southern Africa region. Such concerted efforts underscore the critical role that library and information professionals play in shaping a sustainable future for all.

Elevating professionalism: LIAZ's information management training workshop for librarians, registry, and records personnel

LIAZ workshop participants at
 the M'kango Golf View Hotel in Lusaka, Zambia

In a bid to enhance professionalism in libraries, registries, and record centers, the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) recently organized a comprehensive Information Management Training workshop under the theme: “Enhancing professionalism in Libraries, Registries and Record Centers through ethical conduct, confidentiality, transparency, skills development and capacity building”. The workshop was held from the 4th to 8th of December, 2023, at M'kango Golfview Hotel in Lusaka and it drew over 150 participants, representing all 116 councils in Zambia. 

Opening Remarks and Objectives

Ms. Pauline Namulomba Nchemba, LIAZ Vice President, set the tone by emphasizing the critical role of the workshop in preparing attendees for success. She highlighted the focus on ethical standards, confidentiality, transparency, skill enhancement, and capacity building within public libraries and registry offices. The workshop aimed to foster ethical principles, ensure confidentiality, promote transparency, enhance technological proficiency, develop customer service techniques, and instill a culture of continuous learning.

Official Opening by the Guest of Honour - Mr. Nicholas Phiri-Permanent Secretary

Mr. Nicholas Phiri, the Permanent Secretary -Technical Services
Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development

The workshop was officially opened by Mr. Nicholas Phiri, the Permanent Secretary-Technical Services, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development. Mr. Phiri commended the initiative, stating that such training is a valuable investment intended to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in managing outcome-oriented institutions. He urged attendees to apply the lessons learned, expressing the ministry's expectation of a notable difference in the operations of libraries, registries, and the handling of confidential information.

In addition, Mr. Phiri thanked LIAZ on behalf of the ministry for their assistance in promoting and advancing the nation's national development goal. "The new dawn government is dedicated to making sure that development is achieved nationwide without leaving any region behind”. 

LIAZ President’s Commitment

Mrs. Mutinta Nabuyanda, LIAZ President

Mrs. Mutinta Nabuyanda, LIAZ President, expressed gratitude to Mr. Nicholas Phiri and reaffirmed LIAZ's commitment to capacity building. She acknowledged the collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and highlighted LIAZ's dedication to addressing identified skill gaps through periodic skills audits.

Facilitators and Workshop Highlights

The workshop featured three facilitators: Mr. Solomon Nyirenda, Mr. Godfrey Miti, and Eng. Bornwell Luanga. They covered a range of topics, including enhancing professionalism, data protection, privacy, confidentiality, technological proficiency, record-keeping, transparency, customer service, community engagement, and professional growth.

On the first day, all the 3 facilitators gave overviews that focused on Challenges of Information Management in Public/ Private Institutions, Role of Librarians and Registry officers in Community Building and Enhancing Professionalism in Libraries, Record centers and Registry Services. On the second day, the discussion on data protection, privacy, and confidentiality was led by Eng. Bornwell Luanga. On the third day, Mr. Solomon Nyirenda covered technological proficiency, record-keeping, and transparency and on the fourth day, Mr. Godfrey Miti emphasized customer service, community engagement, and professional growth

Closing and Certification

Certificates of attendance were issued to all participants on the last day of the workshop, recognizing their commitment to enhancing professionalism in libraries, registries, and record centers. LIAZ's Information Management Training Workshop stands as a beacon for continuous learning and development within the field, ensuring that librarians and registry officers are equipped with the necessary skills to drive positive change in their respective roles. The workshop not only contributes to individual professional growth but also aligns with the national development goals of Zambia, showcasing the pivotal role libraries play in the country's progress.

Kenya Library Association extends deadline for submission of abstracts for SCECSAL 2024 conference

The Kenya Library Association has extended the deadline to 30 September 2023 for submission of abstracts for papers to be presented at the XXVIth SCECSAL Conference to be held on 22-26 April 2024.

The conference, on the theme Re-Imagining Information Products and Services for the Digital Era, will be held at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort, Convention Centre & Spa, in Mombasa. 

Details about the conference, including sub-themes, registration, fees, payment instructions, and key dates, are available at the following web link:  https://kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke/scecsal-xxv/.

Abstracts must be submitted to conference@kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke while the request for general Information should be scecsalxxv@kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke.

Zambia Vice President Nalumango urges librarians to be proactive

As LIAZ celebrates Golden Jubilee 

Official opening of LIAZ 50th Annual General Meeting
and Conference

Zambia's Vice President Mutale Nalumango has encouraged
librarians in the country to be proactive and innovative in carrying their duty as the Zambian government has created an enabling environment for them to operate.

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Mr Joel Kamoko, Permanent Secretary (Educational Services), at the official opening of the 50th Annual General Meeting and Conference for the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ), Mrs Nalumango urged the association to take advantage of opportunities provided by the government citing as an example the Constituency Development Fund which is available to information professionals to expand their horizon in delivering information services starting from constituencies. “I encourage the association to come up with innovative ideas to enhance information and service delivery” she said.

"My government stands ready to render the support in accordance with government policy,” she added.

Mrs Nalumango said that despite the challenges librarians and other allied professionals encounter during their course of duty, they should, together with the association, focus on the great achievements scored during the golden jubilee celebrations. 

And with Zambia selected to host the biennial regional Standing Conference of Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL) in 2026 which was last staged in 2008, Mrs Nalumango noted that LIAZ's agenda is aligned with the vision and aspiration of the New Dawn administration which seeks to enhance human and social development for everyone. 

Participants at the 50th LIAZ Annual General Meeting
Conference in Livingstone

On her part, LIAZ president Mutinta Nabuyanda said that her association is complementing government efforts on ensuring that its members are provided with new, innovative, and appropriate skills in the field of information science. "Just this year, over 200 professionals have benefited from both physical and online training and presentations organised by the association and its partners, she said. 

Mrs Nabuyanda further noted that despite the challenges faced by librarians, such as lack of professional legislation, LIAZ has not relented in ensuring that information professionals have positive impact in communities, the nation and beyond. LIAZ president further informed the gathering that the association was working closely with the Ministry of Education to spearhead the Zambia Institute of Library and Information professional bill, which will regulate the conduct of library and information professionals” she added. 

Speaking at the same event, Livingstone Deputy Mayor, Mr John Banda said that: "As information professionals, you are the architects of transformation. Your dedication to preserving the past, curating the present, and shaping the future is truly commendable. Each day, you touch lives, plant seeds of curiosity, and nurture the aspirations of countless individuals who walk through the doors of your libraries and other information centres." 

LIAZ celebrated the milestone achievement of the Golden Jubilee from 25 to 28 July 2023, in Livingstone under the theme “LIAZ at Fifty: Translating Records Centres, Library Services and Research Information into Policy, Practice and Action”.

Call for abstracts for the XXVIth SCECSAL Conference to be held in April 2024 in Mombasa, Kenya

The Kenya Library Association has launched the call for abstracts for the XXVth Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL) Conference to beheld on 22-26 April 2024 at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort, Convention Centre & Spa, in Mombasa, Kenya.

The details, including registration, fees, payment instructions, and key dates are available at the following web link:  

https://kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke/scecsal-xxv/ 

The deadline for submission of abstracts is 31 August 2023.

The theme for the conference is Re-Imagining Information Products and Services for the Digital Era with the following sub-themes:

• Emerging LIS Roles in the Digital Era
• Responsive Information Services and Products
• Technology and Innovation
•  Information Ethics and Practices
•  LIS Education, Research and Training for the Digital Era
•  Best Practices in Records and Information Management

Contacts:

Abstracts must be submitted to: conference@kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke

Send request for general Information to:  scecsalxxv@kenyalibraryassociation.or.ke

Founded in 1974, SCECSAL is one of the oldest forums for library and information professionals in sub-Saharan Africa that is still active. Its biennial SCECSAL conferences are hosted by SCECSAL member Association with the support of the SCECAL Secretariat. 

KLA last hosted the SCECSAL conference in 2012, having previously hosted the conference in 1978 and 1998.

The Library and Information Association of South Africa hosted the XXIVth SCECSAL conference in October 2022 while the National Information and Library Workers Association of Namibia (NIWAN) hosted the XXIVth SCECSAL Conference in 2021, after being postponed from April 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In 2024, the SCECSAL conference will return to its normal schedule of being held in the last week of the month of April. The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) will host SCECSAL in 2026.

 

Kid's Planet Academy visits Kitwe Council Library

Kid's Planet Academy kids outside the
Kitwe City Council Library

The vibrant children of Kid's Planet Academy on June 2, 2023 embarked on a thrilling adventure to the
Kitwe City Council Public Library. With their curious minds and sparkling eyes, they eagerly stepped into the realm of knowledge, ready to explore the vast wonders of literature.

As the children entered the library, a sense of awe and excitement washed over them. They were greeted by towering shelves adorned with books of every shape, size, and color. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of inked pages, inviting them to delve into the captivating stories within.

The librarian, a warm and friendly soul, welcomed the children with open arms. He knew the transformative power of books and was thrilled to witness their enthusiasm. Leading them through the maze of knowledge, she guided them to the magical realm of children's literature.

The young explorers scattered in different directions, drawn to the enchanting tales that awaited them. Some ventured into the land of fairy tales, where dragons soared and princesses found their happily-ever-afters. Others dove into the vast oceans of non-fiction, uncovering facts about planets, dinosaurs, and faraway lands.

Kid's Planet Academy kids inside the
Kitwe City Council Library

As they wandered through the library's corridors, the children discovered hidden nooks and cozy
reading corners. They curled up in beanbag chairs, engrossed in their chosen stories, their imaginations running wild. Laughter filled the air as they shared fascinating tidbits they had learned, igniting a spark of curiosity within their fellow adventurers.

Time seemed to fly in the realm of books, and soon it was time for the children to bid farewell to the library. As they gathered near the entrance, their faces beamed with pure joy and a newfound appreciation for the world of literature. The librarian commended their eagerness to explore and encouraged them to continue their journey through books beyond the library walls.

With hearts full of gratitude, the children left the Kitwe City Council Public Library, carrying with them a treasure trove of stories and knowledge. They knew that their visit had kindled a love for reading that would guide them on countless future adventures.

From that day forward, the children of Kid's Planet Academy embraced books as their constant companions, seeking solace, inspiration, and endless possibilities within their pages. And as they continued to grow and learn, they cherished the memory of their visit to the library, forever grateful for the gift of knowledge it had bestowed upon them.

LIAZ commemorates 2023 World Book Day

Participants at the World Book Day
in Lusaka West

The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) today April 24, 2023 joined the rest of the
international community in commemorating World Book and Copyright Day themed " Your World" with Lubuto Library Partners at Lubuto Mthunzi American Youth Library in Lusaka West. 

The event was characterized by several activities which included a library tour, storytelling, read aloud session with the children and the book talk session which was led by a local author and producer of Kasuba's Inner Safari Quest Ms. Bwalya Penza. Ms. Bwalya born in Lusaka and educated in England is an author, speaker and certified Adventures in wisdom coach, teaches children how they would thrive as they navigate their way through life. 

 Over 40 children attended the event and LIAZ members who were in company were excited to learn about good children literature through this visit. Key to mention is the idea of braille children’s books in the collection and the excellent children's classification system displayed in the library which makes it easier for children to locate their favourite books.

Remembering Dr Vitalicy Chifwepa

 Library and Information Association of Zambia

Dr Vitalicy Chifwepa speaking at a LIAZ event

A few days ago, the library and information fraternity learnt of the untimely death of Dr Vitalicy Chifwepa. Dr Chifwepa was a highly professional and outstanding public servant, citizen and intellectual of our country who both practiced and taught library and information science. He started his career as a librarian in the Planning Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Development, as it was called then. That was after he obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Library Studies at the University of Zambia (UNZA). He proceeded to study for his Master of Library and Information Science at University of Western Ontario, Canada, after which he became a lecturer at the University of Zambia. 

He lectured in the department of Library and Information Science at UNZA from 1991 rising to the rank of Senior Lecturer. He later headed the Department before he was appointed as the Director of Distance Education at UNZA, and later as the University Librarian at the same university from 2008 to 2015. From 2016, Dr Chifwepa had been working as the Director of Quality Assurance at the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the position he held until his death on Tuesday, 29 March 2023. 

Of his many other accomplishments, Dr Chifwepa also served as the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) president, awarded a life member of the association, and mentored many people within and outside his professional circles. 

Dr Chifwepa’s death joins the many luminaries of our country who have gone before him, and whose work has impacted on many people. One after the other, the pioneering leaders of our continuing flight from want to knowledge, for whom the pursuit, production and application of knowledge constituted a way of life, have gone. The never-satisfied fat worm of death has consumed many of our intellectual guides and porters of light.

Like many others who knew and interacted with Dr Chifwepa, the moving tributes about him that have been read and heard from those who had the chance to experience life with him say a lot about the man. These testimonies demonstrate how, while alive, he touched the lives of others; that what he thought, said and did gave meaning and direction to the lives of many, lived his humanity on his sleeve and constantly challenged and enlisted us, as professionals, as human beings, to reveal or give expression to our inner greatness. Dr Chifwepa often spoke so passionately about the provision of quality library service for our country and his dream for the profession among others was the actualisation of the Library Professional Bill. It was as if he was spurred by the knowledge that the ultimate human legacy and essence of life is service to a given community, to humanity.

Dr Vitalicy Chifwepa

Many others who knew Dr Chifwepa would also agree that he consistently refused to draw attention to his earned and deserved academic credentials, believing, that conduct and sharing of one’s acquired specialist knowledge, not exhibition of one’s titles, is the fitting evidence of one’s education.

As members of the profession, colleagues and friends, we share the grief, sorrow and intense pain that Dr Chifwepa’s children and family must be feeling right now. They are not alone.  Many others, especially those whose lives he touched also feel his loss.

How does one let the world know how much debt it owes people like Dr Vitalicy Chifwepa – those who find a calling in nurturing the underdeveloped talent and endowment of genius that each person has by the sheer fact of birth; those who invest themselves completely into enriching the lives of others; those who find complete satisfaction in healing others; and those who, like academia and the professional practice, to which he contributed so much, are so selfless, so giving?

It remains our conviction that the relevance of death lies in its impact on those that live and that Dr Chifwepa’s death should inspire us to continually improve ourselves because it is in our quest for individual excellence that we truly become witnesses to the greatness of life and service to humanity. Let such deaths remind us to celebrate the ephemera and gift that each day is, to live now and in the present. 

Those of us still in possession of the gift of life have a duty to continue espousing and giving expression to the essential humane values bequeathed onto all future time by Dr Chifwepa and his outstanding predecessors, contemporaries, and successors no longer alive, so that their memory, individually and collectively, does not slide away as though they never lived.

LIAZ delivers a course on Customer Relations Management in the Digital Era

Fifty information professionals in Zambia benefit from the course.

Participants at the training

The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) delivered a training course on Customer
Relations Management (CRM) in the Digital Era: A Practical Approach at Mika Convention Center, in Chongwe, from 28th February to 3rd March 2023.

The training attracted fifty-five librarians, records managers, archivists, and many other allied information professionals drawn from different institutions ranging from public/special libraries to financial organizations.

The training objectives were among others; to equip the trainees with skills that would help improve customer relationships, practice confidentiality and manage conflict of interest in line with their duty, apply ethics and ethical considerations in both private and public life. The training was also aimed at equipping participants with skills on how to use technology in securing both physical and electronic records, understand how to use Big Data Technology (BDT) for Archives and records management and understand and manage social media platforms.

Speaking when she officially opened the training, LIAZ president, Mrs. Mutinta Nabuyanda noted that the training was crucial especially since it was after the COVID-19 pandemic which created challenges for most of the institutions that were more dependent on physical service provision.

She noted that the overall objective of this training was to equip practitioners with the necessary skills, knowledge and business strategies to understand, anticipate and manage the needs of organizations’ current and potential customers, particularly in the digital era.

LIAZ President, Mrs Mutinta Nabuyanda
giving her opening remarks at the training 

The LIAZ president stated that the objectives of the Association were to build a body of knowledge in the art and science of librarianship, documentation and information science as well as to stimulate interest and promote the exchange of information and ideas.

“I wish to remind you that your organization has supported you to attend this training and expect positive change in the execution of your duties. Therefore, I urge all of you to take this training seriously and prove your worth in your organizations” Mrs. Nabuyanda e emphasized.

The Customer Relations Management training included lectures complemented with tutorials and practical lab sessions. The tutorials and lab sessions enabled and exposed learners to various technologies in securing both physical and electronic records, understanding how to use Big Data Technology (BDT) for Archives and records management and understanding and managing social media platforms.

Further, the computer-based demonstrations in labs enabled participants to apply the knowledge gained in lectures. To ensure that learners understood the lessons, directed exercises and assignments were allocated at regular intervals for completion in the labs and also outside of class.

Speaking at the end of the four-day training sessions, Workshop Facilitator, Mr Geoffrey Miti emphasised that CRM technologies was crucial as it enables the companies and organisations to understand customer behaviour better, predict their future, deliver customized customer experience, and establish long-term customer relationships.

Mr Miti observed that “In today’s market conditions, customers demand better service and expect more from companies. Companies require to understand the needs, preferences, and buying behaviour of customers; in order to plan and execute interactions that create the best possible experience for their customers. As such, responding to the needs of customers efficiently is important, adding that customers do not only expect fast response, but they also evaluate the performance of the company by looking at how well companies handle their needs”.

He hoped that the participants were going to put into practice what they learned during the four days training.

And Head Librarian, Zambia Statistics Agency (ZamStats), Ms Juliet Mumba, applauded LIAZ for organizing the training. 

“We have learnt a lot and will now go back to our workplaces and be able to apply what we have learnt. This training is one of its kind, well organized and motivating. To the LIAZ executive you have our support. Hope to have more of such training with gifted facilitators such as Mr Miti” she added.

Zambia celebrates Word Read Aloud Day

The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) joined this year’s 2023 World Read Aloud Day by participating in several activities including public discussions at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) Library with students and librarians, literacy presentations by school, literacy video by American Spaces, presentations on how to write a good story among others. 

Several libraries across the country celebrated the day by participating in different activities. NIPA in collaboration with LIAZ celebrated and hosted the World Read Aloud Day at NIPA Library, in Lusaka, on Wednesday, February 1, 2023.

LIAZ President- Mutinta Nabuyanda in her opening remarks noted that access to reading materials in whatever form is critical. “I wish to make a clarion call to everyone out there to make it a habit to read for people especially children in homes. Doing so will go a long way in promoting the culture of reading among children” she added. 

Speaking as the same event, guest of Guest of Honour NIPA Governing Council Chairperson, Prof. Mary Shelalukey Ngoma, commended LIAZ for collaborating with cooperating partners in hosting this year’s World Read Aloud Day. 

Demonstrating winnowing, separation of chaff from
grain to school children, (not in picture) on WRAD

Dr Ngoma observed that “Reading aloud is one of the most important things parents and teachers can
do with children as it helps to build many vital foundational skills, introduces and builds vocabulary, provides a model of fluent, expressive reading, reduces stress, promotes empathy and helps children recognize what reading for pleasure is all about as it improves comprehension and active listening”.

She further encouraged parents to spend time reading with their children as it encourages discussions and gives a platform for building strong family bonds.” I encourage everyone to ensure our story is told and shared with our loved ones as every day is story day through the everyday experiences we encounter” she added.

The 2023 World Read Aloud Day is celebrated on February 1 each year in over 173 countries and brings people together through the shared connection of reading aloud in the communities. LitWorld, a non-profit organization that promotes literacy, initiated the World Read Aloud Day in 2010. Its mission is to strengthen kids and communities through the power of stories.