Female authors were urged to write and preserve their stories for future generations, Yolande Mukagasana said during the Women Book Awards 2026 ceremony on March 6 at the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB). ALSO READ: Rwanda’s reading renaissance: Bridging gaps in literacy Mukagasana, who received the Outstanding Woman Author Award, encouraged young writers to leave a lasting legacy through their work. “I am very grateful to the young people who have chosen to write, because if we don’t write our stories, they could be lost. I wrote to you years ago and I am still writing to you. I want you to write for your children, your grandchildren, and your great-grandchildren,” she said. She added that everyone has a story to tell, including people with visual impairments. “Everyone who speaks can write. Even those who do not speak can find a way to write. For those whose stories have not yet been told, remember that everyone has something to share, and what you have to say matters. When writing, let your words come from the heart,” Mukagasana said. Mutesi Gasana, founder of Arise Education and organiser of the event, said the ‘Women Book Awards’ were introduced to recognise women contributing to the publishing sector and promoting literature and literacy. Speaking during the ceremony, Gasana noted that while women are active in the publishing industry, many still lack representation in leadership positions, explaining that women have a voice but often do not hold key roles. Gasana said that the awards were created to honor women working across the book value chain, including authors, publishers, educators, and literacy advocates. Irene Vida Gala, the Ambassador of Brazil to Rwanda, encouraged women to speak up and challenge silence, especially in spaces where they are under-represented. Based on her experience working in male-dominated environments, Gala said women sometimes need to challenge the status quo to push for change. “Please, be irritating. If we are not irritating, if we accept the silence that is given to us, we will never move the world ahead,” she said, urging women to support one another, noting that progress is rarely achieved alone. Gala commended women who use writing to share their ideas and experiences, noting that their voices can reach far through books, poetry, and stories. She described the gathering as a special occasion to celebrate women’s talent and passion for writing One of those women is twenty-six-year-old Lise Nova Berwadushime who received the Emerging Talent Award. She is a children’s story writer, poet, copywriter, editor, and translator. In an interview with The New Times, Berwadushime said: “I believe I have many awards in the future, but this will always be my first. It’s a sign to keep doing what I am doing because some people are watching and appreciating.” She added that she plans to continue learning and creating more poetry and children’s books while encouraging young women to pursue writing. “Everyone can write. Social media may fade, but what you put on paper will stay for long,” Berwadushime stated. Rebecca Hansen, a personal leadership coach, urged women to embrace authorship despite fear or criticism. “Writing a book is extraordinary and vulnerable. People will question your age, your experience, or whether you’re ready. You will face pushback, sometimes harsh. However, standing in your own conviction lets you inspire others,” she said. Hansen noted that women are often told to step back, yet sharing important messages matters. She added that celebrating women authors demonstrates their courage and leadership, and by telling their stories, they help the next generation find the confidence to share their own voices. Out of 170 nominations across 11 categories, 21 nominees were shortlisted, and nine winners were awarded.
