Tanzania is set to mark this year’s National Reading Week with a renewed spirit as preparations for the 32nd edition of the national book exhibition reach final stages.
According to organizers, the event will be officially honoured by Permanent Secretary, Gerson Msigwa.
Speaking about the preparations, Hermes Damian, Chairperson of the Publishers Association of Tanzania, said the reading celebrations have a long history dating back to the era of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, and have continued to grow in relevance over the years.
“This year’s exhibition is the 32nd, and it comes uniquely by involving more major local stakeholders as well as international participants. Visitors from within and outside the country will get a chance to witness a wide range of literary works,” he said.
The fair is scheduled to run from November 21 to 26, carrying the theme of reviving and strengthening the culture of reading nationwide.
“We have a wide collection of books authored by various writers, curriculum books, literature titles, and many other popular works,” Damian added.
This year’s exhibition will also spotlight eight works by renowned Tanzanian playwright Ebrahim Hussein, alongside the launch of several bilingual dictionaries, new curriculum-aligned textbooks, and kindergarten-level children's books.
The event will take place at the National Central Library Grounds (Posta) and is expected to attract thousands of Dar es Salaam residents and international visitors.
Books and dictionaries will be sold at discounted prices of up to 20%, aimed at making reading materials more accessible and encouraging purchases on the spot.
“We are doing this to boost enthusiasm and support readers. Visitors will also explore various publishers’ stalls and discover diverse publications,” Damian emphasized.
Mr. Hermes, who has served as the chairperson of the Publishers Association for several years, noted that the exhibition is expected to give fresh impetus to the government to continue investing in reading culture promotion across the country.
“Our books are very popular in Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, and many other countries. We must encourage the government to closely support and grow this opportunity,” he concluded.