On Why I Began Building a Tech Enabled Self- Publishing in Africa for African Writers
I have always believed that Africans hold the key to solving their own challenges, leveraging technology to create transformative solutions. As a writer, I often wondered why so many African writers struggle to earn from their works. Years ago, when I told my father I wanted to be a writer, he asked me to name an African writer who had become wealthy from their craft. I could only mention a handful.
It wasn’t until I began writing and publishing that I uncovered the deep-seated issues hindering contemporary African writers from monetizing their talent. This realization inspired me to create IGP (Itan Global Publishing), a self-publishing platform designed to empower African writers by connecting their works to a global audience that recognizes and values their creativity.
It all Started with My Earlier Frustration with the Publishing Eco-System
As a writer, my journey into book publishing and distribution has been fraught with challenges. These frustrations, alongside those shared by other writers, ultimately inspired the founding of ITAN. I recall the excitement of publishing my first book on Amazon KDP, A Rough Diamond. It’s a heartfelt story that illustrates how pain, coupled with a positive attitude, can transform us into better individuals. At the time, publishing on Amazon was relatively straightforward. Numerous book blogs were eager to feature new titles for free, providing valuable exposure. However, those opportunities have since dwindled.
A Publishing Solution Tailored for African Writers, by African Writers
After releasing my book, I began receiving positive reviews that drew even more readers. Yet, at the end of the month, my royalty earnings didn’t align with the 70% royalty rate I expected. To my dismay, I discovered I had been placed on the 35% royalty plan. Further investigation revealed a harsh reality: writers publishing from the African continent are ineligible for the 70% royalty option. To compound the issue, 30% of sales revenue is withheld as tax at the source. Here’s how the breakdown looks for a book priced at $3:
- Price: $3
- Tax (30%): -$0.90
- Royalty (35% of remaining $2.10): $0.735
This means that for every $3 book sold, the African writer earns just $0.735. Meanwhile, Amazon takes $1.365, and the U.S. government claims $0.90 in taxes.
To add insult to injury, Amazon does not transfer royalties directly to local African bank accounts. Most African writers resort to using U.S.-based fintech platforms to receive their meager earnings. However, these platforms often impose a payment threshold of $1,000 before funds can be transferred. Over time, account maintenance fees gradually erode these earnings, leaving many writers disillusioned and forced to abandon their publishing dreams.
Adding to the frustration, Amazon has been known to shut down accounts without explanation. Writers’ appeals for reconciliation are often ignored, leaving their hard-earned royalties inaccessible. These challenges are not unique to me; many African writers share similar experiences.
Challenges Closer to Home
In Nigeria, platforms like the now-defunct OkadaBooks have served as local book aggregators. Unfortunately, they too face significant hurdles, making it difficult for African literature to thrive internationally. The primary issue with local aggregators lies in their audience targeting. While Africans are passionate readers and writers, economic constraints often limit their ability to pay premium prices for high-quality literature.
For African literature to gain international recognition, these platforms must look beyond the continent to attract audiences who can afford to pay for exceptional work. Moreover, African books must be presented in formats that cater to diverse global audiences. Accessibility is key; for instance, offering translations into languages like Chinese, Hindi, French, German, Italian, and Spanish would significantly broaden their reach.
The Vision of ITAN
ITAN was born out of a desire to address the invisibility of African works in the global literary market. While a handful of African diaspora writers have achieved success, there is an urgent need to democratize self- publishing success and extend opportunities to underrepresented writers on the continent. These talented individuals deserve a platform that showcases their work to a global audience and allows them to thrive.
ITAN is here to offer the following solutions:
- Showcase African Stories Globally: By bridging the gap between African writers and international readers, ITAN brings untold African stories to the world.
- Empower Writers Financially: ITAN ensures writers earn fair value for their creativity. Our goal is for the least amount an African writer earns monthly to be $1,000, with the potential to earn $10,000 or more.
- Democratize Publishing Success: We aim to make publishing success accessible to all African writers, not just a select few.
- Promote Discoverability: By providing tools for translating works into multiple languages and employing advanced digital marketing strategies using generative AI, ITAN expands the reach of African literature to diverse audiences.
ITAN Publishing Offers a better Deal For African Writers
I envision a future where African writers’ creativity is not just recognized but celebrated globally. ITAN is committed to turning this vision into reality by empowering writers, amplifying African voices, and spreading their stories worldwide.
We’re set to launch in the first quarter of 2025, and it promises to be a game-changer for African writers.
If you are a writer, and African, don’t miss out on this opportunity, join the train and visit
to sign up and join the waitlist for early access.
Don’t miss this groundbreaking opportunity to transform your writing career.
