CIMAM Annual Conference Harare 2026-Museum Restitution & Heritage Repair
CITY / COUNTRY: HARARE, ZIMBABWE.
Date: 11/20-22/2026.
CIMAM Annual Conference Harare 2026-Museum Restitution & Heritage Repair.
“Museum Restitution, Cultural Heritage Recovery and Rebuilding Historical Narratives”.
The CIMAM Annual Conference Harare 2026 explores the role of museums in addressing historical injustices through restitution, heritage preservation and cultural repair. The conference brings together museum professionals, researchers, curators and cultural leaders to discuss the return of cultural objects to their communities of origin. It also examines how museums can promote inclusive historical narratives, strengthen cultural identity and support international cooperation in heritage protection.
Historical Context: The restitution of cultural objects has become an important global discussion, particularly concerning artefacts removed from African communities during colonial rule. Many objects remain in museums and private collections outside their countries of origin. These collections raise questions about ownership, historical justice and cultural identity. Across Africa, museums and cultural institutions continue to advocate for the return of heritage objects and the recognition of communities’ historical rights. The conference places these debates within broader efforts to repair historical harm and strengthen cultural heritage protection.
Organiser:
- International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art (CIMAM);
- National Gallery of Zimbabwe.