From Stories to Leaders: Reflections from the 7th African Writers Conference in Rwanda — Lise Nova Berwadushime

From October 22^nd to 27^th, 2024, Rwanda hosted the 7th Edition of the African Writers Conference, bringing together writers, artists, and literary enthusiasts across Africa under the theme “The Role of African Children’s Literature in Shaping the Youth.” International participants began arriving in Kigali on Tuesday, October 22^nd, where they were warmly welcomed by members of -Writers Space Africa (Rwanda country chapter). Over the next five days, they were joined by local participants and engaged in various activities.

Some of the conference participants at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. *Photos by Dudestin Levis Clement*

On Wednesday, October 23^rd, the group visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where they learned about Rwanda’s history, focusing on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the nation’s subsequent journey of renewal. Afterwards, they toured Kigali, experiencing the vibrancy of the city firsthand.

A section of some of the participants and the panel at the 7th Writers Mingle.

The following day, Thursday, October 24^th, featured the Writers Mingle 2024 at Goethe-Institut Kigali. During this event, participants explored literary themes in a panel discussion on “Nurturing Young Leaders: The Power of Storytelling in African Children’s Literature.” The panel included Parfait Nzeyimana from Rwanda, Rose Wangari from Kenya, Grace Tendo from Uganda, and Khumoetsile D’Arcy from Botswana. Moderated by Writers Space Africa’s founder, Anthony “Penboss” Onugba, the discussion encouraged participation from the audience and included an open mic session where attendees shared poetry.

Please click here to watch the Writers Mingle.

On Friday, October 25, participants took part in a creative writing workshop that offered sessions on short story writing, creative non-fiction, children’s literature, and spoken word poetry. Facilitators included Patrick Nzabonimpa (Tom), Anthony “Penboss” Onugba, Grace Tendo, and Kolabomi Adeko. The workshop, held at the Kigali Public Library, ran from 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Kolabomi Adeko discussing Spoken Word Poetry at the AWC Workshop.

The conference’s main event occurred on Day 5, October 26^th. The participants convened at the Kigali Public Library for the African Writers Conference and the event began with opening remarks from Anthony “Penboss” Onugba, followed by a keynote speech from John Rusimbi, President of the Pan-African Writers Association. A panel discussion on the conference theme, “The Role of African Children’s Literature in Shaping the Youth,” featured distinguished writers: Mutesi Gasana from Rwanda, Immaculate Ajiambo from Kenya, Rachel Twinomugisha from Uganda, and Kolabomi Adeko from Nigeria. Moderated by Prince Vincent Sugira from Rwanda, the panel covered topics such as the current landscape of African children’s literature, the importance of locally relevant content, and promoting mental well-being in young readers. Sandra Nadege Uwayezu from Rwanda served as the event’s MC.

Some participants pose for a picture during African Writers Conference on October 26, 2024 at Kigali Public Library.

Please click here to watch the proceedings of the conference.

During the conference, the winners of the African Teen Writers Award, the African Writers Awards for Short Story, the Wakini Kuria Prize for African Children’s Literature, and the Wanjohi Prize for African Poetry were announced. The event also featured a small book exhibition, allowing writers to connect, take photos, and exchange books.

Please click here to see the winners.

Cynthia Anjie Nkweti from Cameroon receives her prize (2nd place) from Nahida Esmail, Chief Judge of the Wakini Kuria Prize for Children’s Literature.

The conference concluded on Sunday, October 27^th, with a visit to Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park, where participants enjoyed the outdoors, deepened connections, and bid each other farewell. The 8th Edition of the African Writers Conference is anticipated to be held in the Kingdom of Lesotho in 2025. See you there!