The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Rabat, Morocco, as the World Book Capital for 2026, following a recommendation from the World Book Capital Advisory Committee. In a recent statement, UNESCO highlighted Rabat's commitment to fostering the book industry and encouraging reading through its 54 publishing houses; it also hosts Africa's third-largest international book fair. Rabat aims to come up with various initiatives to improve access to books, bolster the local publishing sector, and advance literacy among all age groups and demographics, both nationally and internationally. The statement added that the celebrations are set to commence on April 23, 2026, coinciding with the World Book and Copyright Day. Source: Saudi Press Agency