Participants in the Catalyzing African Community Archives (CACA) project have emphasized the growing importance of safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems through community-driven archival practices.
The project, held at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (USA) in May 2025, brought together scholars, archivists, and cultural practitioners from across Africa and Europe to strengthen community engagement strategies and develop sustainable frameworks for preserving oral histories. Contributors to the initiative collaborated across borders, with team members from Kenya, Tunisia, Botswana, Scotland, the Netherlands, Ghana, and the University of Illinois.
A key outcome of the project was a comprehensive manual that guides the collection, preservation, and dissemination of oral histories. The manual aims to support libraries, archives, and heritage institutions that work with communities to document indigenous knowledge in culturally sensitive and sustainable ways.
The initiative benefited from the leadership and mentorship of Professor Christopher John Prom of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and Professor Clara Chu, whose guidance helped shape the project’s intellectual and practical direction. Collaboration was further strengthened through close engagement with Professor Abraham Mulow and Maureen Kenga, both of whom played significant roles in advancing community-centered approaches within the project.
As part of the broader CACA activities, a public discussion was held featuring two prominent speakers: Professor Christopher John Prom and Dr. Mrs. Margaret Sraku-Lartey of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Kumasi. The discussion highlighted the critical role of community archives and indigenous knowledge systems in preserving Africa’s cultural memory.
The speakers emphasized the roles of libraries, museums, and archives in safeguarding Ghana’s cultural heritage, particularly amid globalization and technological change. They also stressed the need for collaboration between academic institutions and local communities to ensure that knowledge preservation efforts remain inclusive and relevant.
Organizers noted that the discussions and outcomes of the Catalyzing African Community Archives project provide valuable insights for researchers, students, librarians, and heritage advocates. By centering community voices and lived experiences, the initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding indigenous knowledge and cultural narratives for future generations.
The project received institutional support, including backing from the Vice Chancellor of Accra Technical University, which enabled active participation and knowledge exchange.