Save the Date

From May 7–10, 2026, Nairobi will become the epicenter of African storytelling as the Africa Forward Fest unfolds at the Alliance Française. This four-day celebration, powered by  Alliance Française de Nairobi in partnership with eKitabu, is more than a festival—it’s a movement to expand access to African literature across languages, borders, and generations.

The festival promises a rich programme designed to move stories further: publisher and translation roundtables moderated by leading voices like Edwige Dro, school-focused sessions connecting young readers with authors in English and French, book club networking, and vibrant poetry and performance showcases. A standout highlight will be the stage adaptation of After 4.30 by Kenyan literary icon David G. Maillu, published under eKitabu’s Mvua Press, bringing classic African literature to life for contemporary audiences.

Another milestone is the Prix de l’édition jeunesse africaine, now in its second edition, which celebrates excellence in French-language children’s publishing while bridging Francophone and Anglophone literary ecosystems. This prize is more than recognition—it’s a step toward ensuring African children’s stories reach wider audiences across the continent and beyond.

As Will Clurman, CEO of eKitabu, explains: “Across Africa, we are seeing an explosion of talent, stories, and publishing energy. But for that momentum to translate into real impact, those stories need to move—across borders, across languages, and into the hands of more readers.”

With its bold programming and strategic partnerships, Africa Forward Fest 2026 is set to be a vibrant, meaningful platform for dialogue, investment, and connection—positioning Nairobi as a key meeting point for the future of African publishing.

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