Melba Mabuku-Sitwala

• University librarian at the International University of Management (IUM), Namibia
• President of the National Information Workers Association of Namibia (NIWAN)

“The future of African librarianship is in capable hands..."

Melba Mabuku-Sitwala reflects in our Facilitator Spotlight interview. Her passion and drive to empower emerging professionals and contribute to the future of African librarianship shine through as she shares her experience and motivation.

Tell us about yourself and what you currently do.

I am a passionate and purpose-driven librarian who is deeply committed to advancing the library and information profession. I believe in the transformative power of information, knowledge, and lifelong learning, and I aspire to contribute meaningfully to the development of our profession while helping to build the Africa we envision.

I currently serve as the university librarian at the International University of Management (IUM) in Namibia. In addition, I have the privilege of serving as the President of the National Information Workers Association of Namibia (NIWAN).

What are your professional interests?

My professional interests include knowledge management, open science, information literacy, understanding the information needs & information-seeking behaviors of library users, sustainable development goals, and strengthening access to information. I am passionate about creating opportunities that empower information professionals and ensure that libraries remain relevant contributors to education, research, and sustainable development.

What motivated you to share your knowledge and experience with emerging library leaders across Africa?

I do not desire to see anyone go through the experience I had of figuring it out on my own on how to navigate through this profession effectively, and so I have made it a mandate to uplift and inspire the next emerging library leaders across Africa.

What has been your experience interacting with YALLF fellows so far, and what message or advice would you like to share with the next generation of African library leaders?

Interacting with the 2026 YALLF Fellows has been one of the most enriching experiences of my professional journey. It has been inspiring to engage with passionate, innovative, and visionary young library leaders from across Africa who share a common commitment to transforming our profession. Despite our diverse backgrounds and institutional contexts, we are united by a shared purpose of advancing access to knowledge, strengthening libraries, and empowering our communities.

What has impressed me the most is the willingness of the fellows to collaborate, openly share ideas, and learn from one another. The interactions have reminded me that some of the most impactful solutions emerge when we work together, exchange experiences, and embrace the diversity of perspectives that exists across the continent. This platform has definitely expanded my professional network and reinforced my belief that the future of African libraries lies in collaboration rather than working in isolation.

To the next generation of African library leaders, my message is simple: Firstly, I want to remind you that your DREAMS are still VALID. Believe in your ability to make a difference, no matter the position you hold. Never underestimate the impact that one committed information professional can have on a department, an institution, a community, or even an entire profession. Be curious, continue learning, embrace innovation, and remain adaptable as our profession continues to evolve.

Most importantly, lead with integrity, humility, and purpose. So be INTENTIONAL! Do not wait for opportunities to come to you but rather create them yourself. Invest in meaningful partnerships, support one another, and never lose sight of the fact that libraries are not merely repositories of information; they are catalysts for education, research, innovation, and sustainable development.

The future of African librarianship is in capable hands. Let us continue to dream boldly, collaborate intentionally, and work together to build resilient, inclusive, and future-ready libraries that will transform lives across our continent.