Jama Musse Jama, the founding director of the Hargeysa International Book Fair, addresses the enduring influence of orality on modern cultural production in Somali regions and beyond. He examines the challenges and transformations that arise as societies simultaneously navigate oral and written cultures. The keynote is followed by a conversation with poet and author Lubi Barre, whose work deals with Black experiences in Europe, with a particular interest in artistic practice.

Due to the 2024 Berlin Marathon, between 27–29 September there are road closures in the area. HKW is fully accessible via public transport—S-Bahn (Hauptbahnhof) and U-Bahn (Bundestag)—and via bike or on foot.