The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture through its entity – the National Library of South Africa (NLSA) is delighted to announce South Africa’s participation at the prestigious Gothenburg Book Fair (GBF), set to take place from 28 September to 01 October 2023 in Gothenburg, Sweden. The theme for South Africa’s participation at the GBF 2023 is “Sharing Stories: Under the Baobab tree”.
"Sharing Stories: Under the Baobab Tree" encapsulates the essence of South African storytelling traditions. The baobab tree, also known as the "Tree of Life," has been a central gathering place for generations of South Africans, where stories, folklore, and wisdom have been passed down through the ages. These huge trees also provide shade and shelter as well as water, nourishment, and medicine. The theme suggests a rootedness in place and time and paints a picture of the spaces that many trees across the landscape provide. South Africa's presence at the Gothenburg Book Fair aims to recreate this cherished tradition by bringing together diverse voices, narratives, and perspectives from South Africa's vibrant literary landscape.
The Gothenburg Book Fair is the largest book fair in Scandinavia, attracting authors, publishers, and book enthusiasts. South Africa's participation on this platform is an opportunity to share the country’s rich literary heritage and foster cultural exchange.
The following renowned authors will be representing South African at the Gothenburg Book Fair:
- Lynn Joffe;
- Zakes Mda;
- Refiloe Moahloli;
- Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni and,
- Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta
Acting Director General of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Dr Stella Khumalo appreciates South Africa’s participation at the fair as it is an opportunity to expose the world to the culture and heritage of our country. She says” It is an honour for South Africa to be participating at the 2023 Gothenburg Book Fair with the rest of the literary world. This will provide a platform for South African artists to showcase their stories that embody the richness of our cultural diversity and the heritage of our country and allow an exhibition of their work to the international audience”.
The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) implements South Africa’s participation at the Gothenburg Book Fair through the National Library of South Africa (NLSA).
For more information about South Africa's participation in the Gothenburg Book Fair and updates on scheduled events, please follow the DSAC and NLSA’s social media platforms.
Media enquiries:
Ms. Zimasa Velaphi |Head of Communications and Marketing|Cell: 072 172 8925 |Email: zimasav@dsac.gov.za
Mr. Litha Mpondwana |Media Liaison Officer: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture │ Cell: 064 802 3003 │ Email: LithaM@dsac.gov.za
Ms. Jolene Bhadais|Director: Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations |Cell: 064 625 7281 |Email: jolene.bhadais@nlsa.ac.za
