Latest news with #DIBF
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Book fair in uMhlanga grows from grassroots to global stage
FROM humble beginnings under a tree, the Durban International Book Fair (DIBF) has blossomed into one of South Africa's premier literary events, drawing thousands of readers and hundreds of authors from across the globe. As the fair begins today under the theme 'Planet, People, and Power,' co-founder Kiru Naidoo reflects on the journey, the meaning behind the event, and its role in amplifying literary voices. Also read: Book fair in uMhlanga to focus on planet, people, power 'This project literally started under a tree with a band of volunteers eager to promote reading in KwaZulu-Natal. When Durban won the accolade of being named a UNESCO City of Literature, we lent our support. From Mitchell Park, DIBF has grown into huge convention centres of over 2500 square metres.' Now called the Eduvos Durban International Book Fair and hosted at Eduvos Durban Umhlanga, the fair continues to uphold its mission of promoting literature, education, and creative dialogue. This year's theme tackles timely global issues. 'We share a global concern about ecology and the environment, the well-being of people in conflict zones, and must speak our minds about powerful people abusing power,' said Naidoo. 'This is the city of the poet laureate of Africa, Professor Mazisi Kunene, whose name occupies the main stage. It's also home to activist writer Phyllis Naidoo, Lewis Nkosi, Irene Fynn, Betty Govinden, Lindy Stiebel and many others who created a literary hub in our province. Having an annual event means we can honour their work through a fresh generation of writers, poets and playwrights.' The fair not only draws local and international authors but also builds bridges with other UNESCO literary cities through writer exchanges. Naidoo notes that the broader literary ecosystem, such as editors, designers, printers, is often undervalued as a contributor to the local economy. Naidoo, himself a biographer and literary volunteer, finds personal joy in the connections the fair fosters. 'It's the exhilaration of sharing the space, the moment and the love with others who love the written, spoken and performed word,' he said. A highlight of this year's programme is a poetry anthology created by 41 schools. 'By encouraging young people to write, we're also getting them to read. Something exciting is happening in our schools with literature and DIBF is always open to give that energy a platform.' In an era where digital media competes for attention, Naidoo sees value in embracing all forms of reading. 'We encourage people to read in whatever form. Even a bubblegum wrapper can be a source of interest and inspiration.' Behind the scenes, the fair is powered by passion and a shoestring budget. 'DIBF happens on a wing and a prayer with little or no funds. Eduvos Durban Umhlanga has provided a fantastic venue and services at no cost to the organisers. Last year we could pay student volunteers a stipend for travel and meals but this year it will have to be Cool Aid and brown bread unless a benefactor pops up. We're crazy enough to keep doing it.' The fair's inclusive and vibrant energy is bolstered by unexpected moments; from exciting author launches to Deadpool making a surprise appearance in cosplay. 'Cartoon characters and cosplay add a creative dimension to the world of books,' Naidoo laughed. Looking ahead, Naidoo sees the book fair as a critical space for free expression in turbulent times. 'Critical voices the world over are being stunned into silence. Creatives have been the conscience of society from ancient times to Shakespeare and the revolutionary poets telling their stories from Latin America to the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Book fairs are their voices; a safe space to speak and commune.' The Eduvos Durban International Book Fair takes place at Eduvos in uMhlanga from August 14 to 17. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
Qatar Tribune
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
DIBF remains core pillar of Qatar's cultural renaissance: Justice minister
QNA Doha Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs HE Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi emphasized that the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) has become a core pillar of the Qatari cultural renaissance and a mirror of the scientific and cultural advancements, thanks to the support and care the prudent Qatari leadership provides to science and knowledge. During his visit to DIBF, Al Mohannadi commended the organizational caliber, aesthetic design, and continued advancement of each successive 2
Qatar Tribune
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
7 exciting activities await you at DIBF QNL booth
Tribune News Network Doha As the third day of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) 2025 gets underway, Qatar National Library (QNL) continues to welcome visitors to its interactive booth at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). With a wide range of creative, engaging and tech-driven activities, the Library is offering meaningful engagement for guests of all ages, bringing together innovation, storytelling and cultural discovery. Here's a look at the exciting activities happening at the Library's booth: 1. Digital Puzzle Station An interactive challenge that invites both adults and children to solve puzzles while learning more about the Library. Adults explore its services through puzzle pieces, while kids interact with Ramly, the Children's Library mascot, in an entertaining and educational setting. 2. Book Recommendation Tool QNL's book recommendation software helps visitors discover personalised book suggestions from the Library's vast collection, making it easier than ever to find their next favorite read. 3. Digital Poll: Shape Our Next Book Chat Visitors are invited to vote for the next featured title in the Library's upcoming book discussions, or even suggest a new one, giving the public the chance to shape the Library's future events. 4. Short Story Dispenser – Write to Inspire Guests can print a community-written short story and take it home, showcasing creative voices from Qatar through the Library's storytelling initiative. 5. 360° Virtual Tour Through a touchscreen display, visitors can virtually explore the Library's spaces and services in an immersive and engaging way; ideal for first-time visitors or those planning a future trip. 6. Photobooth with Mosaic Screen Visitors can snap their own photo using templates from the Heritage Library's photography collection and enjoy an instant souvenir. Each image contributes to a growing digital mosaic that forms a vibrant visual tribute to the Library's iconic building. 7. Daily Appearances by Ramly the Mascot Families can enjoy cheerful meet-and-greets with Ramly, the Children's Library mascot, who brings playful energy to the booth with photo ops and fun interactions.
Qatar Tribune
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
DIBF central to Qatar's cultural renaissance: Minister
QNA Doha The Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) has become a core pillar of the Qatari cultural renaissance and a mirror of the scientific and cultural advancements of the country, thanks to the support and care the prudent Qatari leadership provides to science and knowledge, Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs HE Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi has emphasised. During his visit to the 34th edition of DIBF, the minister commended the organisational calibre, aesthetic design, and continued advancement of each successive edition. He toured the ministry's booth, along with several participating Qatari, Arab, and international publishing houses. With its booth at DIBF this year, the Ministry of Justice has dedicated a special corner to Qatari legal authors, in pursuit of advancing their skills and encouraging them to innovate through the nation-backed cultural rewards will be allocated for this innovation, in addition to devoting an Arabic calligraphy corner to reviving this inveterate art form and enriching the cultural framework as a whole, Al Mohannadi highlighted. He was briefed on the interactive legal presentations of the Ministry and the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, which featured legal publications, awareness-raising programmes, and innovative initiatives highlighting key projects and programs aimed at strengthening legal awareness across all segments of the community. Both government entities are participating with a booth that showcases a flagship interactive knowledge platform spotlighting key legal initiatives and releases, including a debut initiative by Qatari legal authors. Under one roof, the booth showcases the publications of a group of Qatari writers and researchers affiliated with both government entities, in an initiative that reflects support for national scholarly output and the promotion of Qatar's legal identity. In addition, the booth features informative presentations on the Official Gazette, the nation's permanent constitution, the legal and judicial journals, as well as the Domestic Achievements Book, prepared and published annually by the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers. Overall, the corner is receiving a record turnout from visitors, along with high demand for its interactive services and legal publications, with the AI and Arabic calligraphy corners attracting huge crowds, epitomizing the significant interactive initiatives in advancing self-skills and responsiveness to the imperatives of this era, in addition to keeping up with the ongoing wave of modernisation and advancement sweeping through the domains of science and knowledge.
Qatar Living
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Living
Biggest-ever Doha International Book Fair kicks off, to run until May 17
Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani inaugurated the 34th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) on Thursday. The exhibition, running under the theme 'From Engraving to Writing,' will run until May 17. It will be open daily from 9am to 10pm, and on Fridays from 3pm to 10pm. Sheikh Mohammed visited the exhibition pavilions, which includes 522 publishing houses from 43 countries. He also launched the Doha Magazine, returning to publication in a new look, as a cultural platform affiliated with Qatar's Ministry of Culture. The ongoing exhibition is the largest in history, in terms of participation. Officials said Palestine was taking part in the exhibition this year as a guest of honour, reflecting Qatar's steadfast commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause, particularly in the cultural sphere. Qatar's Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library HE Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari described DIBF as a gathering point for authors, publishers, and reading enthusiasts. He opined that printed books would remain resilient despite challenges posed by digital transformation. 'Each year, publishers and readers eagerly anticipate DIBF, thanks to broad participation from Arab and international publishing houses. Its program is distinguished by cultural depth, addressing important topics worthy of discussion, which enriches the fair,' he said. Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali Al Maadheed, Assistant Undersecretary for Cultural Affairs at Qatar's Ministry of Culture, emphasized that the fair was a key component to solidifying Qatar's cultural standing and enhance its leadership regionally and globally. 'This year's cultural programme is rich and diverse, featuring authors, books and intellectual symposiums. There will also be special events at the main theater, cultural salon, and a dedicated children's programme, alongside new publishing houses specializing in children's literature,' he said. Al Maadheed said artificial intelligence played a prominent role this year, from designing the fair's theme 'From Engraving to Writing' to hosting interactive activities and events. This move reflects the ministry's commitment to embracing technological advancements in the service of culture. He expressed pride in Doha magazine's return after a three-year hiatus. The magazine will be published in both print and digital formats and feature a variety of cultural programs, including podcasts, which align with the ministry's comprehensive cultural vision. DIBF Director Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain said this year's cultural program included more than 15 daily events, ranging from interactive workshops on writing, calligraphy, and technology to theatrical performances and special shows for children in the main theatre. He added that this year, the fair welcomed around 15 libraries from Halabouni Street in Syria for the first time. These libraries are among the most prestigious in the Arab world. This is part of a longstanding annual tradition where the fair highlights a distinctive cultural experience from an Arab country. In the past two editions, they had hosted Al Mutanabbi Street in Iraq and Al Azbakeya Wall in Egypt. Al Buainain also announced the launch of a new initiative focused on translation, aimed at enhancing the presence of Qatari books in global markets. Several international translation agencies are participating to facilitate agreements with Qatari publishers on translation rights and intellectual property, expanding the global reach of Qatari literature. The fair's catalog features 166,000 titles, complemented by numerous cultural and artistic events presented by leading intellectuals from across the Arab world. DIF is one of the oldest and largest book fairs in the region, attracting strong participation from Gulf and Arab nations, as well as other countries worldwide. The fair's first edition was held in 1972, under the supervision of Qatar National Library, and was organized biennially until 2002, when it transitioned to an annual format. The fair gained international stature after successfully attracting leading global publishing houses. Initially, 20 publishing houses participated, while the 33rd edition saw a record 515 publishers from 42 countries take part. Since 2010, the Doha International Book Fair has annually selected a guest of honour country, beginning with the United States, followed by Turkey, Iran, Japan, Britain, Germany, Russia, France, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. --- Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. Instagram - @qatarliving X - @qatarliving Facebook - Qatar Living YouTube - qatarlivingofficial
