APNET and PABA Memorandum of Understanding
Made between
The AFRICAN PUBLISHERS NETWORK (APNET)
Represented by
Mr. Richard Crabbe (Chairman)
And
The PAN AFRICAN BOOKSELLERS ASSOCIATION (PABA)
Represented by
Mrs Ronke Orimalade (Chairperson)
In further of their desired objectives for strengthening the African book industry and making books more affordable and accessible to the peoples of Africa.
APNET and PABA
Recognizing the immense potential for the growth of the African book industry.
Conscious of the policies and problems that hinder such growth.
Conversant with their unique and strategic positions in book provision and national development.
Acknowledging the fact that they share certain common objectives regarding the strengthening of he book industry.
Do hereby affirm their desire and need to work together to achieve these objectives.
Further to this, APNET and PABA agree to jointly develop strategies for:
- Advocacy
- Training
- Reading Promotion
- Terms of Trade
In relation to Advocacy
APNET and PABA shall encourage the formation of their respective associations at national level, so that these national associations will, as far as it is practicable, jointly advocate for:
- The establishment of national book policies in all African countries.
- The removal of all forms of taxation on books and the inputs for the production of books
(computers, films, paper, inks, etc) by signing and adhering to the Florence Agreement
and its Nairobi protocol on free flow of information.
- The involvement of booksellers in book provision programmes.
- Conditions for tenders for book supply and book provision that build national capacity
and strengthen the national book chain.
- Low rates for postage and freight of books.
- The removal of any policy and the eradication of any practice (e.g. piracy) that can
adversely affect the African book industry.
In relation to Training
APNET and PABA agree to:
- Involve each other in relevant workshops and seminars.
- Hold joint training programmes where necessary and feasible.
In relation to Reading Promotion
APNET and PABA agree to:
- Develop joint marketing and promotion activities, to enhance the general awareness of
books available in the market, and to make books more accessible to readers, through
favourable discounts, publicity and special offers.
- Sensitise government officials and civil society on the dangers of focusing only on
textbooks.
- Increase government purchase of general books for schools and libraries.
- Assist to establish, promote and sustain school and community libraries.
In relation to Terms of Trade
APNET and PABA agree that:
- Publishers are the producers of books and booksellers are the retailers.
- Minimum discount of 25% be given to booksellers.
- Minimum credit period of 60 days be given to booksellers.
- They encourage their members to adhere to Codes of Conduct and draw up one where
none exists.
Therefore, APNET and PABA strongly recommend this document for implementation by their respective national associations.
Agreed and signed at Harare 7th August 2001