shloboe boe
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AFTER hosting two successful mini book fairs earlier this year in Harare and Bulawayo, the Zimbabwe International Book Fair (ZIBF) is poised to return with its flagship event, scheduled to take place at Harare Gardens on October 30 and 31.
The two-day event, themed “Page by Page: The Book Returns”, will bring together writers, publishers, readers, academics, and industry professionals in a celebration of literature, knowledge, and the enduring power of the written word.
Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, book launches, networking sessions, and exhibitions — all aimed at reviving and promoting a vibrant reading culture.
ZIBF organisers reaffirmed their commitment to the promotion of reading and literature.
“ZIBF remains a premier literary event, bringing together book lovers, authors, publishers, and industry professionals from across the globe. Our purpose is to celebrate the written word, foster a culture of reading, and provide a platform for knowledge sharing and networking.”
This year’s main fair follows two smaller events — the Reconnect Book Festival 2025, held in Harare (May 30–31) and Bulawayo (July 31– August 1).
These gatherings formed part of ZIBF’s broader strategy to re-engage with key stakeholders and reignite interest in books and reading.
The “Reconnect” series laid the groundwork for the main Harare event and reinforced the fair’s mission to reclaim its place as a key fixture on Africa’s literary and cultural calendar. Participants included the Bulawayo Public Library, Dream Discovery Publishers, University of Zimbabwe Bookshop, Akello Library, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic, and the Zimbabwe Academic and Non-fiction Authors Association (Zana), among others.
The main fair will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, including academic institutions, public libraries, private publishers, educational suppliers and authors’ associations.
Beyond book exhibitions, ZIBF offers a platform for workshops, panel discussions, author talks and performances — creating opportunities for collaboration, inspiration and cultural exchange.
Established in 1983, the Zimbabwe International Book Fair has grown into one of Africa’s leading publishing and literary trade events. It has played a pivotal role in promoting African literature, nurturing emerging writers, and facilitating intercultural dialogue. Its contribution to the continent’s literary landscape was internationally recognised when it received the Prince Claus Award in 1997.
Online Reporter