SAfA & 2027 Edition
The Society of Africanist Archaeologists (SAfA) is an international organization bringing together researchers since 1970. In 2027, for the first time, its meetings take place in Côte d'Ivoire, at Abidjan.
The Society of Africanist Archaeologists (SAfA)
Founded in the early 1970s, SAfA brings together specialists from across the globe to promote research on the African past and support young scholars.
Missions & Objectives of SAfA
Research & Exchanges
Foster fundamental and applied archaeological research across the African continent.
Support for Young Scholars
Provide conference access and funding for early-career African scholars.
Publication & Heritage
Publish bulletins and advocate for the preservation of African cultural heritage.
Global Network
Build lasting partnerships between African institutions and universities worldwide.
“Humanity in Traces: several million years of history between materials, memories and territories”
- 01
Materials
Materials — bone, stone, clay, metal, glass, textile — bear witness to cultural choices since Prehistory.
- 02
Memories
Memories question transmissions: oral traditions, archives, intangible heritage and museum collections.
- 03
Territories
Territories explore relations between the societies and spaces: mobility, borders and landscapes.
History of SAfA Biennial Meetings
For over 50 years, SAfA conferences have rotated across Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Côte d'Ivoire Heritage
Discover the cultural, historical and natural riches of the SAfA 2027 host country.
Man Waterfall
Natural mountainous region jewel, cascading into lush tropical vegetation.
Mermaid Bay, Grand Béréby
Fine-sand beach lined with palm trees and traditional bungalows on the southwestern Ivorian coast. A preserved natural haven between sea and forest.
5th Alassane Ouattara Bridge
Spectacular cable-stayed bridge in Abidjan, symbol of modern Ivorian urban infrastructure.
Doumbala Metallurgical Site
Major archaeological iron smelting and metallurgical site in the Folon region (North-West Côte d'Ivoire), showcasing ancient ironworking traditions.
Museum of Civilizations
Houses rich archaeological and ethnographic collections tracing Ivorian history.
Mosque of Kong
17th-century Sudano-Sahelian architectural masterpiece in northern Côte d'Ivoire.
Plateau District
Historic and administrative heart of Abidjan, blending colonial and modern architecture.
National Costume Museum
Tracing traditional and ceremonial Ivorian clothing evolution in Grand-Bassam.
Practical Info & Logistics
Visa
A visa is required for most visitors. Online application (e-visa) is available.
Accommodation
Abidjan offers a wide range of accommodation. Negotiated rates will be shared soon.
Transport
Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport serves many world capitals.
Health
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all visitors.
Climate
July-August: humid season, temperatures between 24–32°C. Pack light clothing and an umbrella.
Currency
CFA franc (XOF). Credit cards accepted in major establishments. ATMs available.
Prof Kiénon-Kaboré Timpoko Hélène
📞 +225 07 47 59 89 59
✉️ coordinationgenerale@safa2027abidjan.com
Dre Touré Gninin Aïcha
📞 +225 07 59 95 46 92
✉️ coordinationgenerale@safa2027abidjan.com
Steering Committee & General Coordination
Prof KIÉNON-KABORÉ Timpoko Hélène
📞 +225 07 47 59 89 59
✉️ coordinationgenerale@safa2027abidjan.com
Dre Touré Gninin Aïcha
📞 +225 07 59 95 46 92
✉️ coordinationgenerale@safa2027abidjan.com
Secretariat
Prof Nogbou M'Domou Eric
📞 +225 07 07 29 26 07
✉️ secretariat@safa2027abidjan.com
Dr ZADI née LEBATO Toh Laetitia Edith
📞 +225 07 89 07 40 41
✉️ secretariat@safa2027abidjan.com
Dr TIÉ BI Galla Guy-Roland
📞 +225 07 09 61 06 02
✉️ secretariat@safa2027abidjan.com
Scientific Committee & Academic Programme
Prof Kouassi Kouakou Siméon
📞 +225 07 58 85 87 08
✉️ comite.scientifique@safa2027abidjan.com
Dr Bouadi Kouadio René
📞 +225 01 51 69 94 46 / +225 07 59 92 92 78
✉️ comite.scientifique@safa2027abidjan.com
Dr Yéo Arouna
📞 +225 07 08 98 32 33
✉️ comite.scientifique@safa2027abidjan.com