African writers underserved – Experts
African Member states have been asked to develop common policies that favour writers to thrive in their works.
According to Dr. Helen Liebling, an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology, Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations at Coventry University, writers from developing countries like Uganda do not have equal opportunities to fully engage in their writing.
She says this is bound to affect some of the sectors such as education and tourism which require more information for the community to understand. Writers from developing countries lack logistical facilities to support them in writing books for society.
She says this must be addressed to enable them to compete with their counterparts living in developed countries.
Dr. Helen Liebling made the remarks at the launch of her new book titled “Nalule’s Travels and Adventures” written for survivors in Africa.
The book was launched at the International Literature Conference held at Kyambogo University in recognition of the works of Abdulrazak Gurnah, the 2021 Nobel Prize in Literature.
The Executive Director of FEMRITE, an association for Uganda women writers, Ms Hilda Twongyeirwe says government should consider including reading in the syllabus for both primary and secondary schools if Uganda is to improve its reading culture.
“What is key is that the government of Uganda needs to put emphasis on reading and have it clearly articulated on the syllabus. Schools are the biggest reading spaces that we have and so, they must embrace that, and ensure that people are reading. Reading is not only for passing exams but a life skill,” she said.
The book highlights her travels and adventures as a feminist, activist, and researcher.
