The 2nd edition of the African Book Fair, organized by Soma Nami Books, was an outstanding success! The African Book Fair returned this year from August 6–11 at the McMillan Memorial Library in Nairobi, Kenya. Featuring over 10,000 books from across the continent, it’s no wonder people are already excited for next year’s Book Fair! 

This year the fair expanded in both size and scope, offering a new dynamic hybrid format which blended the traditional book fair, and a more invigorating festival atmosphere.

With more books than ever before, the fair featured specially curated sections dedicated to themes such as Feminism, African Canon, Liberation, and Children’s Literature, allowing focused exploration on these topics. 

Though the books were not limited to these subjects, attendees were able to explore any genre imaginable, from fiction to nonfiction, contemporary novels to classic works, poetry collections to prose, there was a book for even the most particular reader. The fair continued to promote both established writers and emerging talents, giving all writers a platform to showcase their works. The fair’s focus on fostering intra-African connections and trade was evident in its collaboration with publishers across Africa. Authors from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Nigeria were featured, reflecting the African Book Fair’s commitment to building a pan-African literary community.

The book fair also showcased 36 guests, local and international, who participated in various panels, discussions, and activities. The fair featured six powerful panel discussions that tackled a wide variety of subjects such as: healing in community, reframing historical narratives, building literary communities, inter-generational conflicts, the creative economy, and the intersection of masculinity and mental health. 

Ugandan author and human rights advocate Jackie Asiimwe and Kenyan writer Tiffany Mug were spotlighted in their two book chats, in which they offered insights into their writing process, their personal journeys as authors, and common themes their works depict.

A masterclass on building thriving book clubs, was featured by Soma Nami Books founders Muthoni and Wendy. They resonated with the fair’s broader goal of nurturing a culture of reading and discussion by offering practical insights and strategies in order to foster vibrant literary communities.

The Fairs opening ceremony was graced by Nairobi County’s Chief Officer for Youth, Talent, and Sports, Mr. Oscar Igaida. He reaffirmed his, and the governments,  commitment to making literature accessible to all Nairobi residents. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to foster reading and learning across the city, resonating with the fair’s mission to promote African literary communities.

Other activities at the Fair included a Quiz night focused on African literary trivia, a dance party, and multiple events geared to children such as storytelling and dances designed to engage and entertain the younger audience. There were also tours of the McMillan Memorial Library through The Nairobi Sketch Tour, which offered participants a newly imagined journey through the history of the McMillan Memorial Library through art.

Throughout the week, there was an art exhibition curated by Campasanaa, featuring works by contemporary Kenyan artists. This art exhibition complimented the sketch tour as both highlight the intersection of visual art and literature.

We are thrilled for the African Book Fair to return next year! Until then, enjoy the photos below.

Make sure to follow Soma Nami on Instagram (@somanami_ke) for updates.

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