There is no reason why we should not have a thriving publishing and toy-making industry that addresses the needs of our children and their families.
We aim to make the Afri-kids festival a platform that informs, entertains and promotes networking,” says Elinor Sisulu, founder of Puku and Festival Director of the Puku Afri-kids Festival.
This is the view of Sisulu, ahead of the Puku Afri-kids Festival, to take place at SGI-South Africa Community Centre in Parkwood, Johannesburg on November 26.
The fest targets children, teenagers, parents and grandparents, caregivers and educators, writers and cultural activists, which would encompass:
-Children’s entertainment includes storytelling by acclaimed storyteller Gcina Mhlophe, Zanele Ndlovu and others, puppet shows by Segosametsi-A-Afrika,
– An exhibition/mini-market for producers of local toys, books and games to showcase their products;
– Conversations facilitated by Lebo Mashile and Nomvuyo Mzamane,
– Book launches and author Conversations – Siya Masuku and Bontle Senne,
– A strong environmental focus creating awareness amongst children and
– Catering for children with special needs.
The main themes of the Conversations that will take place in morning programme will be ‘Are we raising our children to be creators or consumers?’ and ‘Afri-kids Content: Industry or Illusion?’
The discussions will focus on the kinds of books, toys and games we want to promote for our children.
This will include content for children with special needs and how to promote environmental awareness through books and toys. The second part of the conversation will focus on creators and producers – marketing and promotion, networking.
Participants will include people who have been actively involved in the business of edutainment.
The launch of a brand new book Siyafunda isiZulu by debut author Siya Masuku will take place in the afternoon.
The Exhibition/Mini-market will include Afrocentric, multilingual products and content that entertains, educates and affirms children. Products will be on display and available for purchase by Momppy Mpoppy, Puo, Ntombenhle Dolls and Vhutambo Eduplay.
It is supported by REDISA, whose Director Stacey Davidson says, “it’s an initiative focused on understanding the value that can be derived from waste, REDISA is committed to educating the youth about the importance of recycling and reusing products and this partnership with Puku allows us to do that in a fun and engaging way.”
It for FREE. MAHALA. GRATIS!
It begins from 10am until 6pm.
