“When literacy organisations, libraries and communities come together, their impact multiplies like waves gathering to form a powerful tide.”
“When we act together, each partner, each parent, each storyteller, we create momentum that one of us could not achieve alone,” remarked festival founder Pumla Makeleni, establishing the framework for the 2026 Ibuyambo Book Festival.
The festival is set to take place on February 20 and 21 at Guga S’thebe in Cape Town, driven by a sense of urgency.
During the two-day event, writers, translators, publishers, scholars, educators, creatives, and young readers will convene in Langa for a program intended to question the existing order and spotlight the significance of African languages.
In South Africa, where eleven languages hold official status, a mere 2% of commercially published books are written in indigenous African languages. This reality implies that millions of children must learn to read in languages not spoken in their homes. Makeleni considers this not just a literacy issue but a question of justice.
“‘Our Words, Our Work, Our Freedom’ is more than a theme,” she stated. “It is a plea to acknowledge African languages as vital languages of knowledge, economy, and creativity. We cannot advocate for equality while our narratives are neglected.”
Presented by Ibuyambo, the annual festival is cost-free and serves as a platform for literature and culture focused on African languages and storytelling.
This year’s theme emphasizes the role of language in work and sustenance, examining how writers and cultural professionals can cultivate viable careers in indigenous languages.
Among key discussions is a talk featuring Professor Simphiwe Sesanti, Dr Athambile Masola, and Nkosinathi Biko, who will consider the importance of translating Biko’s writings into isiXhosa.
The exchange will delve into how translation can restore political ideas to the communities that influenced them.
Throughout the weekend, panel discussions will tackle the reasons why indigenous languages face marginalization in publishing and distribution and explore the necessary changes for industry transformation.
“We are envisioning linguistic futures anchored in access and community,” Makeleni remarked. “By prioritizing our own narratives, we alter the foundations of the publishing world.”
For two days in Langa, the focus shifts towards inclusion, opportunity, and empowerment.
