Africa’s $18.5 Billion Book Industry: Libraries, AI, and Cultural Growth

In the heart of Nairobi, the McMillan Memorial Library holds significant economic potential: books and knowledge can be the key to the region’s growth. The institution has been serving as a cultural center for more than 90 years and is part of a network of about 8,000 public libraries on the African continent.

According to UNESCO estimates, by 2025 the African book industry could reach $18.5 billion, provided that policies are improved and investments are attracted. By 2023 its volume stood at around $7 billion, accounting for about 5.4% of the world book market, which is estimated at $129 billion.

UNESCO’s report notes that weak regulation, the absence of tax incentives, and dependence on imported books hinder growth. It is recommended to introduce national book policies that will raise literacy, regulate the circulation of books, and incentivize key players in the industry.

Africa’s Potential and the Role of Public Libraries

“Today, most names of African literary authors are more well-known outside the continent than within it. They are known in their own country, but they do not circulate between other countries, and this is a problem.”

Ramirez also noted that the African book industry “is thriving from untapped potential,” and the continent can harness this momentum if countries implement UNESCO’s proposed steps.

The report emphasizes the role of public libraries in strengthening educational and cultural environments. It is necessary to strengthen governance and funding frameworks for libraries across the continent, especially in rural areas, to support a holistic book ecosystem.

“It needs to start with the community,”

Ananda also notes that the McMillan Memorial Library is currently undergoing restoration to improve infrastructure and provide digital access to reading materials with support from the non-profit organization Book Bunk and funding from the local government.

The vast majority of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population is young: about 70% of people are under 30. Publishers and distributors are looking to capitalize on this dynamic, citing the continent’s festival movement and digitalization.

“UNESCO’s report notes that each year around 270 literary festivals and book fairs take place on the continent, many of which focus on children’s publications. It also notes growth in the production of electronic books and audiobooks.”

“The new generation of creators today seeks to move into the future with what belongs to them, and no one will tell them how to tell this African story,” Ramirez noted.

“One of the ways to preserve Africa’s rich culture and diversity is to tell its stories in native languages and translate them into a larger number of the continent’s languages.”

It is also emphasized that about 90% of the content UNESCO receives from partner organizations is provided in English, but artificial intelligence can help translate materials into different languages and dialects, making them more accessible to communities.

“Africa is a continent with limited regulation in the field of artificial intelligence; this is an opportunity to create its own safeguards and protect creators’ rights.”

In concluding, UNESCO’s report, part of the Creative Economies of Africa study series, emphasizes that culture must occupy a central place in sustainable development and stimulate the continent’s economic growth.