LitFest Harare Celebrates Storytelling at 11th Annual Festival
The stage is set for the 11th edition of the LitFest Harare International Literature Festival, a vibrant celebration of storytelling and its impact on individuals and communities. Running from November 27 to 30 under the theme “Stories: The Measure of Life”, this year’s festival promises an engaging lineup of events and participants from across the globe.
“This festival is an opportunity to explore how narratives shape our understanding of the world and connect us to one another,” said Chirikure Chirikure, festival director, in a statement.
Diverse Lineup and Venues
The festival will feature renowned authors, poets, and thought leaders from Zimbabwe, Africa, and beyond. Activities will be hosted at key venues, including Nhaka Gallery and Alliance Française in Harare’s central business district, while the Harare City Library will accommodate workshops tailored for schools.
Notable participants include South African poets Nomonde Sky and Thabang Shai, Botswana’s Sidos and Dr. Lame Pusetso, as well as creatives and academics from Sierra Leone, Zambia, Kenya, Uganda, Sweden, the UK, and the US.
Workshops and Skill Development
The festival opens with a three-day pre-festival workshop led by Alison Ziki from Room to Read, South Africa. This session will mentor 12 authors of children’s literature. Additionally, an interactive workshop for young creatives and a skills development workshop for schools will take place at the Harare City Library.
The annual poetry slam is another highlight, where 20 poets will compete for top prizes.
Evenings of Art and Entertainment
Festival evenings will showcase a lively mix of music, spoken word, comedy, and theater, celebrating Zimbabwean culture alongside global influences. Featured performers include Sarungano, Victor Kunonga, Hope Masike, Bhutisi, and Thee Ammartian, among others.
Conversations on Storytelling
The festival’s discussion sessions, hosted at Alliance Française, will bring together creatives, academics, and critics to explore storytelling’s role in shaping identities and addressing social issues.
Bridging Cultures and Communities
LitFest Harare aims to inspire a love for literature while fostering dialogue on societal challenges through the lens of storytelling. “This festival celebrates creative expression in all its forms,” said Kudzanai Thondhlana, communications officer for LitFest Harare.
The 11th edition of the festival underscores the enduring power of stories to connect, inspire, and transform lives. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of literature and creativity.
