Four Ghanaian writers in Sharjah are introducing their country’s rich literary heritage to international readers at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2026. Supported by Ghana’s Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates and the Sharjah Book Authority, their colourful stand is attracting visitors and challenging perceptions of Ghana as a country known mainly for gold and cocoa.
SHARJAH: Four Ghanaian writers in Sharjah are bringing their country’s storytelling traditions to a global audience at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2026, marking a significant moment for Ghana’s literary presence in the UAE.
Ruby Goka, Oswald Okaitei, Elizabeth-Irene Baitie and Emmanuel Mettle-Nunoo are showcasing Ghanaian literature through an initiative supported by the Consulate General of the Republic of Ghana in Dubai and the Northern Emirates and the Sharjah Book Authority.
Ghana’s first official participation at the fair represents an important opportunity to introduce its contemporary literary talent to international readers and publishing professionals.
Beyond gold and cocoa
Known internationally for its gold and cocoa, Ghana is using literature to present another dimension of its national identity.
Speaking exclusively to The Brew News, Ghanaian author and dentist Ruby Goka explained that the initiative offers writers an opportunity to challenge familiar perceptions of Africa.
“We wanted to use this opportunity to showcase our literary talents as well,” she said.
Goka, who has approximately 20 published books, primarily writes for children and young adults. She has previously participated in literary festivals in Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria, but described Sharjah as an opportunity to reach a wider global audience.
A colourful stand attracting international visitors
Ghana’s vibrant exhibition stand has become an attraction, featuring striking colours, traditional cultural imagery and displays celebrating the country’s identity.
According to Goka, the presentation reflects Ghanaian people’s appreciation of colour, visible in their traditional clothing, everyday fashion and book covers.
The eye-catching backdrop also promotes Ghana as a tourism destination while encouraging visitors to discover its literary traditions.
Goka explained that visitors frequently stop to photograph the stand before exploring the books on display.
Strong diplomatic support and community connections
Goka praised the support provided by Ghana’s diplomatic mission and the fair’s organisers, explaining that the arrangements allowed the authors to concentrate on engaging with readers.
The Ghanaian community in the UAE has also shown interest, with teachers, students and community members connecting with the visiting writers.
The authors are also using the occasion to strengthen cultural relationships and introduce younger audiences to Ghanaian storytelling.
Ghana’s literary diversity reaches new readers
Goka highlighted that Ghanaian authors produce literature in English and indigenous languages, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural traditions.
For Ghanaian writers in Sharjah, the exhibition offers more than international visibility. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate how African storytelling continues to evolve across generations.
The fair runs from November 4 to 15, 2026, at Expo Centre Sharjah.
Impact to expect
Ghana’s participation could strengthen literary exchanges between West Africa and the UAE, create new opportunities for Ghanaian authors and publishers, and encourage international readers to explore contemporary African literature beyond familiar cultural stereotypes.
