Nigerian indie press Narrative Landscape Press, based in Lagos, is opening a new branch in East Africa. The new entity is called Narrative Landscape Press East Africa (NLPEA). It will operate out of Nairobi and be led by Wendy Njoroge, who is coming on as the co-founder and CEO. Njoroge comes into this new role with experience and connections in the Kenyan literary scene, as the co-founder of Kenya’s popular Soma Nami bookstore.

This expansion comes at a time when African indie publishers are reimagining the business of literary publishing. While the US and UK have been the biggest markets for African books, ventures like NLPEA signal potential for regional collaborations and local publishing hubs.

NLPEA will focus on sourcing and publishing literary talent from East Africa, with plans to release fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books by East African authors. They will also offer publishing services to organizations and individuals through their Prima imprint.

Narrative Landscape Press was founded in 2016 by Anwuli Ojogwu and Eghosa Imasuen and has published some of the most prominent voices in contemporary African literature, including Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Chigozie Obioma, and Marlon James. The move into East Africa, according to Imasuen, is about extending their mission to celebrate authentic African stories: “Narrative Landscape Press was built on a vision to tell authentic African stories, and this expansion into East Africa is our way of honoring that legacy.”

For Ojogwu, this expansion is also an opportunity to tap into the diversity of storytelling across the continent: “We are excited to collaborate with the region’s talented writers, enriching the literary landscape and creating a home for stories that resonate locally and globally.”

Wendy Njoroge says the new branch will amplify East African literature: “This is a new dawn for storytelling in East Africa. We are committed to providing a platform where stories from this region can thrive and reach audiences far and wide.”

This move indicates the rise of local, market-driven literary enterprises across Africa. Njoroge is already calling on East African authors to share their work: “To authors and storytellers, we invite you to partner with us on this exciting journey. Our stories, told our way, are ready to change the world.”

Authors interested in publishing with NLPEA can reach out via Instagram @narrativelandscapepressea, Twitter @NLP_East_Africa, or visit www.narrativelandscape.co.ke.