NBO Litfest to take place from June 27

Book Bunk and Hay Festival are co-hosting this year’s edition of NBO Litfest, taking place from June 27 – 30 June 2024 at three public libraries in Nairobi: Kaloleni Library, Eastlands Library, and McMillan Memorial Library.

This year marks a special iteration of the festival, as Book Bunk partners with Hay Festival Global to bring an unparalleled celebration of literature and free expression to the heart of Nairobi.

The festival timings for all days will be from 10 – 8 PM. 

Ahead of the festival, Angela Wachuka, co-founder of Book Bunk said they were honoured to showcase Nairobi for the world.

“The establishment of Book Bunk was borne out of our search for public libraries in which to host literary events and 6 years later, we are thrilled to stage these events in these very spaces that are now vibrant centres of creative expression in Nairobi.”

Wanjiru Koinange, co-founder of Book Bunk added, “We’re honoured to be able to continue to invite the world to experience our city, its storytelling and its libraries.” 

Rooted in Nairobi’s vibrant public libraries, NBO Litfest is not just a literary festival; it’s a dynamic platform that unites writers, artists, and thinkers from the region and beyond with the community. 

This year’s festival promises to amplify voices, inspire creativity, and ignite discussions that challenge conventions and inspire change, fostering a rich environment for cultural exchange and intellectual engagement.

The festival has an exciting programme that begins on Friday 28 June with a day of masterclasses featuring writers, journalists and public speakers at the height of their craft, including Bernardine Evaristo, Shafinaaz Hassim, Mercy Juma, Beverly Ochieng and June Gachui. 

Events for children and young people across the festival days include an African Story Box Time with Orpah Agunda; director Tevin Kimathi and kid actor Kael Wafubwa showing their new film ‘Stero’; live and interactive readings with Taiye Selasi, Amani Muthoni and Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni and story writing masterclass with Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni plus live music. 

Saturday and Sunday (29 – 30 June) will present the main festival days at Eastlands Library. 

Some of the world’s biggest questions will be tackled in panels hosted by:

 View the festival programme and participants for more information.

Book Bunk and Hay Festival Partnership will widen the scope and impact of NBO Litfest. 

The collaboration adds more pan-African and international participants in dialogue with East African writers, creators and thought leaders about global issues. 

This presents an opportunity for NBO LitFest to grow while continuing to highlight the importance of public libraries as safe spaces for discussion and critical thinking. 

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