A Story That Began in 2017
Ulrich Talla Wamba, still a student at ESSTIC, an international graduate school that trains publishers in Yaoundé, sought to establish a network of book and publishing enthusiasts from Cameroon and beyond. It was during his trip to Congo that the project began to take shape.
Then and Now
An International Network of African Publishing Professionals…
OAPE is now the largest network of publishing professionals on the African continent. OAPE is dedicated to helping these professionals develop more rapidly to make the publishing industry more sustainable across Africa and the Caribbean.
2023
OAPE is Back
Since 2023, the organisation has resumed its activities. Its various flagship projects have been reactivated to benefit publishing professionals in Africa and the Caribbean.
2022
Decision to Resume Activities
Several professional members and non-members reached out to request a resumption of activities. Consultations were conducted once again to ensure the project’s viability and sustainability.
2020
The Impact of the Health Crisis
The health crisis hindered the organisation’s activities. The project is entirely self-funded, and repeated lockdowns weakened these income sources. After considerable effort, the organisation was forced to pause its activities.
2019
Expansion to Caribbean Countries
With the support of local authorities and professionals, OAPE expanded its activities to the Caribbean. This expansion brought together many more members from different African countries.
2018
First Issue of P&B Published
The magazine Publishers & Books was the first project to be carried out. It brought together professionals from seven countries. The project grew rapidly from there.
2018
Official Launch of OAPE
During the Brazzaville Meeting, our CEO officially presented the idea to the professionals in attendance. Several, from different African countries, immediately signed up.
2017
Early Consultations
For several months, publishing professionals were consulted to gauge their support for such an initiative. Simultaneously, the needs of the publishing sector were gathered.
