The Eduvos Durban International Book Fair 2024 is in full swing, transforming the college campus at 1 Umhlanga Ridge Boulevard, Lunar Row, Umhlanga, into a bastion of literary celebration. It is an event of impressive scale, attracting over 250 writers, poets and creatives from South Africa and around the world. The literary gathering, which runs until 1 December, provides a platform for rich cultural exchange in the heart of Africa’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
The festival stages are dedicated to iconic figures such as Africa Poet Laureate Professor Mazisi Kunene, anti-apartheid sports activist Cheryl Roberts, and literary icon Alan Paton. It is a vibrant celebration for book lovers, writers and literary professionals. Visitors can enjoy a diverse programme of workshops, exhibitions and discussions around newly published books.
Highlights include book design and publishing workshops, which offer valuable insights into the literary industry. These sessions provide an exceptional platform for aspiring and established writers to navigate the labyrinth of the literary world with greater ease.
Exhibitors include a variety of organisations such as the Nali’bali literacy campaign, university presses and independent booksellers. Under the simple theme of “Once upon a time…”, the festival is committed to promoting a culture of reading and storytelling, with a particular focus on young children.
DIBF2024 not only celebrates the power of the written and spoken word, but also the vibrant cultural exchange it fosters. It showcases Durban’s literary talent alongside world-class literary cities such as Melbourne, Dublin and Edinburgh.
With a full programme available at www.durbanbookfair.co.za and enquiries via WhatsApp on 082 940 8163, the festival runs from 9am until the evening each day on the three dedicated stages. It is an immersive experience that combines a passion for books, literary creativity and cultural exchange, offering visitors a unique chance to delve into the heart of the contemporary literary scene.