Rwanda could unlock publishing potential with upcoming book policy

Stakeholders in Rwanda’s publishing industry have long lamented the absence of a national book policy, citing issues such as poor sales, limited market guidance, and a lack of protection for authors. For the first time, a comprehensive framework could be in place in 2026, The New Times has learnt. ALSO READ: Why Rwanda needs book policy The long-awaited National Book Policy is expected to provide clear rules and standards for authors, publishers, and distributors, helping to professionalize the sector and unlock its potential. This policy has been prioritized under the second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) as part of a legal framework for managing Rwanda’s book industry, by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE). Already, consultations are underway among key institutions to align their vision. Key stakeholders includen MINUBUMWE and the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA). ALSO READ: New literacy campaign targets 700,000 by 2029 Claude Nizeyimana, the Director of National Library Services, said the new policy will “promote literary creation, establish a robust legal framework for protecting authors’ rights, and offer ways to ease the business of books.” According to him, the policy will also expand book distribution across the country, introduce training for industry professionals, and ensure a sustainable ecosystem. Nizeyimana added that establishing a regulatory body is crucial because “books play a crucial role in preserving the history, culture, and heritage of our nation for future generations. They also contribute significantly to lifelong education and personal development.” ALSO READ: Writers weigh in on Rwanda’s reading culture For authors, the absence of a policy has long been felt. Braddock le Sege Rwagasani, who writes about politics and governance, stressed that the framework would guide the publishing business beyond intellectual property law. He argued that it will also bring much-needed ethical clarity. “The book policy not only guides the business and boosts investment but also provides extensive guidelines for writing a book. At the moment, anyone can write a book anyhow, in any language, without guiding ethics, and then publish it,” he said. Rwagasani believes that, if implemented, the policy will strengthen this part of Rwanda’s creative industry, positioning it as a contributor to economic growth. ALSO READ: Rwandan man who's read 2000 books on the power of reading Nizeyimana echoed this perspective, but he also stressed vigilance in content regulation. He pointed out that Rwanda’s history, especially the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, requires sensitivity in publishing. “Care must be taken to prevent misinformation or publications that could mislead the population and hinder national unity,” he said. Beyond content regulation, he highlighted challenges to building a strong reading culture, from limited libraries and bookstores to high costs of book printing. “A well-crafted policy will create access channels reaching from the family level to villages, sectors, districts, and beyond, making books more accessible to all,” he explained. ALSO READ: How best can parents inspire their children to read? Why it took so long The work on the National Book Policy began as early as 2013, spearheaded by the then Rwanda Library Services under Kigali Public Library. But the process stalled due to institutional reshuffles, shifting responsibilities between the Ministry of Sports and Culture, the Ministry of Youth and Arts, and other cultural entities. Nizeyimana explained that Rwanda’s deep-rooted oral tradition also played a role in delaying literacy-focused policies. “While this rich oral heritage offered numerous benefits, it also impacted the development of literacy, reading, and writing skills,” he said. He added that drafting the policy has been complicated by institutional restructurings, though progress is now steadier. “We are trying our best to elaborate the policy and wish to have it finalized ideally by the end of this 2025/2026 fiscal year. The launch will take place in a timely manner,” Nizeyimana said. ALSO READ: Declining reading culture: What role can parents, guardians play to boost reading? African book economy The policy’s development comes at a time when Africa’s publishing industry is struggling to find its place on the global stage. Although the continent accounts for only 5.4 per cent of global publishing revenue, it imports far more books than it exports. In 2023 alone, Africa imported books worth $597 million but exported just about $81 million. Yet the potential is vast. UNESCO estimates that Africa’s book industry could reach $18.5 billion in revenue with the right reforms, particularly in the educational publishing sector, which already makes up 70 per cent of the global market. A recent UNESCO report titled “The African Book Industry: Trends, Challenges & Opportunities for Growth” outlined three key interventions: updating legislation and copyright enforcement, integrating publishing into industrial strategies while supporting local publishers, and expanding readership through libraries, digital publishing, and reading campaigns. For Rwanda, the forthcoming National Book Policy is expected to align with these recommendations. In practice, it could help foster a strong reading culture, enhance literacy, strengthen local publishing, and support the creative economy, which are all crucial steps in building a knowledge-based society.

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Rwanda could unlock publishing potential with upcoming book policy