In October, Dakar opens its pages October 2, 2026

Between the Dakar International Book and Teaching Materials Fair (FILDAK) and the Dakar Women’s Book Fair, the Senegalese capital is offering ten days of book celebrations, from October 15 to 24, 2026.

There are months that have their own color. In Dakar, October 2026 will be that of paper, ink and conversations that drag on around a bookseller’s table. In the space of ten days, the capital hosts two major events: the 18th edition of the Dakar International Book and Teaching Materials Fair (FILDAK), then the 5th edition of the Dakar Women’s Book Fair. Two events, two atmospheres, the same conviction: here, the book is a social affair.

It is on the Esplanade of the Grand Théâtre Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose that FILDAK will kick off, from October 15 to 19. For its 18th edition, the fair chose a slogan without false modesty, “Dakar, pulsating heart of the book!” ”, and a theme that sounds like a program: “Library, transmission, sovereignty”.

A few days later, on October 22, 23 and 24, the Dakar Women’s Book Fair took over at the Place de la Nation, hosted by Amina Seck with the association Les Cultur’Elles (Women, Arts and Cultures). Five editions already, and an identity that asserts itself: highlighting the voices of women, in all their diversity.

The theme of this edition is striking in its formula: “Matrimony in action: inherit, write, transform”. The term “matrimony”, which has long remained discreet, designates the cultural heritage transmitted by women, which literary history has too often left in the shadows. The accompanying action verb announces a show that does not simply want to commemorate, but which intends to bring this heritage to life and extend it.

Two guests set the tone. In the spotlight, Véronique Tadjo, writer, poet and visual artist of Ivorian origin, major voice of French-speaking African literature. And a guest country, **Mali**, whose literary and oral tradition no longer has to prove its richness. This dialogue between Dakar and Bamako, between writing and orality, promises fruitful encounters.

Arame NDIAYE