We’re proud to announce that Tiisetso Maloma, founder of Bula Buka Publishers, will be speaking at the Zanzibar Book Fair this Saturday, 24 May 2025. Now in its second year, the fair has fast become a landmark event on the African literary calendar—bringing together readers, writers, educators, publishers, and creatives from across the continent and beyond.

Maloma will be presenting at the “Teknolojia na Fasihi za Watoto” (Technology and Children’s Literature) forum, where he’ll unpack how AI and digital tools are transforming the storytelling landscape for young readers. The forum will explore how authors, educators, and publishers can harness these tools to enhance creativity, boost access, and shape the future of African children’s literature.

“I’m excited to be speaking at the Zanzibar Book Fair about the future of AI in literature,” says Maloma. “This year’s theme—children’s literature—couldn’t be more fitting. At Bula Buka, we’re building some thrilling new projects for young readers and launching an AI-powered publishing imprint and innovation fund.”

Drawing on ideas from his book 90 Days to Create and Launch, Maloma emphasizes that we’re living in a moment where technology lowers barriers like never before:

“It is the easiest, cheapest, and quickest time in history to be an entrepreneur and innovator. AI accelerates creation, reduces costs, and unlocks new pathways. For Africa, this is transformative.”

The Zanzibar Book Fair will take place from 23–25 May 2025 and includes book launches, panel discussions, storytelling sessions, poetry nights, a kids’ corner, and a diverse marketplace of African literature. This year’s fair is supported by Taste Me Desert Hub, Smartboy Foundation, ZAYEO, Maktaba Zanzibar, Room to Read, Turaco, and YAS.

Learn more about the Zanzibar Book Fair at www.zanzibarbookfair.org

Follow the journey and stay tuned for updates from Zanzibar on our social media channels.