President Kagame Recognized for Promoting Literature in Africa

Kigali, Rwanda - The Pan African Movement Rwanda (PAM) has expressed gratitude to President Paul Kagame for his significant contributions to promoting literature across Africa. The recognition came during celebrations for World Writers’ Day on November 7, 2025, which also saw awards presented to institutions and individuals advancing the culture of reading and writing.

PAM highlighted President Kagame’s efforts to encourage reading, support writers focusing on African history, and engage in broader educational initiatives that foster a culture of literature on the continent. Among the award recipients was the Ministry of Defense, recognized as a government institution that has helped writers develop and promote literary culture.

The Deputy Director of PAM in Rwanda, Twagirimana Epimaque, noted that while the culture of reading has grown, challenges remain due to the lack of a regulatory framework for writers.

“We are calling for a policy to be put in place to regulate book writing because, to date, there are no fixed rules governing book writing. This makes it difficult for writers to find the means and resources to write, even when the ideas are there,” he said.

Hategekimana Richard, Director General of the Rwandan Writers’ Guild and recipient of the Best Writer of the Year award, emphasized that the culture of writing should not be confined to universities and higher education institutions but should also reach primary school children.

“Children also read and should learn how books are written and produced. This encourages a love for writing from a young age,” he said, noting that children’s reading and writing competitions have been established to cultivate this culture.

Dr. Baguma Rose, Director of the Department of Education Policy at MINEDUC, stressed the foundational role of books in education.

“Books are the primary teaching aids, from children to adults. Writing is crucial for improving the quality of education because written knowledge supports innovation and helps us understand our history and identity,” she said.

During the ceremony, 12 awards were presented, including recognitions for:

Universities promoting reading in schools and communities

The event highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to developing a reading and writing culture, ensuring that literature remains a vital tool for education, knowledge, and national identity.