Discover the Magic of African Literature. 5 Reasons to attend an African Literature Festival

Attending an African literary festival is an enriching experience that brings together authors, readers, and literary enthusiasts to celebrate the written word. My first African literary festival was the Mboka Festival in The Gambia, where I was surrounded by some of the biggest names in African literature, including Nii Ayikwei Parkes, Kadija Sesay, Anni Domingo, James Murua, Femi Elufowoju jr, Tunde Jegede and many others. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to meet and connect with important and legendary artists, gain new insights and education, and be inspired to do more and better. It's a magical world for those who love literature and the written word. If you haven't had the chance to attend an African literary festival, I highly recommend it.

There are so many reasons why discovering an African Literature Festival is so much fun. Here are a few to think about:

1. Discovering New Books: African literature festivals are a great opportunity to discover new books and authors with a wide range of panels, workshops, and book signings, you can learn about the latest and greatest in African literature, and you can even meet the authors themselves!

2.  Experiencing Different Cultures. African festivals are a wonderful way to experience the continent's cultural richness. You can listen to readings in a different language or learn about different literary traditions, this celebration of the diverse cultures is intrinsic to what makes Africa so unique.

3. Building Community. African literature festivals are a great opportunity to build community with other readers and literary enthusiasts. You are discussing your favourite book with like-minded people or participating in group activities, these festivals are a great way to connect with others who share your love of books and reading.

4. Inspiring Conversations. Literature Festivals offer forums for inspiring conversations about the important social, and political issues facing the continent. A great way to meet activists who can inspire you with their stories on things you are not aware of. Whether you are listening to writers talk about their work, or participating in panel discussions, it provides a space for more meaningful and thought-provoking conversations.

5. Celebrating the Arts: African literature festivals are a celebration of the Arts and the power of the written word. where you are listening to poetry readings, musical performances, or theatrical presentations, the festivals are a celebration of the rich artistic traditions of Africa and they are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the Continents writers and artists. We must not forget our traditional storytelling and our music - which go hand in hand with how we do all things storytelling.

It doesn't matter whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to the world of African literature, these festivals are great opportunities to discover new endeavours with community-inspired conversations. So why not plan your next little literary adventure at an African festival today? Check out Writing Africa for details of festivals happening all over the continent