Aloysius Senono Mwanje on Advancing Data Veracity in Academic Libraries at SCECSAL Conference

Aloysius Senono Mwanje

The upcoming XXVII SCECSAL Conference will bring together leading voices in library and information science across Africa. Among the emerging scholars to watch is Aloysius Senono Mwanje, a Ph.D. student in Information Science at the University at Buffalo, where he also serves as a Graduate Assistant supporting research and academic program initiatives.

At the conference, Aloysius will present a timely paper titled "Data Veracity as a Catalyst for Perceived Reliable Library Services Among Graduate Students." His work explores how the accuracy, trustworthiness, and integrity of data, collectively known as data veracity, shape users' confidence in library services. This focus speaks directly to the growing need for libraries to anchor their services in trustworthy, verifiable data, a need that resonates strongly with graduate students who rely on academic libraries as cornerstones of their scholarly work.

His research interests span data quality, big data analytics, and data accessibility, with particular emphasis on how data documentation practices support data veracity, access and use in big data environments, ultimately enhancing the credibility and usability of library services. Underpinning all of this is a broader goal of improving data documentation and ensuring equitable access to research data.

Originally from Kampala, Uganda, Aloysius brings a global and inclusive perspective to his research, with academic goals that include developing data-driven interventions to support marginalized communities and expand equitable access to knowledge resources.

As libraries continue to evolve into data-rich, digitally mediated environments, his work underscores a critical message: reliable services depend not only on access, but on the quality and trustworthiness of the data behind them.

Don't miss Aloysius' presentation. Register now for the XXVII SCECSAL Conference.

Julia Gelfand at the SCECSAL Conference Panel on Library Partnerships

Julia Gelfand

On 28 April, the XXVII SCECSAL conference in Livingstone, Zambia, will feature a respected voice in global librarianship - Julia Gelfand formerly of the University of California, Irvine Libraries. She will join a high-level expert panel on “Building Partnerships for Sustainable Library and Information Services.”

With more than four decades of experience in academic and research librarianship, Julia recently retired from UC Irvine as Applied Sciences & Engineering Librarian and was conferred Distinguished Emerita status in recognition of her outstanding career. She remains active professionally and globally and is engaged in the global library community through organizations such as the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), American Library Association (ALA), Society for Scholarly Publishing (SSP), the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE), International Association of University Libraries (IATUL). 

In 2026, Gelfand is serving as a Fulbright Scholar at Botswana International University of Science and Technology Libraries, where she is contributing to a range of forward-looking initiatives. Her work spans collections development, scholarly communication, library outreach and marketing, and the application of artificial intelligence in libraries, areas that are rapidly reshaping the global information landscape. Her current engagement in Africa reflects a strong commitment to capacity development and international collaboration. 

 Her participation in the SCECSAL panel comes at a critical moment for African libraries. As institutions navigate digital transformation, open knowledge systems, and evolving user needs, the role of strategic partnerships has never been more important. The session will explore how collaborations with governments, development agencies, NGOs, communities, and the private sector can transform libraries into engines of sustainable development. 

With her extensive global experience and current work on the continent, Julia brings both expertise and inspiration to this important conversation, highlighting the power of partnerships to shape the future of library and information services in Africa. She looks forward to meeting and engaging with you at the conference. Visit and regsiter at the conference website: https://conference.scecsal.org/

Prof. Peter Gatiti to speak at XXVII SCECSAL Conference in Livingstone

Prof. Peter Gatiti

As the XXVII SCECSAL Conference (27 April – 1 May 2026) at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia, fast approaches, one of the standout voices to watch is Prof. Peter Gatiti,  a scholar and LIS professional whose career bridges continents and disciplines in the most compelling way.

Prof. Gatiti serves as Associate Vice-Provost and University Librarian at Aga Khan University (AKU), overseeing a network of 12 libraries across six countries, including Pakistan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the UK. He holds a PhD in Information Systems from the University of Bolton, an MSc in Information Systems from Leeds Metropolitan University, and a Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Studies from Loughborough University.

His academic journey has been further enriched and strengthened through high-level professional training. He is a fellow of the Mortenson Center for International Library Programs at the University of Illinois and has trained at the Leadership Institute for Academic Librarians at Harvard Graduate School of Education, as well as at the Summer School on Bibliometrics and Research Impact at Western University in Canada.

Prof. Gatiti's research spans digital libraries, health informatics, knowledge management, bibliometrics, and scholarly communication. Notably, he was leading a team of researchers from Aga Khan University in implementing a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights repository, a project funded by WHO, a testament to the real-world impact of his work.

As a prominent voice in the profession, Prof. Gatiti has noted that the global trend now heavily favours electronic resources over printed materials, necessitating librarians to significantly expand their skill sets into data science and information management.

Beyond research, Prof. Gatiti serves as Chairperson of the Kenya Library Association (KLA) and as a standing committee member of IFLA's Statistics and Evaluation Section, connecting African librarianship to the global stage.

At the conference in Livingstone, he will present on “Copyright Competencies of Academic Librarians in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review,” a timely contribution as institutions across the continent navigate digital access, intellectual property, and open knowledge in an ever-changing information environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Register today and join more than 400 delegates at a conference that will serve as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration for LIS professionals.

Don't miss the opportunity to engage with Prof. Gatiti.

Visit the conference website at - https://conference.scecsal.org/

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.

Call for nominations: SCECSAL Excellence Awards 2026

The SCECSAL Secretariat is pleased to announce the opening of nominations for the SCECSAL Excellence Awards 2026. These awards recognise individuals and institutions that have demonstrated outstanding commitment, leadership and impact on the advancement of the library, information and knowledge sector in the SCECSAL region.

The awards recognise outstanding achievements in several categories:

• SCECSAL Excellence Award: Distinguished Service (Individual and Institution)
• SCECSAL Excellence Award: Leadership (individual)
• SCECSAL Excellence Award: Knowledge Creation and Exchange (Individual)
• SCECSAL Excellence Award: Capacity Development (Individual & Institution)
• SCECSAL Excellence Award: Innovation (Individual & Institution)
• SCECSAL Young LIS Professional Award

The awards will be presented during the SCECSAL Cultural Evening in April 2026 in Livingstone, Zambia.

Nominations must be submitted through SCECSAL member associations no later than 19 December 2025 at 10:00 GMT.

Call for papers is now open for SCECSAL 2026!

The 2026 SCECSAL Organizing Committee (SOC) has announced the Call for Papers for the 27th Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL), set to take place from 27 April to 1 May 2026 at the Avani Victoria Falls Resort in Livingstone, Zambia.

Conference theme

“African Libraries and Information Services at the New Crossroads”

This theme reflects a pivotal moment for libraries and information professionals in Africa, as they navigate digital innovation, ongoing transformation, and the pursuit of continued relevance in an ever-changing digital environment. 

Sub-themes include:

• Information services for sustainable development
• Innovation in library and information service delivery
• Empowering librarians, information professionals, and users
• Partnerships in library and information services development
• Data, privacy, and information security in libraries
• Artificial Intelligence and libraries
• Strategic marketing of library and information services
• Digital technologies and the reading culture
• Open access and social justice
• Big data and innovative information services
• Empowering libraries and information institutions
• Policy, advocacy, and legal environments for sustainable libraries

Whether you're a library and information professional, researcher, academic, policy maker, or technology innovator, this is your platform to share experiences, present research, and help shape the future of our profession.

Mark your calendar!

• Venue: Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Livingstone, Zambia
• Dates: 27 April – 1 May 2026

And yes! Just steps away from the majestic Victoria Falls! It's more than a conference - it’s a once-in-a-lifetime blend of professional engagement and natural wonder.

Submission guidelines

All Abstracts must be submitted through the Microsoft Conference Management Toolkit (CMT). Note: Submissions sent through any other channels will not be accepted.

Download the Call for Papers for full details on the Conference Theme, Sub-Themes, and Key Dates. 

Why attend?

Besides the rich professional programme, the location itself is a huge bonus. Livingstone is home to Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, and so you’ll get the best of both worlds: meaningful professional engagement and an unforgettable travel experience.

Contact information

For questions related to abstracts and papers, please contact:

Dr. Tuesday Bwalya - tbwalya@liaz.edu.zm

General inquiries: scecsal@liaz.edu.zm | secretariat@scecsal.org