Prof. Ruth Hoskins to keynote XXVII SCECSAL this April – Strengthening LIS for a Digital Future

Prof. Ruth Hoskins

Professor Ruth Hoskins, Dean of Teaching and Learning at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, will be one of the keynote speakers at the XXVII SCECSAL Conference, taking place from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia.

Her keynote, titled “Strengthening LIS Human Capital in Africa for a Digital Future,” is scheduled for 30 April at 08:30. It will offer valuable perspectives into developing LIS skills and capacities across Africa and explore how the sector can leverage digital opportunities to develop a workforce ready for the challenges of the 21st century.

Prof. Hoskins holds a PhD in Library and Information Science and brings extensive expertise in academic libraries, ICTs in libraries, scholarly publishing, and information behaviour. She has published widely, including work on open access in South African university libraries and indigenous knowledge in open-access repositories.

Beyond research, she has a distinguished career in higher education and professional service, serving on editorial boards, reviewing for leading LIS journals, and contributing to national initiatives that enhance student success and transformative learning. Her commitment to teaching excellence has been recognized with a Certificate of Excellence in Teaching from her university.

Prof. Hoskins’s deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the LIS profession makes her an ideal speaker to address strategic development of LIS human capital for Africa’s digital future.

Join us at the XXVII SCECSAL Conference from 27 April to 1 May and be inspired by Prof. Hoskins’s vision for developing Library and Information Science (LIS) human capital to strengthen Africa’s libraries and information services for a digital future.

Register now: conference.scecsal.org

Learn more about Prof. Hoskins: UKZN profile

Harnessing AI and data for Africa’s development: Dr. Edmund Balnaves to deliver keynote address at the SCECSAL conference in April

Dr Edmund Balnaves

During the Opening Ceremony of the XXVII SCECSAL Conference on 28 April, Dr Edmund Balnaves, Chief Executive Officer of Prosentient Systems (Australia) and Chair of the Information Technology Section of International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, will be among the distinguished speakers. He will deliver a keynote address on “Harnessing AI and Data in African Libraries for Africa’s Development.”

As libraries across Africa navigate rapid digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven systems are reshaping how knowledge is discovered, accessed, and used. Dr Balnaves brings decades of global experience spanning library systems, metadata innovation, and AI-enhanced discovery, expertise that is highly relevant to African institutions seeking scalable, sustainable digital solutions.

Currently Chair of the Information Technology Section of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), Dr Balnaves has played a leading role in shaping international conversations on library technologies, including AI in libraries and information management. His work spans cloud-based library platforms, AI-assisted search and discovery, and the strategic reuse of metadata to unlock knowledge at scale. His doctoral research focused on systematic content reuse and metadata - foundational elements for intelligent information systems.

For Africa, the stakes are high. Libraries remain critical infrastructure for education, research, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning, yet many face persistent challenges, including limited funding, outdated technology, insufficient digital resources, and gaps in staff capacity. As the continent undergoes rapid digital transformation, leveraging AI and data-driven systems offers an opportunity to modernize library services, improve access to knowledge, and support scalable, sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of students, researchers, and communities. 

Dr Balnaves’ keynote will explore how African libraries, as trusted and equitable community institutions, can mediate the adoption of AI technologies in ways that serve the public good, uphold ethical standards, and meet local needs. He will highlight the broader AI ecosystem beyond generative AI, including machine learning for image recognition, big data analytics, and AI-powered translation tools - critical for bridging linguistic diversity and improving access to educational, governmental, and cultural resources in local languages.

Later in the week, Dr Balnaves will join an expert panel on “AI and Library and Information Services in Africa,” engaging with regional specialists and delegates on practical applications, ethical frameworks, and future-ready skills for library professionals.

As Africa accelerates its digital transformation, AI discussions must be grounded in inclusion, sustainability, and local empowerment. The XXVII SCECSAL Conference provides a timely platform for library and information professionals, policymakers, development practitioners, and academicians to engage in meaningful dialogue on how AI and data can drive inclusive and equitable library services.

Join us on 28 April 2026 for this forward-looking keynote and discover how AI and data can empower African libraries to foster inclusive, equitable development, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Register at: https://conference.scecsal.org/

Updated Information Note Now Available – XXVII SCECSAL Conference, April 2026

Delegates attending the XXVII SCECSAL Conference, taking place from 27 April – 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia are advised that the updated Delegates Quick Information Guide (2 March 2026 edition) is now available for download.

Please review the document carefully, as it contains important updates and reminders regarding:

Registration & deadlines

• Standard Registration deadline: 20 March 2026
• No bank transfers will be accepted after 20 March 2026.
• Onsite registration fees will automatically apply to all payments received after the published deadlines.
• No cash or credit card payments will be accepted onsite. All registration fees must be paid in Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) and deposited into the official Conference Account at Indo-Zambia Bank, Livingstone Branch.
• To avoid inconveniences and to ensure a smooth onsite registration process, delegates are strongly encouraged to complete payment via bank wire transfer well before the deadline.

Early action is strongly encouraged to avoid higher onsite registration rates.

Accommodation

April is peak tourism season in Livingstone, with high visitor numbers to Victoria Falls, and hotel rooms fill up quickly. Delegates are strongly advised to book and confirm their accommodation as soon as possible. The Conference Organisers cannot guarantee assistance with accommodation for late bookings or for delegates arriving in Livingstone without confirmed reservations. A list of recommended hotels, including any available special delegate rates, is provided on the conference website.

Transport & arrival

Delegates may arrive via Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone or Victoria Falls International Airport (Zimbabwe). Please arrange airport transfers with your hotel in advance where shuttle services are available.

If your hotel does not provide airport transfers, you may use locally available transport options, including Yango ride-hailing services and private taxis, for travel from the airport to your accommodation.

Conference-arranged shuttle bus services will operate between the recommended hotels and the conference venue. Delegates who miss the scheduled shuttle services may also use Yango or private taxis for convenient transport to and from the venue.

All delegates are encouraged to download and read the updated Information Note in full to ensure smooth participation.

Dr. Tuesday Bwalya to deliver keynote at XXVII SCECSAL Conference in Livingstone

Dr Tuesday Bwalya, seated in the middle

The SCECSAL Conference Organizing Committee is delighted to announce that Dr. Tuesday Bwalya will deliver a keynote address at this year’s Standing Conference of Eastern, Central, and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL). The conference will take place from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia. 

Dr. Bwalya’s keynote, titled “African Libraries and Information Services at the New Crossroads,” is scheduled for 27 April, the first day of this major regional event. His address will set the tone for a thoughtful and inspiring exploration of the transformative journey African libraries are undertaking, highlighting the opportunities and challenges posed by rapid technological, social, and economic changes across the continent. 

About Dr. Tuesday Bwalya

Dr. Bwalya is a scholar, educator, and librarian based in Zambia. He is the Head of the Technical Services Department at the University of Zambia (UNZA) Library while also serving as a lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Science at the same university. In addition, he plays a key editorial role as the Managing Editor of the Zambia Journal of Library & Information Science. He is also the Vice-Chairperson of the University Council at Mulungushi University, one of the public universities in the country.

Dr. Bwalya holds a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from UNZA and earned his Master’s in Information Science from Northeast Normal University in China. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing library automation, open access publishing, e-records management, and information systems that support inclusive access to knowledge across communities. His training and professional development have taken him across multiple continents, including specialized study in India and Belgium focused on free and open-source library management systems. 

 “African Libraries and Information Services at the New Crossroads”

The theme of Dr. Bwalya’s keynote resonates with the overarching focus of SCECSAL 2026: navigating a pivotal moment for libraries and information services in Africa. As institutions grapple with digital transformation, evolving user expectations, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, this keynote will highlight both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for libraries seeking to remain relevant, equitable, and future-ready. 

From advocacy and policy influence to innovation in service delivery and the adoption of digital tools, his address is expected to stimulate meaningful dialogue among conference delegates and set the tone for the sessions that follow. 

Join us in Livingstone

Whether you are a library professional, researcher, student, policymaker, or simply someone interested in transforming communities and advancing sustainable development through information, knowledge, innovation, and collaboration, the XXVII SCECSAL Conference is the forum for you.

The conference will provide an engaging platform to connect with leading library and information science experts in Africa, including Dr. Bwalya, and to contribute meaningfully to shaping the future of library and information services across the continent.

For more information and registration for the conference, visit the conference website at https://conference.scecsal.org/

Call for candidates: Independent SCECSAL President

The Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL) invites applications from suitably qualified individuals to be considered as candidates for election to the position of Independent SCECSAL President.

The position of Independent SCECSAL President is established in accordance with Article 6, Sub-section 6.1 of the SCECSAL Constitution, which provides for SCECSAL Officers and their respective roles.

The Independent SCECSAL President serves as the principal governance leader of SCECSAL and provides strategic direction to the organization in accordance with its Constitution, vision, and mission.

The role is accountable to the SCECSAL General Assembly and works closely with the SCECSAL Management Board to ensure effective governance, policy oversight, and regional representation.

As an independent office bearer, the President is expected to uphold the highest standards of impartiality, ethical leadership, and institutional stewardship, while representing SCECSAL at regional and international fora.

Eligible candidates will be presented for election at the XXVII SCECSAL Conference in Livingstone. The duly elected Independent President will be announced on 2 May 2026 during the SCECSAL General Assembly Meeting in Livingstone, Zambia.

Interested individuals are invited to download the Call for Candidates and submit their applications to the addresses indicated therein by Friday, 20 March 2026.

Call for Candidates (PDF)

Preliminary programme for the XXVII SCECSAL conference announced

Download the programme

The XXVII SCECSAL Conference Organising Committee has announced the Preliminary Programme for the Conference, scheduled to take place from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia, located near the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders and a must-see destination for conference delegates.

The conference will bring together library and information professionals, researchers, lecturers, policymakers, development partners, graduate students, and industry leaders focused on strengthening development outcomes, transforming communities, and advancing sustainable development in Africa through information, knowledge, innovation, and collaborative action. 

Conference highlights.

The five-day programme features a blend of keynote addresses, plenary sessions, panel discussions, parallel paper presentations, training workshops, and cultural activities, all designed to promote knowledge exchange, professional development, and regional collaboration.

Key thematic areas covered in the programme include:

• Artificial Intelligence and library and information services in Africa
• Libraries, information services, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Partnerships, advocacy, and strategic positioning of libraries
• Digital technologies, open science, and reading culture
• Innovation and transformation in library and information services
• Policy, legal, and cybersecurity issues
• Knowledge management in organisational and development contexts
• Data, analytics, and artificial intelligence in libraries
• Strategic marketing of library and information services

Keynote addresses and expert panel discussions

The programme features high-level keynote speakers and expert panellists drawn from leading universities, national libraries, international organisations, and the private sector. The three keynote addresses will explore topics such as:

• African libraries at new crossroads
• Harnessing AI and data for Africa’s development
• Strengthening LIS human capital for a digital future

In addition, interactive panel discussions will examine how libraries and information professionals can advance the SDGs, build resilient and sustainable partnerships, and responsibly adopt artificial intelligence to enhance service delivery across the African continent.

Plenary and parallel sessions 

Participants can look forward to a rich programme of plenary and parallel sessions featuring peer-reviewed papers and case studies from across the SCECSAL region. These sessions will highlight practical experiences, evidence-based research, and innovative initiatives that demonstrate how information professionals and their institutions - libraries – in Africa are contributing to social transformation, capacity development, and sustainable development.

The programme also includes optional training sessions, side events, and professional meetings. 

Cultural evening and networking

Beyond the academic and professional sessions, the conference will feature networking opportunities, including a Welcome Cocktail and a Cultural Evening. Highlights of the Cultural Evening include the SCECSAL Excellence Awards ceremony and the Rhythms of SCECSAL where delegates from participating countries showcase their cultures through cultural or national dress, dance, poetry, and song - celebrating unity in diversity across the SCECSAL region and beyond.

What’s next?

This programme is preliminary and subject to change. Participants and interested readers are encouraged to regularly visit the SCECSAL Forum Blog for the latest updates and announcements. For official information on registration, accommodation and transport arrangements, and the final conference programme, please follow SCECSAL and LIAZ communication channels and visit the conference website at https://conference.scecsal.org/.

Experience the XXVII SCECSAL Conference like never before – see you in Livingstone this April!

Download the programme HERE!

This April, the SCECSAL Conference 2026 heads to Livingstone, Zambia

 

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The library and information community across Africa and beyond is set to gather in one of the continent’s most breathtaking destinations as the XXVII SCECSAL Conference 2026 takes place from 27th April to 1st May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia’s tourism capital.

An essential fixture on Africa’s library and information science (LIS) calendar, the SCECSAL Conference is a flagship biennial gathering that convenes information professionals, development practitioners, academics, policymakers, and innovators from across the continent and beyond to engage in high-level discussions on the evolving information landscape and its impact and role in Africa’s development agenda.

Hosted just a stone’s throw from the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the world’s natural wonders, this high-profile conference will be held under the theme: “African Libraries and Information Services at the New Crossroads.”

The theme reflects a critical moment for African libraries and information services, shaped by digital transformation, evolving user needs, open knowledge movements, and the growing role of information in socio-economic development. The conference will provide a strategic platform for dialogue, partnerships, and forward-looking solutions that will influence the future direction of information services across Africa.

Participants can look forward to a vibrant programme designed to inspire library and information professionals, academics, LIS students, development practitioners, and policymakers across the information, education, and technology sectors. The conference will feature high-level keynote addresses, engaging panel discussions, technical sessions, exhibitions, and rich networking opportunities with peers and LIS experts from across Africa and around the world, all set in the inspiring environment of one of the world’s natural wonders.

Keynote addresses by distinguished African and international experts will explore critical issues shaping the sector, including the future direction of African libraries, the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and data for development, and the strengthening of LIS human capital for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Interactive panel discussions will bring together practitioners, scholars, and policymakers to examine pressing themes such as Artificial Intelligence and Libraries, Libraries and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the creation of strategic partnerships for sustainable library and information services.

Technical sessions will offer participants the opportunity to contribute to focused discussions across key areas, including empowering libraries and users for transformative services, innovation in library and information services, data analytics and cybersecurity, and the application of artificial intelligence in libraries.

Have you registered yet?

Standard registration closes on 20th March 2026, so now is the time to secure your place.

Register today by visiting: https://conference.scecsal.org/

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping the future of library  and information services in Africa at this important event in Livingstone.