[1] It was established in 2006 partially in response to the discontinuation of previous literary events, such as the Harare Book Fair and the Zimbabwe International Book Fair.
[6] The 2012 fair was held in conjunction with the 29th International Publishers Association Congress.
The fair included book launches, literary workshops, author interviews and other activities.
[7] The fair rebranded in 2015 after it moved from its original location in Cape Town.
[8] The event has received criticism for a focus on South African publishing markets instead of a wider Pan-African approach.