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UNESCO has launched the first-ever comprehensive mapping of Africa’s book industry, revealing a sector brimming with untapped potential. The new report outlines a roadmap to transform the continent’s publishing industry, with projected revenues of up to $18.5 billion if key reforms are implemented. 

"This new UNESCO report demonstrates the need to strengthen public policies for books and reading so that African stories can be written, published, and read,” said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. “Investments are therefore needed to propel the continent in the wake of its great authors and talents."

While the continent is home to just one bookshop per 116,000 people and one public library per 189,000 inhabitants, digital platforms are playing a transformative role in expanding access – Snapplify and Akoobooks, for example, offer e-books, audiobooks, and online sales, overcoming geographical and infrastructure limitations, the report notes.
 
Africa’s book industry is underrepresented on the global stage, accounting for only 5.4% of global publishing revenue. Africa’s book industry faces a significant trade deficit. In 2023, the continent imported books worth an estimated $597 million while exporting books to the value of $81 million. The report also reveals that 90% of African countries still lack specific legislation to support the book industry beyond basic copyright and legal deposit laws.