Vice President of the Republic of Zambia to Grace XXVII SCECSAL Conference as Guest of Honour

The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ), host of the XXVII Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL), is pleased to announce that Her Honour, Dr. W. K. Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of the Republic of Zambia, will grace the conference as Guest of Honour.

The XXVII SCECSAL Conference will take place from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone.

Held under the theme “African Libraries and Information Services at the New Crossroads", the conference will bring together library and information professionals, academics, LIS students, policymakers, development practitioners, private sector actors operating in the LIS sector, and innovators from across Africa and beyond. Participants will explore the evolving role of libraries and information services in advancing Africa’s development agenda in an ever-changing environment shaped by digital technologies.

The presence of the Vice President of the Republic of Zambia as the Guest of Honour underscores the growing national and regional recognition of libraries and information services as key pillars in education, research, innovation, and inclusive development. Her participation highlights the importance that the Zambian government places on access to information, knowledge sharing, and the role of libraries in shaping informed and empowered societies.

The SCECSAL Conference is a flagship biennial gathering that provides a platform for high-level dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration on key issues shaping the future of the library and information profession across the continent.

First held in 1974 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the SCECSAL Conference is the oldest continuously running regional conference for library and information professionals in Africa, and since the first conference in Dar es Salaam, it has been held biennially without missing a single cycle.

Delegates can look forward to a rich and engaging programme featuring keynote addresses, panel discussions, research presentations, training workshops, exhibitions, and valuable networking opportunities with peers and professionals from across the information, education, and technology sectors.

With the venue set in Livingstone, the tourism capital of Zambia, participants will also enjoy the unique setting of a city that is home to the world-famous Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Don’t be left out!

Register today and be part of this important continental conversation shaping the future of African libraries and information services.

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

 

XXVII SCECSAL Conference 2026: Livingstone, Zambia.

"Information professionals, mark your diaries." 

Welcoming the New Generation: First-Timers’ Orientation at the 51st LIAZ Conference

By Pauline Namulomba Nchemba

First timers delegates attending the 51st LIAZ AGC

The 51st Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Library & Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) kicked off in grand style at the beautiful Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone from August 20-23, 2024. With over 37 newcomers joining the LIAZ community, the event highlighted a significant moment for fresh members stepping into the evolving field of Library and Information Science (LIS).

Charting New Frontiers

This year’s conference theme, “Charting New Frontiers: Redefining Information Management in the Digital Era,” perfectly set the stage for the orientation session. Moderated by the dynamic LIAZ Vice President, Ms. Pauline Namulomba Nchemba, the session created a warm, welcoming space where first-timers were introduced to the core values, expectations, and resources that shape the LIS profession.

Setting the Foundation

Ms. Nchemba took the new members through the fundamentals of LIAZ, sharing insights on how LIAZ has served as a crucial platform since its founding in 1972. Registered with PACRA, the association stands tall as a guiding force in supporting the library and information profession across Zambia. As she navigated through the objectives of the session, it became clear that this was more than just an introduction — it was an invitation to embrace the broader LIS community, with all its opportunities for professional growth and impact.

LIAZ Vice President-Ms. Pauline Namulomba Nchemba

Core Values that Unite Us

In her presentation, Ms. Nchemba emphasized the shared values that unite the LIS field — access to information, lifelong learning, and intellectual freedom. She reassured the new members of the immense value LIAZ places on these ideals, stressing that their growing numbers are a testament to the profession’s expanding reach and societal impact.

LIAZ in Action: Resources and Tools for Every Professional

A key highlight of the session was the exploration of essential resources, tools, and technologies available to LIAZ members. From widely recognized software like Koha and D/Space to the invaluable consortiums and partnerships with GRZ Ministries and institutions, the session underscored how LIAZ is accelerating development by promoting equitable access to resources. LIAZ’s robust online presence through its Facebook page and website was showcased as critical hubs for accessing publications, joining webinars, and engaging with the latest industry trends.

Insight from LIS Experts

A key segment of the orientation featured insights from three seasoned professionals: Mrs. Sibajene, a librarian, Mr. William Nyoni, an expert in records management, and Mrs. Milambo Phiri, an archivist. Together, they provided deep insights into the roles and responsibilities that define the LIS profession.

The trio emphasized that LIS professionals and students are more than information managers; they are stewards of knowledge, tasked with ensuring access to information while maintaining its integrity. In an increasingly digital landscape, they stressed that the responsibilities of LIS professionals are both operational and transformative.

Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct

The experts also underscored the importance of upholding ethical standards in every aspect of LIS work. Mrs. Sibajene discussed challenges around ensuring equitable access to information and respecting intellectual freedom, while Mr. Nyoni highlighted the importance of confidentiality in records management, noting the critical role accurate records play in institutional decision-making and legal accountability. Mrs. Phiri encouraged archivists to take pride in safeguarding historical documents, emphasizing the integrity of the national and institutional memory.

First timers delegates

Building Community and Fostering Growth

Networking and collaboration are at the heart of LIAZ, and Ms. Nchemba didn’t miss a beat in encouraging first-timers to engage with the wider community. She tasked the newcomers with finding two people during the conference to help them grow professionally. This simple yet impactful activity was designed to create lasting connections while giving participants a sense of belonging in the LIS world. Existing members were also invited to reflect on their professional growth since the last conference, ensuring that the event promoted a culture of continuous learning and mentorship.

A Sense of Ownership and Pride

The session concluded with a call to embrace ownership of the LIS profession. Both the experts and the newcomers expressed a shared sense of pride in being part of the LIS community. Mrs. Sibajene, Mr. Nyoni, and Mrs. Phiri collectively reinforced this sentiment, saying, “We encourage a sense of ownership and pride in being part of the LIS community.” This powerful message resonated with the newcomers, leaving them inspired to contribute to the profession’s growth and evolution.

A Stronger, United LIS Community

Ms. Nchemba closed the session by reaffirming the mission and vision of LIAZ — to promote professional development and excellence through advocacy, training, research, and networking. She reminded the first-timers of the values that drive the association, including innovation, inclusiveness, and collaboration.

As the floor opened for questions and comments, the excitement in the room was palpable. The first-comers’ session had not only provided the newcomers with the practical tools and knowledge they needed but also inspired a sense of ownership and pride in being part of the LIS community.

Welcome to LIAZ!

Zambia Commemorates 2024 National Library Week

By Matildah Mercy Muchinga 

National Library Week Match Past-Ministry of  Education HQ 

The Zambian government,  Ministry of Education through Zambia Library Service (ZLS), collaborated with the Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) to organize the 2024 National Library Week Symposium from June 18-19 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lusaka under the theme: Library Development, Influence and the Future. 

The Honorable Minister of Education, Mr. Douglas Syakalima, was the Guest of Honor at the 2024 National Library Week Symposium, where he emphasized the government's commitment to supporting libraries and their role in promoting education, research, and national development.

Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary-Mr. Joel Kamoko

In the speech delivered on his behalf by Ministry of Education's Permanent Secretary for Education Services, Mr. Joel Kamoko. Mr. Syakalima stated that the government recognizes libraries as key factors in supporting teaching, learning, and achieving national development goals. He highlighted that the ministry has directed all schools to have a functional library or converted classroom library managed by a qualified librarian.

The Minister of Education, Mr. Syakalima, highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the Zambian government to support libraries which include the following; 

1. The Ministry, through the Zambia Library Service, distributed 26,740 books to schools, public libraries, and medical training institutions last year.  

2. The Zambia Library Service trained 87 librarians and teacher librarians from all 10 provinces on school library management, with the training conducted in Chongwe and Kapiri Mposhi. 

3. The Ministry collaborated with Book Aid International to refurbish and restock the children's sections in the public libraries of Kabwe, Mbala, and Mporokoso under the Children's Corners Project. 

4. The Ministry has developed a National Digital Library, an electronic platform that will soon be launched to provide a dynamic collection of educational resources for learners, students, teachers, and the general public. 

5. The Ministry has made progress in developing the National Library Policy, which will soon be unveiled to stakeholders before being submitted to Cabinet.

6. The Ministry is currently conducting a staff audit exercise across all provinces to normalize the positions of librarians on the payroll.

These initiatives demonstrate the government's commitment to supporting libraries and improving access to educational resources across Zambia.

Mr. Kepi Madumo-National Librarian and CEO 

Mr. Kepi Madumo, the National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of South Africa-Keynote Speaker

Mr. Kepi Madumo, the National Librarian and CEO of the National Library of South Africa, was the keynote speaker at the National Library Week Symposium. In his address, Mr. Madumo emphasized that the symposium's theme is both timely and crucial, highlighting the transformative impact and essential role that libraries play in national and continental development.

Mr. Madumo noted that libraries are part of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) SDG Stories map, showcasing their contributions to sustainable development. Specifically, he stated that libraries support various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Mr. Madumo further shared insights into how the National Library of South Africa (NLSA) manages its library services. He stated that the NLSA's journey has been characterized by perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to preserving the past while shaping the future.

In his conclusion, Mr. Madumo stated that the history of the South African National Library (NLSA) is a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and the vital role that libraries play in the life of a nation. Mr. Madumo emphasized that libraries must continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of societies. This involves embracing new technologies, expanding digital services, and developing innovative programs that respond to emerging challenges. 

Director Zambia Library Service-Mrs Sharon Munshya Liato

Mrs. Sharon Munshya Liato Assistant Director- Zambia Library Service 

In her speech, Mrs. Sharon Munshya Liato, the Assistant Director of the Zambia Library Service, urged everyone to envision the future of libraries as vibrant centers of knowledge, inclusion, and empowerment, where they can come together to shape a brighter future.

Mrs. Liato emphasized the importance of this symposium in reflecting on the pivotal role of libraries and envisioning their continued evolution in serving the needs of the nation. Her remarks underscored the need for collaborative efforts and a shared vision to position libraries as transformative institutions that foster learning, discovery, and cultural exchange. Mrs. Liato’s call to action challenged the attendees to actively engage in the discussions and work towards a future where libraries are hubs of knowledge, inclusion, and empowerment, shaping a brighter path for their communities and the nation as a whole.

LIAZ President-Mrs Mutinta Nabuyanda

Mrs. Mutinta Nabuyanda LIAZ President 

In her address, Mrs. Mutinta Nabuyanda, the LIAZ President, revealed that LIAZ  expresses gratitude to the Government for acknowledging the crucial role of libraries and information centers in our communities. The establishment of public libraries in Nakonde and Kasempa among others, funded by the Constituency Development Funds (CDF), showcases the government’s dedication to empowering communities with information. 

Mrs. Nabuyanda further revealed that LIAZ has been engaging in professional development workshops, webinars, and trainings to ensure that its members are well equipped for efficient service delivery as well as making sure that libraries and information centres remain relevant and accessible in the current digital age.

National Library Week Symposium Delegates 

2024 LIAZ Annual General Conference

The Library and Information Association of Zambia (LIAZ) will be hosting its 51st Annual General Conference (AGC) from August 20-23, 2024 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia. The conference theme is "Charting New Frontiers: Redefining Information Management in the Digital Era".

As part of the event, LIAZ will hold its inaugural Awards and Gala Dinner at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort, which all conference delegates are invited to attend.

Interested exhibitors should contact the LIAZ secretariat for more information.

 For personalized invitations and additional details, individuals can reach out to LIAZ on WhatsApp at +260 979 805 780 or by email at liaz@zambia.co.zm

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”.

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.