Nairobi International Book Fair 2024

The Nairobi International Book Fair 2024 is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about books.

This annual gathering is more than just a book fair; it’s a celebration of literature that brings together publishers, authors, and readers from all over the world.

So, if you’re an avid reader, a budding writer, or a seasoned publisher, there’s something for everyone.

Key highlights

1. Date and venue

• Date: September 25-29, 2024
• Venue: Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi, Kenya

Mark your calendars and prepare for an eventful week at the Sarit Expo Centre.

Exhibitors

You’ll find a variety of exhibitors at the fair, including:

• Local and international publishers
• Booksellers
• Authors and illustrators
• Educational institutions
• Digital and print media companies

Rights trading

The 2024 Nairobi International Book Fair will focus on rights trading. Building on the success of the inaugural Rights Café in 2023, this pavilion allows local and foreign publishers to trade intellectual property rights.

This exchange makes it easier for African writers to get their books published globally. Rights trading is an excellent opportunity for writers and publishers to expand their reach.

Increased participation

This year, the fair expects participants from many countries:

• Nigeria
• Rwanda
• Ghana
• Malawi
• Tanzania
• Uganda

You’ll also meet representatives from countries outside Africa, such as:

• Argentina
• Brazil
• France
• Germany
• India
• Italy
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• United States

With such diverse participation, you’ll have the chance to interact with a broad range of industry professionals.

Ekitabu and APNET partnership

Ekitabu, an e-learning platform, and the African Publishers Network (APNET) will continue their partnership to enhance the fair’s capabilities. This collaboration aims to promote African publishing and provide more resources for the literary community.

Author and book discounts

You’ll find discounted book prices at the fair. Many publishers will sell books at up to 50% off. Plus, there will be opportunities to meet your favorite authors and get your books signed.

Workshops and panel discussions

The fair will feature workshops for authors, illustrators, and designers. You can attend panel discussions on various topics, such as:

• Nurturing talent through publishing
• Future trends in publishing
• Digital marketing strategies for authors

These sessions are great for learning new skills and gaining industry insights.

Ambassadors and networking

Special ambassadors from different countries will be present. They will negotiate with local publishers and authors for the sale of their rights. This will help you network and exchange ideas with other publishing professionals.

Growth and sustainability

The organizers aim to build on the success of the 2023 fair. They are focused on growing the initiative for 2024 and beyond. The goal is to create a community of publishing professionals who can engage throughout the year.

Cultural performances

Enjoy performances by local artists, including:

• Poetry readings
• Music
• Traditional dances

These performances add a unique cultural flavor to the event.

Attending the fair

1. Tickets and registration

The Book Fair is a free event open to all. Just bring in some cash to take advantage of the discounted book offers.

2. Accommodations

Several hotels near the Sarit Expo Centre offer special rates for attendees. It’s best to book early to secure the best rates.

3. Transportation

• Public transport: The venue is easily accessible via Nairobi’s public transport system.
• Parking: There is ample parking available for those driving.

Making the most of your visit

1. Plan ahead

Review the schedule of events and plan which sessions and activities you want to attend. Knowing what you want to see can help you make the most of your time.

2. Network

Bring business cards and be ready to engage with others in the industry. Networking is a valuable part of the fair.

3. Explore new genres

Use this opportunity to discover new authors and genres you might not typically read. You never know what might catch your interest.

4. Take notes

Attend workshops and seminars with a notebook or digital device to capture valuable insights and tips. This will help you remember key points and apply what you’ve learned later.

Conclusion

The Nairobi International Book Fair 2024 is an event you don’t want to miss. It’s a celebration of literature and a platform for innovation and networking. Whether you’re there to discover new books, learn from industry experts, or connect with other professionals, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to attend and be part of this vibrant literary community.

For more information and updates, visit the Kenya Publishers Association website.