The Algiers International Book Fair (SILA) concluded its latest edition with record-breaking attendance, solidifying its position as a leading cultural event in Algeria.
According to Fair Commissioner Mohamed Iguerb, the event welcomed over 5.6 million visitors by Friday, a number that surpassed 6 million by the fair’s closing day. Thursday, November 6th, proved to be the busiest day, attracting over 850,000 visitors, highlighting the Algerian public’s strong interest in reading and literature.
Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Bendouda, praised the impressive figures, describing them as evidence of Algerians’ thirst for reading. She affirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting public publishing houses and promoting reading as a daily cultural practice. The ministry also announced early preparations for the next edition of the fair.
The Algiers International Book Fair, considered the largest cultural event in Algeria, featured 1258 exhibitors across 565 pavilions. It showcased 140,000 titles and hosted 530 diverse cultural activities, reinforcing its standing among the world’s most prominent book fairs in terms of visitor numbers.
During the closing ceremony, seven prominent literary and intellectual figures were honored, including Abdelhamid Bouraiou, Makhlouf Amer, Nadia Nouacer, Abdelhamid Chakil, Habiba Mohammedi, Christiane Chaulet Achour (received by Afifa Beradahi), and Bachir Khalf (received by novelist Lakhdar Chouar).
The winners of the second edition of the ‘My First Book’ award were also announced. Walid Sairi won for his Arabic novel ‘Wings of Rebellion,’ Khadija Ben Krou for ‘For Your Face, Oh Freedom’ in Tamazight, Abdelmalek Azaoui for ‘A Contre Flux’ in French, and Salma Chergui for her English novel ‘The Knight of the Sea.’
DZWatch will continue to provide coverage of cultural events in Algeria.
