Kenya has a vibrant and diverse reading culture thriving amidst its rich literary traditions and a growing appetite for knowledge.
In a recent study by data firm Stadi Analytics and the Writers Guild Kenya (WGK), at least 85 per cent of residents living in Nairobi, Kenya read regularly, and more than half do so daily.
Libraries, book clubs, and literary festivals are key drivers of this reading culture, fostering a love for books among Kenyan readers of all ages and fueling the increase in authors.
Despite this increase, many authors are still not able to gain the full benefits from their art, with many taking home only 10% of the profits.
“Being an author is difficult, almost everyone in the world would like to write and publish a book but only 1% go ahead to write and publish. Many aspiring authors are mistaken that writing is easy and that when they do write it will be the best book ever, only to realize there’s more to the business of writing,” said Larry Liza, an established Kenyan author, during an author’s forum hosted by Text Book Centre dubbed 254 Kitabu Fest.
During the forum, Risper Oluga, Text Book Centre’s E-Commerce Manager, said, “The genesis of The 254 Kitabu Fest lies in Text Book Centre’s dedication to showcasing the extensive array of local titles available. We currently stock over 1000 local authors which represent up to 50% of the titles within our store. However, not many Kenyans are purchasing these books; most of the ones that fly off the shelf are linked to the education system.”
“This inspired the development of The 254 Kitabu Fest, curated to celebrate Kenyan literature and over 1000 Kenyan authors by inspiring them to understand what it takes to be an author, how to grow and monetize, how to remain relevant and how to inspire the upcoming generation to write,”[SV1] she added
“With the increase in digital disruption and changing consumer behaviours, authors need such forums to discuss monetization strategies and remain relevant as much as possible. This includes sharing tips on how to list books in both online and brick-and-mortar stores as well as learning how to promote our books and create demand beyond the bookstore,” added Larry.
“The 254 Festival demonstrates that the book business is a dynamic and vital part of Kenya’s intellectual landscape and underscores Text Book Centre’s foundational dedication in nurturing homegrown literary talent, a commitment ingrained since its inception over 60+ years ago,” added Risper.
During the full-month festival, Text Book Centre will host various engaging events such as book signings, parent-child readings, and launches. Additionally, the festival offers enticing discounts of up to 80% on selected books, to encourage a wider embrace of reading, making literature more accessible to all, avid readers and newcomers alike.
The 254 Kitabu Fest will culminate in an event, ‘Celebration of Kenyan Voices’ slated for the 29th of September at Text Book Centre, Sarit.
L-R: Wangeci Kanyeki, media practitioner, Larry Liza, Director World Customs Org. ESA, poet and author, and Risper Oluga, E-Commerce Manager, Text Book Centre, during a Kenyan author’s forum by the 254 Kitabu Fest, aimed at celebrating local authors.
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