Publishers & Books
“Publishers & Books” is undoubtedly the most well-known project of the African Observatory of Publishing Professionals (OAPE). It was the very first initiative undertaken by the organisation when it was launched in 2018. Founded by Ulrich Talla Wamba, the project addresses a crucial need: to provide coverage of book-related news in African countries. He felt a sense of frustration upon realising that very few events concerning the book industry were being reported. There seemed to be a void in this area. The events that did receive global attention were generally financed by Northern organisations, while others remained entirely overlooked.
Moreover, he observed that media outlets discussing book industry news on the continent often dedicated only a small section to the entire African continent, which consists of 54 countries. This is unfortunate because the professionals (authors, publishers, booksellers, printers, etc.) involved in the book industry do not receive sufficient recognition. They are not given enough of a platform to be heard.
Challenges in Publishing
Within the first few weeks of OAPE’s establishment, he launched a professional and specialised magazine called Publishers & Books. The purpose of the magazine is to provide a regular platform for the voices of those working in the book industry across the African continent and the Caribbean. The magazine aims to bring the book and its industry back into the limelight. It seeks to cover the key events related to books in all countries of the Global South.
To reach a wider audience, the magazine is available in both English and French. It covers news in both languages to preserve the authentic expressions of its speakers. The magazine relies on its international network of correspondents who provide weekly updates on the book industry.
Publishers & Books is also a platform for reflection on the book trade, industry practices, and tools. It serves as a catalogue for the latest releases from publishers across Africa and beyond. The magazine is entirely funded through its own resources.
The Great Crisis
The magazine faced a challenging period in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Production funds for the magazine dried up, and OAPE lost many of its databases due to malicious attacks. Some of the previous issues have been preserved and are available for free consultation HERE.
Together We Can!
Since 2023, when activities resumed, the magazine has been available once again. It has made a return with Publishers & Books KIDS, which focuses on the children’s book industry in Africa. The magazines are sold, and the proceeds help fund future editions. We would like to extend our gratitude for your continued interest in this magazine and our activities. You are invited to join us on this journey or to support us in funding specific issues.
Let us strengthen the book industry in Africa and the Caribbean. Together, we can make it happen!
