The 10th edition of the Conakry International Youth Book Fair (SILJC) was announced at a press conference held on November 2. The event celebrates ten years of promoting reading and youth engagement in Guinea. This year's edition brings together major literary events in Conakry, including the Salon de la lecture and the 72 heures du livre. The coordinated program aligns with Conakry's designation as a UNESCO Creative City.
The SILJC has garnered support from the French government, a historical partner of the event. French Ambassador's new cooperation attaché, Majda Rachid, reaffirmed France's commitment to youth and fundamental learning. The event also honors Dakar, Senegal, as the guest of honor. Despite logistical challenges, a high-level Senegalese delegation led by the vice mayor for culture will attend, accompanied by a large Senegalese stand.
The SILJC's general delegate, Aliou Sow, emphasized the significance of coordination among literary events in Conakry. He stated that the events share a common vision and direction. The fair will feature a diverse range of activities, including workshops, meetings, and book presentations. The event aims to promote reading in various forms, with a focus on linguistic diversity, featuring books in French and national languages.
This edition prioritizes documentary books, responding to Guinea's modernization. The event includes workshops on writing youth documentaries, enabling participants to share local stories and riches. Recent publications on marine salt and the spirit of the river serve as examples. The SILJC's ultimate goal is to establish a lasting culture of reading within families, giving young people a love for reading.
The SILJC has made significant progress over the past decade, according to Aliou Sow. The event's success is crucial for promoting reading and academic achievement among future generations. The 2026 edition promises four days of engaging activities, aiming to showcase Guinean youth literature beyond national borders.
The event's organizers have made a concerted effort to involve various stakeholders in the literary community. The SILJC's coordination with other literary events in Conakry reflects a shared vision for promoting reading and literature. The fair will feature a range of activities, including book presentations, workshops, and meetings with authors.
As the SILJC celebrates its tenth anniversary, it has become a significant event in Conakry's cultural calendar. The fair's focus on youth literature and linguistic diversity has contributed to its success. With the support of international partners, including France and Senegal, the SILJC is poised to continue promoting reading and literature in Guinea and beyond.
Key points
- The SILJC promotes linguistic diversity through books in French and national languages.
- The event prioritizes documentary books and features workshops on writing youth documentaries.
- The SILJC aims to establish a lasting culture of reading within Guinean families.
