Rwanda will host the 2026 Africa Writers Day celebration on November 7 in Kigali, an event aimed at recognising writers and promoting the book industry across the continent.
The celebration, organised by the Rwanda Books Industry Association in partnership with the Rwanda Writers Federation, is expected to attract writers, publishers, researchers, booksellers, academics, teachers, students and representatives of public and private institutions. Representatives of the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA) are also expected to attend.
Outstanding writers from Rwanda and other African countries will be recognised for their contributions to education, research, culture and knowledge sharing. Some will also exhibit their books and discuss the ideas behind their work.
The celebration will run alongside the Kigali International Book Fair, where writers, publishers, booksellers, schools and universities will exhibit their publications. The fair is expected to give authors greater access to readers and publishers while increasing the visibility of African books.
Writers’ role in preserving history
Richard Hategekimana, chairman of Rwanda Books Industry Association, said the celebration is an opportunity to recognise writers’ contributions and encourage more people to document Africa’s history and experiences.
"Celebrating Africa Writers Day is an important opportunity to recognise the valuable work being done by writers, appreciate their contribution, and strengthen our commitment to writing for Rwanda and Africa. Africa needs its history, values, knowledge and vision to be documented and transmitted to young people and future generations,” he said.
He said Rwandan writers have a wide range of subjects to explore, including the country’s history, education, governance, economic development, technology, national unity, youth empowerment and the contribution of women to development.
"As writers, we have a great deal to write about Rwanda. There is our history, the journey of our country, and the developments and transformations we observe across different sectors,” he said.
"We appreciate His Excellency President Kagame for his leadership and his contribution to the country’s journey. This also gives us a responsibility to write, so that what we witness today can be documented and made available to present and future generations.”
He added that books about Rwanda should be based on research and evidence to ensure they provide credible information for readers locally and internationally.