South African writers attend the London Book Fair

11 April 2010

The Minister of Arts and Culture, Ms Lulu Xingwana, will lead a contingent of South African writers, publishers, booksellers, librarians and other book sector stakeholders to the London Book Fair from 19 to 21 April 2010.

Over 100 South African delegates have already confirmed their participation at this year’s London Book Fair. South Africa has been chosen as the 2010 market focus country at the London Book Fair where over 23 000 people are expected to attend.

The theme for this year is "One Nation, Many Voices" and is aimed at giving international exposure to the diverse voices from South Africa. Participants include a cross-generation of writers such as Keorapetse Kgositsile, Fiona Snyckers, Njabulo S Ndebele, Andre Brink, Mamphela Ramphele, Thando Mgqolozana, Henrietta Rose-Innes, Zukiswa Wanner, etc.

The honour of becoming a market focus country provides the ideal opportunity for South Africa to showcase its authors, publishers, booksellers and other aspects of the book industry to world audiences. The participants will get the opportunity to establish export networks, explore translation and international distribution opportunities and get exposure to international audiences.

On 19 April 2010, Minister Xingwana will officially open the South African pavilion, which will house over 50 South African exhibitors and occupy the centre stage of the book fair.

This is a unique platform to promote South African literature to world audiences and develop a globally competitive book sector.

For further enquiries please contact:
Lisa Combrinck
Cell: 082 821 4886

Mack Lewele
Cell: 082 450 5076

Issued by: Department of Arts and Culture
11 April 2010
Source: Department of Arts and Culture (http://www.dac.gov.za/)