The Aké Arts and Book Festival, Africa’s largest literary celebration, is set to return for its highly anticipated 12th edition. Scheduled to take place from November 20 to 23, 2024, at Bon Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, this year’s festival promises an exciting array of events under the theme: Finding Freedom.
Founded by Lola Shoneyin, award-winning author and cultural advocate, the festival has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s literary and cultural landscape, attracting writers, thinkers, and audiences from across the globe.
The 2024 theme, Finding Freedom, delves into the universal human pursuit of autonomy amidst adversity. Festival founder Lola Shoneyin shared her insights on the theme at a press conference held on November 8, 2024, at the Ouida Bookstore in Lagos.
“We’re living through a time when conflicts and struggles for freedom dominate global narratives. From the ongoing crises in Congo and Sudan to the human stories emerging from Ukraine and Gaza, this theme allows us to reflect on resilience, hope, and the right to self-determination,” Shoneyin explained.
This year’s Aké Arts and Book Festival will feature 24 curated events, offering a dynamic blend of:
- Panel discussions tackling contemporary issues.
- Book readings and chats showcasing celebrated and emerging authors.
- Live music, comedy, and poetry sessions celebrating the richness of African art.
- Film screenings highlighting innovative storytelling.
- A cancer awareness panel to foster education and support for affected communities.
The festival will conclude with a palm wine and poetry night, blending tradition with creative expression in an intimate setting.
A key highlight of the festival is its focus on inclusivity. One of the sessions will feature Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie, author of Ugo and Sim Sim: What is Down Syndrome?—a pioneering Nigerian children’s book that fosters empathy and awareness about special needs.
“This book is groundbreaking in its representation of children with Down syndrome and reminds us to exercise compassion toward those with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities,” Shoneyin said.
Additionally, the festival will introduce new voices like Erhu Kome, whose book The Smoke that Thunders draws inspiration from Urhobo mythology. “Giving underrepresented communities a stage is crucial for showcasing the depth and diversity of Nigeria’s cultural heritage,” Shoneyin remarked
The session Demystifying Cancer will provide a platform to address myths and share survivor stories. It will be co-facilitated by Prof. Wole Soyinka and Gloria Okwu, both cancer survivors, and moderated by investigative journalist Ruona Meyer.
In honor of the late Tayo Agunbiade, author of Untold Histories of Nigerian Women: Emerging from the Margins, who passed away earlier this year, the festival will include a tribute to her remarkable contributions to Nigerian history and literatur
The Aké Arts and Book Festival consistently attracts a stellar roster of writers, and 2024 will be no exception. Esteemed authors like Nnedi Okorafor, Maame Blue, Abi Daré, Siphiwe Ndlovu, Nnamdi Ehirim, and many others will participate, contributing to vibrant discussions and creative explorations.
The festival extends heartfelt gratitude to its partners and sponsors, including Sterling Bank, the Open Society Foundation, and the Lagos State Government, whose unwavering support ensures the continued growth and impact of this cultural landmark.
The Aké Arts and Book Festival 2024 invites literary enthusiasts, thinkers, and creatives from around the world to join in celebrating the power of stories to illuminate and transform the human experience. Together, let us explore the unyielding spirit of freedom.
