The inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) is just around the corner. From January 24th to 27th African writers will gather at University City in Sharjah, UAE. The event is being organized by the Sharjah Book Authority and will bring together African and Emirati writers.

SFAL is launching with a historic first. Two Nobel laureates in literature, Wole Soyinka and Abdulrazak Gurnah, are headlining the event. Clearly a can’t-miss moment for readers and writers alike.

Africanfuturist author Nnedi Okorafor; Jennifer Makumbi, whose The First Woman won the Jhalak Prize; Lola Shoneyin, the founder of Ake Festival; and Tendai Huchu, celebrated for his Scottish/Zimbabwe-inspired series will be there. Chika Unigwe, author of The Middle Daughter and multi-media artist Wana Udobang will also be attending.

East Africa is well-represented too with Kenyan publisher Wendy Njoroge, Mara Menzies, and novelist Yvonne Owuor. Zimbabwean author Petina Gappah and Nigerian novelist Nnamdi Ehirim are also expected to be there.

The event will feature eight Book Talk sessions, three insightful panel discussions, and twelve engaging workshops designed for children. The festival will also come alive with captivating musical performances and vibrant roaming shows, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience.

SFAL promises a rich blend of literary and cultural moments, celebrating African storytelling in all its forms. Whether you’re in it for the big names, the chance to discover emerging talent, or simply to soak in the atmosphere of literary excellence, this festival has something for everyone.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a groundbreaking event. The only question is: Are you ready for it?