Interesting to come across new knowledge-related terms, for example the Semmelweis reflex or "Semmelweis effect". This is a metaphor for the reflex-like rejection of new knowledge because it contradicts entrenched norms, beliefs or paradigms. It refers to Ignaz Semmelweis, who discovered that child mortality rates could be reduced ten-fold if doctors would wash their hands (we would now say disinfect) with a chlorine solution. His hand-washing suggestions were rejected by his contemporaries.

KMAfrica.com has a rapidly expanding and current set of resources maintained by the individual SIGs. The resources consist of downloadable .pdf manuals, position papers and presentations by organisations and individuals considered reputable by KMAfrica SIG Information Channel providers. The SIG resources are avialable on http://isivivane.com/kmafrica/?q=resources

Topics of interest include Water, women's empowerment & gender, environment, climate change, food security, poverty alleviation, poverty reduction, KM in communications, biodiversity, Personal Knowledge Management, local government, service delivery, PSI (Public Sector Information), Innovation, municipal performance, gender among many others.

Here is a quick overview of just some of the topics being spoken about in the Fireside Chat SIG.

KMAfrica has a number of on-going projects that we've just updated on the formal projects list on http://isivivane.com/kmafrica/?q=KMAfrica.chapter.projects If you want to contribute in any way to these projects, please send us an email to info@kmafrica.com - we are particualrly excited about the KMAfrica eUniversity that is set to offer a Masters level certificate in KM to public servants and teachers throughout Africa in 2010.

It is now easier to invite your friends and colleagues to KMAfrica.com! As a logged in user, all you need do is click "Invite colleagues to KMAfrica.com" on the left hand side of the screen or alternatively paste http://isivivane.com/kmafrica/?q=invite into your browser. The system will automatically email your colleagues and track the workflow steps in the invitation..