Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve,Victoria Falls Reporter
MORE than 500 delegates drawn from 10 African countries have convened in Victoria Falls for the 28th edition of the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives (ESARBICA) 2025 Conference.
The conference, which commenced on Monday, is set to shape the future of archival science in Africa.
Hosted by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage’s National Archives of Zimbabwe together with the International Council of Archives (ICA), the conference is being held under the theme: “Archives Are Accessible – Archives for Everyone.”
Running from 16 to 20 June, the event has brought together archivists, researchers, policymakers, and technology experts from across the Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives to explore innovative strategies for enhancing archival accessibility and preservation.
The pre-conference workshop on Monday focused on Disaster and Risk Reduction Strategies in Libraries and Archives, with Dr Thatayaone Segaetsho from the University of Botswana set to speak on the urgent need to address climate change threats to archival collections.
Tuesday’s sessions will delve into the Application of ICTs in Records Management, led by Dr Segomotso Keakopa, who is expected to speak on automation and digitisation as key tools for modernising archival practices.
The main conference will be officially opened on Wednesday with a high-profile ceremony to be attended by President Mnangagwa, Vice Presidents, Ministers, and international delegates. President Mnangagwa will deliver the keynote address.
Presentations throughout the week will cover diverse topics, including artificial intelligence in archives, community participation, and sustainable preservation methods.
Notable sessions include a discussion on Cloud-Based Digital Preservation by Dr Amos Bishi and a panel on AI and Ethical Archiving by Prof Lekoko Kenosi.
@nyeve14
