BKO magazine to relaunch in March

Publisher Phehello Mofokeng has confirmed that literary magazine BKO will make a comeback in March 2020, with four editions per year planned. The periodical reached cult status in book circles between 2004 and 2008, but was sadly discontinued.

After many recent calls for resurrection, Mofokeng believes the market is finally ready: ‘There has not been a time like this in African literature – a time where so many Africans are active participants in their own literature; as independent publishers, authors, independent booksellers, readers and other active role players in the industry. There has not been such a time of high production and consumption of literature by Africans on this continent. Every other day in Johannesburg alone, there are many book launches, book events and readings and a large contingent of book clubs.’

The title is a play on ‘Biko’, a nod to the founders’ Black Consciousness roots and content philosophy. According to Mofokeng, BKO will have the usual mix of poetry, short stories, flash fiction and author profiles, but promises, ‘It will be sexier, brighter and more daring …’

Readers will be able to find the print edition at Xarra Books and Book Circle Capital in Johannesburg, and at Exclusive Books branches in Bloemfontein and Cape Town, Waterfront. BKO will also be available online at www.bkomagazine.co.za.