Join us at the Australian National University for a public lecture by Associate Professor Alison Crowther, followed by a reception with drinks and nibbles. 

New archaeological evidence from the Comoros Archipelago reveals its pivotal role as a maritime crossroads linking East Africa, Madagascar, and the wider Indian Ocean. In this public lecture, Associate Professor Alison Crowther will unveil recent discoveries that rewrite our understanding of early human migration, globalization, and cross-cultural trade. By examining excavated material culture, ancient food crops, and archaeobotanical remains, she will demonstrate how these "stepping stone" islands facilitated early encounters between African and Island Southeast Asian populations. Discover how these deep-time connections shaped the vibrant history of the Swahili Coast and transformed the western Indian Ocean into a dynamic global highway.

The lecture will be free with the option to purchase a ticket for the catered reception in the venue foyer following the lecture.

Please come along to the reception for a chance to socialise with archaeologists, researchers and fellow community enthusiasts, celebrating archaeological science and food pasts and futures!