Solange Laura Macamo

The Pan African Archaeological Association for Prehistory and the Related Studies (PAA) is a non-profit professional association with members from across the globe. PAA was formed in 1947 with the following aims, among others: (i) to bring together Cultural anthropologists, palaeanthropologists, and archaeologists from the African continent and beyond; (ii) to provide a forum for the exchange of information and ideas among members; (iii) to create and promote networks between students, researchers and practitioners across Africa in multiple disciplines; and (iv) to forge scholarly links and friendships that otherwise would not exist, hence, facilitate and promote inter-African academic collaboration. Since its formation, PAA has held meetings in different African countries every four years. Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo, Mozambique, has the distinction of hosting the 17th PAA Congress. This is the first time the PAA Congress will be hosted in a Portuguese-speaking country, hence, bridging the gap between Anglophone, Francophone, and Lusophone African countries.