Sharjah: Publishers and booksellers from Africa participating in the second edition of the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL 2026) said culturally focused literary events provide an important platform for knowledge exchange, interaction, and the translation of books across regions.
According to Emirates News Agency, James Odhiambo, CEO of the Kenya Publishers Association, emphasized that the festival offers learning opportunities for both Africans and international audiences. He noted that interactions at SFAL revealed the diversity of African writing styles and traditions, adding that the festival opened prospects for translating African works into Arabic, highlighting linguistic and cultural links between African and Arab literature.
Mkuki Bgoya, Managing Director of Tanzania-based Mkuki na Nyota Publishers, stated that the festival helps address the underrepresentation of African literature by enabling direct engagement between African authors and Arab publishers. This engagement supports the exchange of translation rights and authentic cultural narratives.
Ditiro Huma, Director of Mosala Masedi Publishers and Booksellers in Johannesburg, expressed that SFAL facilitates cultural exchange and provides insight into the UAE’s education and publishing sectors. He pointed to strong potential for collaboration between South Africa and the UAE.
Tirhas Haile, Early Childhood Development Director at Whiz Kids Workshop in Addis Ababa, shared that the festival offers an effective platform to connect with publishers and writers, exploring opportunities to translate Amharic works into Arabic.
The Sharjah Festival of African Literature 2026, held under the theme The African Way, runs from 14th to 18th January at University City Hall Square in Sharjah.
