Ake Arts & Book Festival

Why Africa Needs Feminist Giants (Panel Discussion)

Although African feminists are often written out of history, social media makes that impossible in the modern day. With increased access to information and allies, the feminist movement has gained new ground on the African continent. On this panel, Aisha Salaudeen will talk to Stella Nyanzi, Mona Eltahawy and Minna Salami about feminist activism and 

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Writing Queer, Writing Black (Panel Discussion)

This panel takes a look at the challenges but also the gifts that come with writing when you are a black creative in the LGBTQI+ community in Africa and the African Diaspora. Chaired by Chiké Frankie Edozien, Nakhane, Unoma Azuah and Nicole Dennis-Benn will explore creative freedom, censorship and the unique challenges that arise from 

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How Efficiently Can Technology Solve Africa’s Problems? (Panel Discussion)

Hosted by Charles Idem, this panel will determine the efficacy of technology in solving some of Africa’s developmental problems. Can leapfrogging really happen when much of Africa still grapples with poor access to electricity and internet connectivity? Titi Akinsanmi, Timi Ajiboye and Temie Giwa-Tubosun will address this important question and share their experiences and achievements 

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Social Media, the Truth and the Threat of State Policing (Panel Discussion)

Social media has revolutionised the way we access information and communicate. However, it is sometimes misused to circulate lies and slander, often with no consequences. How do we redefine our relationship with the truth in the social media age? Chaired by Ruona Meyer, Yemi Adamolekun, Ayo Obe and Hopewell Chin'ono examine the implications of the 

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Agba Meji: Yoruba Comedy on Social Media

Feyikemi Niyi-Olayinka (of the Oleku fame) will sit in conversation with two comedians who keep us in hysterics with their skits and antics on Youtube and social media. @Oli_ekun and Agba Ekun are the reigning kings of Yoruba comedy.

Free

When African History Meets Futurism: (Panel Discussion)

Nnedi Okorafor describes Africanfuturism as being “directly rooted in African culture, history, mythology does not privilege or centre the West”. Hosted by Abdulkareem Baba Aminu, Nnedi Okorafor, Marlon James and Roye Okupe will talk about the worlds that they have created and the process of mining African legends, folklore and history to create art.

Free

Decolonising Africa on Feminist Time (Panel Discussion)

This panel will explore the evolution of Feminism in Africa. From working on a Charter for African Feminists to Environmental activism and creating art that pushes boundaries and redefines female power, feminism in Africa continues to evolve. Jessica Horn will chair a conversation with Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Nana Akosua Hanson and Zulaikha Patel on the milestones 

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Emerging Technologies for Development in Africa (Panel Discussion)

The development of technological infrastructure should usher in an era of digital jobs, as African countries put appropriate regulations in place to protect their citizens and potential investors. Jerome Okolo will chair a discussion with Isma'il Shomala and Estelle Dogbo and examine emerging technologies in Africa, and what governments need to do to attract the 

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Publishing While African (Panel Discussion)

The brave individuals who are rebuilding the publishing industry in Africa deserve our gratitude. More people are writing books that offer important perspectives and raise the self esteem of African children so why is the publishing industry that serves African readers still so dysfunctional? Molara Wood will be chatting with Thabiso Mahlape, Louise Umutoni-Bower and 

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A Cultural Response to Coronavirus in Africa (Panel Discussion)

People across the globe are united in the battle to overcome a health crisis that has brought the world to its knees. A journalist, an artist and a Nollywood star tell us how they got through the darkest days of the pandemic. Eliza Anyangwe will be chatting to Victor Ehikhamenor, James Murua and Nse Ikpe-Etim 

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