From Kente textiles to children’s books and contemporary literature, Ghana’s first participation at the 45th edition introduces readers to its literary voices and cultural traditions
Sharjah, November 15, 2026
Ghana made its debut at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026), bringing children’s books, contemporary literature and traditional stories to readers in Sharjah for the first time. The participation follows an initiative by the Ghanaian Consulate in Dubai, which identified an opportunity to introduce the country’s writers and literary heritage to the fair’s international audience.
The journey began when the Consulate General of Ghana in Dubai visited SIBF 2025 and noticed that Ghanaian publishers were not represented at the event. Recalling the moment, Kokui Selormey of the Ghanaian Consulate in Dubai said: “During our visit to last year’s Sharjah International Book Fair, we noticed that Ghana was missing from the remarkable gathering of international publishers and literary voices. We felt it was important to bring our writers and their stories to Sharjah, allowing readers here to experience Ghanaian literature and culture.”
That cultural introduction begins even before visitors pick up a book. The Ghanaian pavilion is adorned with vibrant Kente fabric, one of the country’s most recognisable textile traditions. Its colourful patterns and intricate designs give the exhibition space a distinct visual character, introducing visitors to Ghana’s artistic heritage while creating an inviting setting for discovering its literature.
A harvest of literary voices
Among the authors who represented Ghana was Oswald Okaitei, whose book First Harvest contributed to the country’s literary showcase. Ruby Yayra Goka, author of Mama’s Amazing Cover Cloth, brought another perspective through a story that evokes the cultural significance of textiles in Ghanaian life, where cloth can express identity, belonging and personal histories. Reflecting on the value of storytelling for younger audiences, Goka said: “For children, these books offer more than entertainment. They introduce ways to understand relationships, responsibility, courage and community through stories that make learning memorable and enjoyable.”
Elizabeth-Irene Baitie, an award-winning Ghanaian author known for her children’s books and young adult fiction, also joined the showcase. Her book Flying Up the Mountain introduces readers to the imaginative world that has earned her recognition in African children’s literature. Baitie expressed her excitement about participating in the fair.
Where folklore finds new wings
An essential part of Ghana’s literary identity lies in its enduring oral storytelling traditions. Long before stories reached print, they travelled through spoken word, communal gatherings, songs and performances, carrying humour, moral lessons and cultural knowledge from one generation to the next.
Among the country’s best-known folkloric figures is Ananse, the clever spider whose adventures explore human nature through wit, trickery and unexpected turns. Shared across generations and connected to wider West African and African diasporic storytelling traditions, Ananse tales remain a recognisable expression of Ghanaian folklore.
The pavilion’s illustrated books and adaptations of traditional folktales bring these narratives to younger generations in a contemporary form. Through memorable characters, colourful illustrations and unexpected adventures, children encountered stories that entertained them while introducing them to different cultural perspectives and values.
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