EAST LONDON– The Green Basket Group is launching its first-ever Literature Festival from 29 October to 01 November 2025 across various venues in Vincent, East London. The festival aims to revive a love for reading and creative expression in a society increasingly focused on social media.
Formed in February 2025, the Green Basket Group promotes all forms of literature written, visual, musical and performance art. The upcoming festival is its first major public event, with a mission to inspire communities to reconnect with the power of storytelling.
Co-founder Thabang Mmutlane said the festival is a response to the growing lack of reading culture in many cities. “We know there are few cities where literature is celebrated and East London is one of them. With support from Buffalo City Municipality (BCM), we’re hoping to change that.”
The four-day event will feature book launches, author talks, educational workshops and creative performances. One of the highlights is a book launch by Bishop Mpendulo Zondi, among other local authors. The festival also puts a strong focus on young people, with school learners and teachers invited to take part in activities designed to promote a lifelong love of books.
“We want children to take their first steps with books not social media,” Mmutlane added. “Even if people don’t yet understand the importance of literature, we hope they’ll begin to see its value.”
In addition with a mix of established voices and new talent, the Green Basket Literature Festival hopes to become an annual celebration that encourages reading, creativity and community engagement.
Photograph: Supplied
