Prior to November 30, 2023, it was unthinkable that stakeholders in the publishing industry would be searching for  Okadabooks alternatives.

Sadly, this has been the case since the African self-publishing platform Okadabooks closed its virtual doors permanently, leaving a void in the publishing industry. Authors are now searching for new platforms to showcase their work, while readers are seeking alternative sources for engaging stories from talented writers.

Self-publishing is challenging. In fact, this report argues that 90% of self-published books sell less than 250 copies. Okadabooks provided an increased access to a wide range of readers. Furthermore, it simplified the publication and distribution of books for writers and readers on the African continent. Since its closure, new platforms have sprung up to ensure African writers can still sell their books and that readers can access books with ease. 

So, if you are seeking alternatives to Okadabooks, you’ve come to the right place. We have compiled a comprehensive list of options for publishing stakeholders. Enumerated below is our ultimate list of Top 7 Okadabooks alternatives for 2024.

 

1. Pabpub

Phoenix Award Books Publications (Pabpub) is the closest alternative to Okadabooks, with similar features and more that help writers distribute their books to readers. Pabpub is described as a hybrid publisher, infusing self-publishing with traditional publishing in what can be pitched as Amazon Print-on-Demand meets Cassava Republic Press. 

The platform has two publishing options;

1. The self-publishing option called the Fluid Package
2. Traditional publishing Diamond Package

The fluid package, which is the most popular, gives the writers complete control of their book, from covers to formatting and marketing, allowing PABPUB to serve only as a source for the book. The Diamond Package (currently on hold) uses all of the traditional publishing features, giving the publishing platform more control over publication and distribution. 

Pabpub currently boasts of being able to provide copies as small as one or as many as hundreds, depending on the reader’s needs. What makes it even better is that a delivery fee is incurred less than that of print-on-demand sites like Amazon.

Readers also have the option to read free books on the Pabpub website or pay small amounts for paid books with the platform’s digital coins, Pubcoins. This Okadabooks alternative also allows readers to use their simple subscription plans to have all the books at their fingertips.

 

2. Iko Africa

Iko is one of the newest platforms on the block dedicated to pushing storytelling in Africa.  It allows writers to share their stories with a built-in audience of readers passionate about African narratives. Readers can explore a diverse collection of literary works and discover new voices. The platform also encourages collaboration by allowing users to connect with writers and other members of the African literary community, fostering conversations and growth in the creative space.

Features of Iko Africa include:

• Social and Serial Publishing

On Iko Africa, writers can share short or long-form content and serialized works. This is an excellent option for writers whose abilities lie in posting chapters of their writing in parts. Authors can build a loyal readership awaiting each new instalment, encouraging readers to stay connected and engaged with the story over time.

• Creator Rewards

Writers can get paid for their content, helping writers get an income from their skills. 

• Community Engagement: 

Direct interaction between writers and readers.

• Writing Resources: 

Offers writing classes, interviews, editorial support, and a curated selection of standout works.

Iko Africa is an innovative social publishing platform that empowers African writers by offering a space for them to share their stories, and they are taking steps forward in revitalizing African writing and providing greater visibility for diverse stories.

 

Read: Ways to get ideas for your story. 

 

3. Bambooks

Bambooks is a reading platform in Nigeria for books. It serves as a digital library that offers users access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and comics from any internet-connected device, including mobile phones, tablets, and computers.

They also offer a range of services to writers, helping them publish and promote their work effectively. Writers can upload manuscripts to the platform, making them instantly available to Bambooks’ broad reader base. This digital publishing process ensures authors’ accessibility and exposure. Additionally, writers can monetise their content, earning revenue from book sales and subscription-based access.

 Unlike many Okadabooks alternatives, Bambooks also helps promote these works to a broad audience, assisting writers to gain visibility. Authors can engage directly with their readers, fostering a loyal community and receiving valuable feedback.

 

4. Ebony Story

Ebony Story is an online platform that has been around for a while. Founded in 2017, they are dedicated to African storytelling, offering a wide variety of free, serialised fiction or online novels. While it allows readers to access stories across genres such as romance, drama, fantasy, and thrillers, all tailored to African experiences and narratives, it also empowers writers by providing a platform to publish their work and engage with readers. 

The platform encourages reader-writer interaction through comments and feedback on each chapter, fostering a community of African literature enthusiasts.

 

5. Africa Read

Africa Read is a digital platform that promotes African literature by providing a space for writers to publish their works and for readers to access a wide range of stories. It emphasizes showcasing African voices and narratives across fiction, poetry, and short stories. 

The platform is designed to celebrate African storytelling, allowing authors to share their unique perspectives and for readers to discover diverse African stories. Africa Read supports both emerging and established writers.

One of the platform’s primary offerings is its user-friendly app, which categorises various books, including genres like business, children’s literature, novels, and textbooks. For aspiring authors, Africa Read provides tools for self-publishing, allowing them to bring their work to life without the barriers typically associated with traditional publishing. They also offer marketing resources and guidance for authors, helping them effectively promote their work. 

Africa Read promotes reading not just for enjoyment but as a means to enhance skills and knowledge, catering to the evolving needs of readers in a digital landscape.

 

6. African Books

AfricanBooks.com is an online Christian publishing platform established in 2021, dedicated to amplifying the African voice within the global narrative. Their primary mission is to provide a space for African writers and publishers, offering quality African content through their digital bookstore.

They offer competitive pricing that aligns with current African market rates, ensuring accessibility for readers. Additionally, they support multiple currencies and provide African payment options to facilitate user transactions based on the continent.

African Books helps authors benefit from the platform by providing accessible royalty earnings, which they can receive in African bank accounts and mobile money platforms.

 

7. Itanile

Although Itanile is predominantly a literary magazine focused on promoting African writers regardless of their career stage, it also encourages the publication of e-books on its site, encouraging writers to share their works with the Itanile reader base. 

To sell your ebooks, you must fill in the details on their website, and then you can enjoy the features accorded by Itanile. 

 

Why This Is Great News For Everyone  Seeking Alternatives to Okadabooks in 2024 

While Okadabooks is gone for good, their vision of ensuring writers can find ways to publish and market their works still lives on in the aforementioned platforms. Each of these Okadabooks alternatives is dedicated to one cause—ensuring writers find a home for their stories to be accessed by eager readers waiting to read.  

Are you a bookseller, an author or a reader? Which of these platforms will you be trying out?