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Gaborone Book Festival

The Gaborone Book Festival is a three-day literary celebration in Botswana's capital, scheduled for August 20–22, 2026. Held at the National Museum, the event features panel discussions, poetry performances, and a book market, with a 2026 theme focused on the environment and the nation's 60th anniversary of independence.

Date
Aug 20-22, 2026
Location
Gaborone
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Gaborone Book Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Theme focused on the environment and Botswana's 60th independence anniversary
  • Children’s festival and writing workshop for 50 young learners
  • Final day open book market at the National Museum grounds
  • Appearances by novelist Sue Nyathi and fiction fellow Gothataone Moeng
The Gaborone Book Festival returns to the National Museum from August 20 to 22, 2026, marking a significant milestone as Botswana celebrates its diamond jubilee. Founded in 2017 by sisters Keikantse and Kenanao Phele, the festival serves as a vital platform for literary exchange and civic dialogue. The 2026 edition is co-curated by Dr. Kirk Sides from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and focuses on the intersection of the environment and creative expression.

The program includes diverse activities such as evening panel discussions, live poetry readings, and a dedicated children’s festival. A writing workshop will host 50 young learners from various communities to foster creative mentorship. Beyond traditional literature, the event incorporates filmmakers, visual artists, and culinary chefs to explore how environmental concerns shape various creative disciplines.

Featured participants for the 2026 roster include local talents like Gothataone Moeng, Thalefang Charles, and Phodiso Modirwa, alongside international novelist Sue Nyathi. The event concludes with an open book market on the museum grounds, providing a rare physical space for authors, publishers, and readers to connect and share new works.

Practical details

Location described by the source
National Museum
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Area for browsing nearby events
Gaborone

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

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Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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Gaborone calendar Open local events and dates. More in South-East Browse the wider area. Botswana calendar Browse the national event calendar.