These are rapidly changing times for biodiversity and society in Africa, with the increasing influence of globalization, and growing rate and scale of land conversion, impacting wildlife ecology and creating a greater need for conservation (Walther, 2016). The theme of the 14th Pan-African Ornithological Congress (PAOC), taking place in Dakar, Senegal, between the 16th and the 21st of October 2016, reflects this context: 'global changes or threats and opportunities for birds in Africa'. The PAOC has gained importance as a key platform for scientists, conservationists and birders - within Africa and beyond -for drawing attention to key conservation matters for proactive action.