As a publisher and author, I followed Umushyikirano 20 closely, paying attention to what its discussions mean for those of us who work with words and ideas. Over two days, several key themes emerged that highlight the profound role of narrative in nation-building. ALSO READ: Umushyikirano: Over 80% of 2024 resolutions implemented, says minister Security and education: The stories that shape us One of the strongest messages from Umushyikirano 20 was that national security begins with citizens—rooted in values taught at home and a love for the country passed down through generations. Security is first formed in the imagination of a child who reads about courage, sacrifice, and belonging. It is reinforced in classrooms where Rwandan history is taught with honesty and pride. ALSO READ: RGB boss concerned over ‘declining citizen participation’ As writers, every book we publish either strengthens or weakens the values that hold a nation together. By creating content that teaches children to love Rwanda and understand its history, we are performing a form of security work. ALSO READ: Umushyikirano: Rwandans weigh in on progress, what needs to change This is the power of ink: it shapes the minds of those who will defend, lead, or choose to build their country. Yet Umushyikirano 20 also exposed painful realities: 21% of pregnant girls are not in school, 13% are absent from primary, and 8% from secondary education. These figures reflect gaps in awareness, values, and protection. As publishers and authors, we must acknowledge that we are part of this challenge. We have failed to write books that instil national values, educate girls about their bodies and rights, or inspire them to pursue their futures. We need stories that normalize ambition, education, and self-respect—and media that protects children rather than exploits them. Education is not confined to classrooms. It is also what children read at home—the content they consume and the narratives they internalize. To truly safeguard the next generation, we must create content that values them. The scarcity of age-appropriate good books in Ikinyarwanda undermines both cultural identity and language proficiency. It is urgent to produce local stories that reflect Rwandan realities and nurture pride in Ikinyarwanda as an essential part of who we are. Our responsibility is clear: if we do not create the stories that shape our children’s values, others will—and those stories may not serve Rwanda’s interests. Creative industries and the power of ink One of the most encouraging takeaways from Umushyikirano 20 was the recognition that creative industries are legitimate economic opportunities. For too long, writing, filmmaking, music, and design have been treated as hobbies rather than professions. Young people understand what many are still learning: creativity is currency. A well-told story can reach millions; a published book can change minds; a film can shift culture. The creative economy builds soft power, preserves identity, and generates income. But this requires real investment in publishing houses, production studios, distribution platforms, funding, and respect. Our youth must see that being a writer, filmmaker, or content creator is a valid path to national development. They need access to libraries, ICT facilities, mentorship, and markets for their work. Writers must demonstrate that storytelling is more than entertainment—it is nation-building. Every book published in Ikinyarwanda or about Rwanda, every film depicting Rwandan realities, and every story celebrating our identity is an act of economic and cultural sovereignty. From stories to action President Paul Kagame’s closing emphasis on delivery reminded me that addressing challenges like security, education, youth empowerment, and economic growth requires more than policy—it requires persuasion. And persuasion begins with a story. Writers are not mere observers; we are participants. By documenting Rwanda’s history, we shape how the next generation understands its origins. By creating content that celebrates Rwandan identity, we strengthen national cohesion. Words must lead to action—but action begins with belief, and belief is shaped by the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what we can achieve. The Rwanda we envision for our children will be written into existence before it is built into reality. That writing begins today, with every book we publish, every story we tell, and every word we choose. This is the power of ink—and this is our work. Mutesi Gasana is a publisher and author.
