Mogadishu International Book Fair: Changing the narrative of the city

Mogadishu, the capital city of Somalia hosted on 13-15 Sept the 3^rd year of Mogadishu International Book Fair. The book fair organizes each year by New Horizon, a non-governmental organization that focuses on civic engagement. The fair promotes the culture of reading, Somali language, and heritage and it has brought together writers, poets, artists, storytellers from all over the world. The event includes book launches, Exhibitions of photography and fine art, Keynote Guest Lectures, Panel discussions, and debates.

I have attended the first day and last day of the book fair and I want to share with you here on my thoughts on this event.

It was the first time in my life to participate in such a book fair and really impressed how well it was organized. I came at 10:00PM, a few hours after the official launch. When I entered the hotel there were many people outside the hall that the event was taking place. The participants outside the hall were taking a selfie, posing for photos and a far corner near the kitchen many youths were sipping café and drinking water.

I have taken a badge from a lady who was sitting the entrance of the hall, registered my name and entered the hall. A panel discussion on persevering the Somali language was going on when I entered the hall. A panel from Somalia Academic of culture was discussing how to improve the writing of Somalia language and preserve it. I was very much interesting to see the books and I toured the books presented at the event. Many of the books presented were written in Somalia language and mostly written by youth. There were many booksellers who were present to present their books and Loox press that publishes books.

The event changed the narrative of a city that was once known as the most dangerous city in the world. The city has been recovering from war and destruction and heading to development. The event was trending on social media and Twitter interaction has reached more 5 million. Thanks to the youth who did this wonderful job!

I have noticed that most participants were youth who are under 30 which is very encouraging that the gun was replaced by a pen. It’s promising that youth are competing for knowledge instead of a gun.

The most youth were complaining that books were quite expensive and most of them could not afford thus preferred to hang out outside and take a selfie instead of interacting with writers and network with professionals.

Finally, I would suggest to the organizers to make books cheaper and affordable and organize small events apart from the annual one to encourage reading and writing.