The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Division Committee (IFLA SSA RDC) Launches the In-Country Library Advocacy Co-Design Team that aimed at leading change for libraries in the region. This initiative is part of the IFLA SSA’s global advocacy priorities that identifies and addresses core library advocacy issues specific to various African countries.

Onboarding Session in Country Library Advocacy Co-Design Team

The team which comprises library leaders from Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, and Uganda will develop and implement advocacy priorities, strategies, and activities that address library issues specific to different African countries.

12 Sub-Saharan African Countries - Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda

This will include facilitating capacity development and empowering in-country library stakeholders to lead and take ownership of advocacy activities peculiar to their country narratives. The team will also work to strengthen library institutions and associations inter-governmental and inter-stakeholder relationships.

Key insights on SDGs and VNR - develop a plan to identify how libraries can contribute towards achieving the SDGs and engage in the VNR process

The co-design team’s strategic focus will be on the Voluntary National Reviews and the Sustainable Development Plans (SDGs and Agenda 2063). They will also work to develop the capacity of in-country library stakeholders to address advocacy priorities based on the IFLA Global Vision and Regional Advocacy Priorities Study.

Key insights on library advocacy - establish a dedicated advocacy team within the library or association

The launch of the In-Country Library Advocacy Co-Design Team represents an important step towards leading change for libraries in the Sub-Saharan African region. By empowering in-country library stakeholders and developing targeted advocacy strategies, the team will work to strengthen the voice of libraries and promote their essential role in achieving sustainable development goals and the African Union Agenda 2063.