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ESARBICA Conference 2025
• Welcome Message:
Welcome to the official website of the ESARBICA Conference 2025, hosted in Zimbabwe from 15th to 21st June 2025. This conference will bring together archival professionals, researchers, and institutions from across Eastern and Southern Africa to share knowledge, address challenges, and shape the future of archives and records management. Stay tuned for exciting updates and important conference details.
Conference Highlights
- Opening ceremony with cultural performances
- Keynote addresses from international archival experts
- Over 50 parallel sessions covering current topics
- Hands-on workshops on digital preservation
- Exhibition showcasing archival innovations
- Gala dinner at the iconic Victoria Falls
Quick Links
- Register Now - Early bird discounts available until March 31, 2025
- Program Schedule - View the preliminary program
- Accommodation Options - Special rates for delegates
- Venue Information - About the conference location
- FAQs - Find answers to common questions
- Zimbabwean eVisa Application
About Us
History of ESARBICA
ESARBICA was established in 1969 as a regional branch of the International Council on Archives (ICA). The first conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya in 1972. Since then, ESARBICA has grown to include 13 member countries and holds biennial conferences that rotate among member states.
History of ESARBICA The history of ESARBICA dates back to the early 1970s, when it became apparent that the need for a formalized body to represent archival interests in Eastern and Southern Africa was essential. The first ESARBICA Conference was held in 1977 to foster collaboration between member states, providing professional development, and addressing the region's unique archival challenges. Since then, ESARBICA has continued to play an integral role in advancing the field of records management and archives within Africa and on the global stage. ESARBICA's creation was crucial to ensuring that the continent's history and cultural heritage were properly preserved for future generations.
- providing a forum for the exchange of professional ideals and expertise in the administration and preservation of archives and records;
- promoting, organising and co-ordinating activities in the management of records and archives at both regional and international levels;
- establishing, maintaining and strengthening relations between archivists in the ESARBICA region and other professionals and institutions concerned with the administration and preservation of records and archives;
- carrying out the aims and objectives of the International Council on Archives;
- facilitating continuing education through professional attachments, study visits, seminars and workshops; and
- providing technical and financial assistance to members whenever possible
- promoting the implementation of the professional code of conduct (code of ethics).
Key milestones:
- 1969 - Establishment of ESARBICA
- 1972 - First conference in Nairobi
- 1995 - Adoption of revised constitution
- 2003 - Launch of professional training program
- 2018 - Digital preservation initiative launched
Mission
To ensure the advancement of archives and records management in ESARBICA through collaboration and co-operation, consistent with the objectives of the International Council on Archives (ICA).
Vision
To be a leader and centre of excellence in archival and records management in the 21st Century and beyond.
Objectives
- providing a forum for the exchange of professional ideals and expertise in the administration and preservation of archives and records;
- promoting, organising and co-coordinating activities in the management of records and archives at both regional and international levels;
- establishing, maintaining and strengthening relations between archivists in the ESARBICA region and other professionals and institutions concerned with the administration and preservation of records and archives;
- carrying out the aims and objectives of the International Council on Archives;
- facilitating continuing education through professional attachments, study visits, seminars and workshops;
- providing technical and financial assistance to members whenever possible;
- promoting the implementation of the professional code of conduct (code of ethics).
ESARBICA Constitution
The ESARBICA constitution sets out the framework for the operations of the organization. It outlines the objectives of fostering professional development, encouraging international cooperation, and ensuring the proper preservation and management of historical and governmental records.
Conference 2025
The ESARBICA Conference 2025 will be hosted in Zimbabwe from 15th to 21st June 2025. This conference aims to address the most pressing issues in archives and records management, including digital preservation, capacity building, and sustainable archival practices in the context of modern challenges.
"Preserving Africa’s Heritage: Innovations in Archiving and Records Management". This theme will explore emerging trends, technologies, and regional strategies to safeguard Africa's rich historical and cultural records.
Board Members
President
Mr Puleng KekanaDirector General, National Archives of South Africa
Pulengk@dsac.gov.za
Vice President
Mr Francis MwangiKenya National Archives and Documentation Service,
mwangithua@gmail.com
Secretary General
Ms Brenda MamvuraDirector, National Archives of Zimbabwe
brenamamvura@gmail.com
Deputy Secretary General
Advocate Dennis MaakeSouth Africa
dennism@dsac.gov.za
Treasurer
Mt Gopolang MaakweDeputy Director
Botswana National Archives and Records Services
Journal Editor
Dr Segomotso KeakopaBotswana
keakopas@gmail.com
Deputy Journal Editor
Dr Mehluli MasukuSorbonne University Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
mehlulimasuku1@gmail.com
Partners
We gratefully acknowledge our partners:
Institutional Partners
-
International Council on Archives (ICA)
-
UNESCO
-
African Studies Association
Corporate Sponsors
- Archive Solutions Ltd.
- Digital Preservation Africa
- Heritage Conservation Trust
Conference Services
We offer comprehensive services to ensure your participation in the conference is productive and enjoyable.
Registration
Registration for ESARBICA 2025 is now open. Choose from the following options:
Registration Fees
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Members | $200 |
| Non-Member | $250 |
| Exhibitors | $250 |
| Students | $100 |
Contact our help desk for group registration discounts.
Accommodation
available Accommodation options
Recommended Hotels
Transportation
Victoria Falls is accessible via:
By Air
- Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) with direct flights from Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa
- Harare International Airport (HRE) with connecting flights to Victoria Falls
Ground Transportation
- Airport transfers available for registered delegates
- Shuttle service between conference hotels and venue
- Taxi services available throughout the town
Visa Assistance
Zimbabwe offers visa-on-arrival for most nationalities. However, we recommend checking requirements in advance.
Visa Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Proof of conference registration
- Return flight ticket
- Visa fee: $30-$50 depending on nationality
Kindly Visit the Zimbabwean eVISA platform, for VISA application.
Zimbabwean eVisaConference Facilities
The conference will be held at the Victoria Falls Convention Centre, featuring:
- Main plenary hall with 500-seat capacity
- 6 breakout rooms for parallel sessions
- Exhibition area with 50 booths
- Business center with printing and internet access
- Prayer room and nursing mothers' room
- Fully accessible facilities for persons with disabilities
Conference Blog
Stay updated with the latest news and insights about ESARBICA 2025.
Latest Posts
Call for Volunteers
The organizing committee invites students and young professionals to volunteer at the conference...
Featured Articles
Journals
Journals from the past
Newsroom Media
Resources for journalists and media professionals covering the conference.
Newsletter
ESABICA final SPECIAL ISSUE JUNE 2019Press Releases
ESARBICA 2025 Announces Conference Theme
The organizing committee has announced "Archives Without Borders" as the official theme...
Zimbabwe to Host Prestigious Archives Conference
Victoria Falls will welcome over 500 archival professionals from across Africa and beyond...
Media Gallery
Conference Program
The preliminary program for ESARBICA 2025 is now available.
Organizers
The 2025 conference is organized by:
- ESARBICA Executive Board - The governing body of the regional branch
- National Archives of Zimbabwe - Our host institution
- Local Organizing Committee - Comprising professionals from Zimbabwe's archival community
Conference Schedule
June 16 - 21 June, 2025
- Day 1: Opening Ceremony & Keynote Address
- Day 2-3: Workshops on Digital Archives, Record Management Best Practices
- Day 4-5: Panel Discussions and Networking Sessions
- Day 6: Field Visits to Zimbabwe’s National Archives & Historical Sites
- Day 7: Closing Ceremony and Future Directions for Archives in Africa
Get Involved
We encourage archives professionals, students, and enthusiasts from all backgrounds to join us in Zimbabwe for this exciting event. Stay tuned for more details about registration, speakers, and special events related to the ESARBICA Conference 2025.