A project of this nature has never been attempted before. The Rift is simultaneously a concept, a part of our collective origin story and a defining geological phenomena. It stretches from Ethiopia in the north to Mozambique in the South, shaping the contours of Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

 

This is a landmark book project, combining a wealth of imagery and essays to celebrate, educate, commemorate and highlight the significant history of the Rift, its present and the future.

 

As a photographer in Africa, Shem Compion never failed to feel a sense of awe when encountering the Rift’s various manifestations. Having photographed the Rift over 24 years, his striking images narrate and memorialize the many aspects of the Rift.

 

Contributions by highly respected and acclaimed authors educate, inspire and give credence to the Rift. These essays articulate and compliment the imagery – showcasing Africa like bever before.

 

This project is an in-depth visual celebration. It will be produced as a large format coffee table book, 33cm X 33cm (13” x 13”). There will be 350 signed, collectors’ editions, specially bound and presented in a cloth box. The standard print run will comprise 2500 copies. Advanced orders can be made and sponsorships discussed on a bespoke basis by contacting us at shemc4@me.com

 

The projected date for “books on shelves” is November 2025 - when books will be available via direct online sales as well as through select stores.

 

Shipping of books will reflect global market rate prices, with bulk shipping arrangements possible in Africa, North America, Asia and Europe.

 

The story of the Rift will be explored through chapters that feature its visual splendor interspersed with expert authors contributing their perspective on all aspects of the Rift. It will serve as a stunning conversation piece and an ideal

gift for anyone who shares a love of Africa, its ecosystems and its people’s.

 

The project goes beyond the individual enjoyment of the printed book by creating platforms for the book to stimulate discussion and learning among school children and others. By working through existing networks of conservation and community based organisations, we will host artist’s talks, using content from the book to encourage discourse about the sciences - from ecology to zoology - as well as the environmental and climate threats faced by the Rift.

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The number of educational events and books we will be able to provide to schools and community organisations will be based on sponsorships and the volume of books sold.

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This book celebrates and contemplates the Rift from various physical vantage points and other multiple dimensions. It has stoked a lifelong curiosity and humility in me, and I hope it will do the same for you and for the generations of people who will need to find their own narratives in this era of the Anthropocene.