Round Table Central Africa

Central Africa, a region known for its rich cultural diversity, vast natural resources, and strong sense of community, was home to The Association of Round Tables in Central Africa (ARTCA), a unique and influential presence within the Round Table movement. Formed in 1952, ARTCA served as an umbrella body for local Round Table associations, fostering cross-border collaboration and a shared commitment to service. Unlike many national Round Tables that operated within a single country, ARTCA united multiple nations, creating a dynamic and interconnected network that was rare within the movement.

Throughout its existence, ARTCA played a significant role in bringing together young professionals and philanthropists, promoting pan-African unity, leadership development, and impactful community service. The association was affiliated with Round Table International and strengthened ties between members from diverse backgrounds, making it a key driver of Round Table’s presence in the region.

Over time, ARTCA evolved to better align with regional needs and organizational restructuring. It was eventually replaced by three independent associations—Round Table Botswana, Round Table Zimbabwe, and Round Table Malawi—each carrying forward the legacy of service, leadership, and camaraderie that ARTCA had long fostered in Central Africa.

History

Association of Round Tables in Central Africa was an Association located in Rhodesia (later becoming Zimbabwe) and Swaziland, as well as Botswana and Malawi.

UIA.org reports that a formal organisation was founded on 10 Dec 1952 in Salisbury, Rhodesia (today known as Harare, Zimbabwe), within the framework of Round Table International (RTI), with the original title: Association of Round Tables in Central Africa (ARTCA). [1]

 

Disambiguation

The actual year of charter is unclear.
UIA.org reports that it was founded on 10 Dec 1952. This is the most precise date and most likely.
In 1991, Round Table International reported that ARTCA was founded in 1953.
The 1986 stamps issued in Swaziland commemorate “50 Years of Service to the Nation”, hinting at a type of foundation in 1936.

Structure

General Assembly. Council, comprising President, Vice-President, Immediate Past President, Honorary Treasurer and Secretary and Area Association Chairmen (Botswana, Malawi, Zimbabwe).

Rondel

The rondel for the Association of Round Table in Central Africa featured a Djembe, a type of drum, originally from West Africa.

Previous versions:

A former rondel for ARTCA, featuring a Rhodesian Bird. This inspired the rondel for a future Round Table Zimbabwe.

Additional Background

Rhodesia & Nyasaland Postage Stamps

In 1963,  Rhodesia and Nyasaland issues a set of pre-decimal stamps,  (SC# 189–190) — ” featuring Queen Elizabeth II, and “World Council of Young Men’s Service Clubs 1963” on the top. The Round Table rondel features a Rhodesian Bird.

Swaziland Postage Stamps

In 1986, Swaziland issued a series of stamps to commemorate “50 Years of Service to the Nation”. The stamps feature “The Association of Round Tables in Central Africa” at the top. Four of the stamps feature the name and logo of four Tables:

• • Manzini 44
  • Bulembu 54
  • Mbabane 30
  • Ehlanzeni 51

The fifth stamp an ORBIS logo, with the text “Asibone Sonkhe Sight For All” on the side.

 

Merchandise

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Sources

[1] https://uia.org/s/or/en/1100053082