BY NOKUPHILA NXUMALO (INTERN)
MBABANE– Eswatini has secured the opportunity to host the 28th Standing Conference of Eastern, Central and Southern African Library and Information Associations (SCECSAL) in 2028, marking a major milestone for the country’s knowledge and information sector.
The announcement was made during the ongoing SCECSAL conference in Livingstone, Zambia, where the Eswatini Library and Information Association presented a compelling bid showcasing the country’s readiness to host the prestigious regional event.
Speaking during the announcement, Nomsa Mathabela highlighted Eswatini’s strong track record within the SCECSAL community, noting that the country previously hosted successful conferences in 1988 and 2016. As President of the Eswatini Library and Information Association, she emphasised that the upcoming event will build on this legacy while introducing new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
She said the country is prepared to deliver a high-quality conference that will bring together library and information professionals from across Africa and beyond, creating a platform for knowledge exchange and professional growth.
The 2028 conference is expected to take place in the Ezulwini Valley, a location renowned for its scenic beauty and modern conference facilities. The setting is anticipated to offer delegates a unique experience that blends professional engagement with Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage.
The programme will focus on key issues shaping the future of library and information services, including digital transformation, artificial intelligence, open access and capacity building. These themes are expected to support the advancement of libraries as essential drivers of education, research and development across the continent.
The Eswatini Library and Information Association reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a conference that promotes innovation, strengthens partnerships and enhances the role of information services in Africa’s development agenda.
SCECSAL remains one of Africa’s longest-running platforms for library and information professionals, providing an important space for networking, collaboration and the sharing of best practices.
Hosting the 2028 conference is expected to boost Eswatini’s profile as a destination for international events while contributing to the growth of the country’s knowledge economy and professional sectors.
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(Courtesy Pic)
