SILA's 29th Edition Welcomes Over 6.2 Million Visitors

The 29th Algiers International Book Fair (SILA) successfully concluded its activities on Saturday evening at the Palais des expositions des Pins maritimes in the capital. Recognized as Algeria’s premier cultural and literary event, this edition spanned ten days, achieving a record turnout of over 6.2 million visitors by Friday, November 6, according to the fair's commissioner, Mr. Mohamed Igureb. Organized under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the event hosted 1,567 publishing houses representing 51 countries, including 350 Algerian, 554 Arab, and 663 from other global regions. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the guest of honor, and approximately 300,000 titles across various literary, intellectual, and scientific domains were presented to the public.

This edition, themed “The future between the pages of a book,” was distinguished by an extensive cultural program that encompassed nearly 1,000 cultural, literary, and intellectual events. These events featured 220 authors from Algeria, the Arab world, Africa, Europe, and America. Discussions explored diverse literary genres such as novels, short stories, and poetry, alongside the intricate connections between writing, memory, and identity. The program also offered fresh interpretations of significant Algerian literary and intellectual works and provided a platform for young writers to engage in discussions on creation and experimentation. Renowned Algerian and international authors, thinkers, historians, and translators actively participated in these sessions.

Historical, political, and heritage themes were prominently featured throughout the program. Significant attention was directed toward just causes, notably the Palestinian cause and that of Western Sahara. National history, memory, and the rich diversity of Algerian heritage were also highlighted, underscoring Algeria's influential position in human history and civilization. Historical meetings marked the centenary of the North African Star's foundation and the 70th anniversary of the Soummam Congress, while also honoring Emir Abdelkader, the founder of the modern Algerian state, by emphasizing the historical, civilizational, and human dimensions of his legacy. Furthermore, African literature and thought were celebrated within the Salon's cultural framework, reinforcing Algeria's African identity, with the “Esprit de Banaf” space hosting encounters dedicated to African heritage, literature, manuscripts, and thought, featuring writers from across the continent.

The 29th edition also served as an occasion to pay tribute to various writers, publishers, and cultural figures, including the late Hamidou Messaoudi, a former commissioner of the Salon, translator Najat Khadda, historian Fouad Soufi, and critic and novelist Mohamed Maflah. On the final day, visitors continued to throng the pavilions, particularly the “Palestine” space, with literary and religious works being among the items purchased. The fair also welcomed national ministries, institutions, and organizations, which contributed through their pavilions and cultural activities, including the Ministry of Culture and Arts, the National People's Assembly, the Council of the Nation, the National Office of Copyright and Related Rights, the High Council of the Arabic Language, and the High Commission for Amazighity.