They Said Books Were Dying — Readers Proved Them Wrong and Made History at the African Book Fair

If you thought that books are silent, then you are wrong. From the moment the doors opened on August 7th, the Maktaba Kuu Tower in Nairobi transformed into a buzzing literary hive. “From the moment we opened, this place was flocked,” said one security guard, shaking his head in amazement. “Hii nayo ilikuwa kali hata sijui niseme nini (This one was so big I don’t even know what to say).”

For four vibrant days, readers from across Africa and beyond poured into the venue. They came to read, to buy, to explore, to ask questions, to get answers, to hug authors, to interact, to talk, and to connect with African stories in ways that felt almost electric.

This year’s African Book Fair — the 3rd edition organised by Soma Nami Books — had no corporate sponsors. Yet, it became one of the most successful literary gatherings on the continent. The sponsors were the people themselves. Attendees bought books in volumes that shocked even the organisers. Some readers spent KSh 60,000, 70,000, even 100,000 in single purchases. Countless others left with discounted bundles, some at up to 50% off normal retail prices.

“We made this to connect readers with books,” said Muthoni Muiruri, Co-founder and Director of Soma Nami Books, which she established alongside Wendy Njoroge. “African people should feel the power of connecting to their own stories — and this is what we offer better than any other book fair globally. Ours is about the people, for the people.”

The event featured over 10,000 books and more than 2,000 titles from across genres, representing more than 50 African countries. Attendees included readers, authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts from around the world.

The halls of Maktaba Kuu were decorated with colourful Afro-themed prints, antiques, and designs that made the entire space smell and feel like Africa. The walls “screamed” African readers, the floors bore the footsteps of people who had travelled far to be there. The entrance was warm and welcoming, but inside — like a beehive — it was alive with constant movement and energy.

Among the notable literary giants present was Prof. Kithaka Wa Mberia, the celebrated author of Kifo Kisimani and Mchezo wa Karata, alongside other legendary Headliners, who have global influence on African literature. The room was electrified with inspiration both for upcoming writers and lifelong book lovers.

The African Book Fair was not just a marketplace — it was a celebration of African heritage, ideas, and creativity. It proved beyond doubt that Africans still cherish physical books, even in an age dominated by screens. It was a living reminder that our stories, told by us, still hold the power to gather thousands.

As The Celebrated Muthoni Muiruri concluded in her exclusive interview with Producer Gee of LiveNow Africa, she added that:- “We are hoping to shake hands and build relationships with hundreds, even thousands, of sponsors out there. Our hands are open, and our packages are attractive for anyone who wants to make a change through connecting the world to African stories.”

And the invitation stands — not only for the next African Book Fair, but also to join our book clubs and visit our book centres at The Greenhouse Mall, Ngong Road (Suite 12) or along Ngara Road, Nairobi. By sharing this story, you become part of history in the making.