CAMDEN — Time to register for this year's Camden Conference: The New Africa. The Camden Conference program committee has assembled speakers to address this important topic. The conference is a great opportunity to learn more about what is still for many of us the "dark continent" in terms of our understanding. The speakers will focus on the "new" — what is changing, what is successful and the role of Africa in today's world.

Keynote speaker Ofeibea Quist-Arcton who is West African correspondent for NPR News will set the stage on Friday evening. Speakers represent many African countries including Ghana, Kenya, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Tanzania and are well positioned to discuss their world. Topics will include climate impacts, human rights, health, business growth, elections, economics, and more.

The Conference takes place Feb. 19-21 and seats are available at all four locations: live at the Camden Opera House and live-streamed to the Strand in Rockland, Hutchinson Center in Belfast and Lee Auditorium in Portland. The mission of the Camden Conference is to foster informed discourse on world issues. Visit the website camdenconference.org for more information on speakers, latest updates and to register.