Zimbo Jam

Professor Ngwabi Bhebhe, Vice-Chancellor of the Midlands State University (MSU), speaks at the opening of the Zimbabwe International Book Fair (ZIBF) 2012 Indaba on July 30, 2012. He delivered the keynote address and challenged African Writers to not limit their canvas to the African continent.

He bemoaned the trend where writers focussed on money and are less and less critical as they pursue profitability. "There is a need for deeper thinking and a stronger conciousness," he said.

The theme of the Book Fair this year is African Literature in the Global & Digital Era. Professor Bhebhe highlighted the lack of real access to the Internet as a factor holding back African writers and readers from taking full advantage of the digital age.

Other speakers at the Indaba are The Honourable Lazarus Dokora, Deputy Minister of Education, Sport, Arts & Culture, Professor Maurice Vambe, Mr Advice Viriri, Mr Tavengwa Gwekwerere, Miss Rudo Nyangulu, My Kay Shiri, Mrs Josephine Muganiwa, Ms. Mass Tapfuma, Professor Katy Khan, Dr Thokozile Chitepo, Mr Mangeya, Mr Tagwirei, Dr V.G. Chivaura, Mr Blazio Tafirei, Mr Greenfield Ghilongo, Mrs Sibongile Jele, Chief Superintendent Ever Mlilo, Mr Felix Moyo, Dr Edgar Mberi, Mr Ivan Bachisi, Ms Tendai Mangena, Dr X.F. Caresle and Mr Fungai Tichawangana.

The Book Fair itself opens to the public on Wednesday, August 1 and runs until Saturday, August 4, 2012.

:: See more pictures from the Indaba in our Jam Central Album