In an innovative move, Rwanda’s Writers Federation has announced a groundbreaking writing competition designed to cultivate young student authors. Scheduled to culminate in May 2026, this initiative aims to guide participants professionally through the entire bookwriting process, from concept to launch. By showcasing students’ works at a special event, the competition seeks to inspire a culture of reading and writing while supporting students’ educational and financial needs.
On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Hategekimana Richard, the head of the RWF, highlighted the unprecedented approach taken this year. Responding to challenges students face while creating quality publications, the guild will provide step-by-step assistance to participants.
"This year’s competition is truly revolutionary," he stated. "Our mission is to empower Rwandan youth, nurture their writing talent, and prepare them as authors who will represent Rwanda, Africa, and the global literary community. Over the past three years, we saw that university students lack proper knowledge in writing books. The outcomes of last year’s competition clearly demonstrated the need for institutional intervention to improve their skills."
Hategekimana elaborated, "This year, we’re determined to make a difference by actively supporting student authors throughout this journey. These books will not just serve as competition entries but as tools to make a lasting impact. Our goal is to ensure the works completed in this program meet high standards and bring participants maximum benefits, including full credit scores."
In addition to comprehensive training, the initiative incorporates the opportunity for participating students to present their work to an audience of stakeholders, including potential buyers. Hategekimana expressed optimism that this would generate income for students, covering tuition fees and serving as seed capital for personal ventures.
"For the first time, more than ten students will showcase their books at a celebratory event," he shared. "Universities will also be required to purchase some of these works for their libraries, inspiring students with tangible achievements and ensuring broader access."
The competition aligns with Rwanda’s ambitious Vision 2030, 2050, and 2063 plans, which prioritize building a knowledge-based economy. Through this initiative, the Writers Guild hopes to contribute meaningfully by nurturing authors and promoting the culture of bookwriting in the nation.
Drawing further inspiration, Hategekimana referenced President Paul Kagame’s advice for ensuring Rwanda’s history is properly documented, safeguarding against distortion for future generations.
Currently, registration is open and facilitated digitally or directly at participating universities. Over 2,000 students have already signed up for the program, signaling strong engagement among institutions.
Hategekimana commended universities for encouraging their students to participate while urging others to provide similar support to ensure no opportunities are missed. He strongly advocated for integrating reading and writing practices into students' educational experiences, calling on the Ministry of Education to take a lead in inspiring and promoting the book culture.
The books created within the competition framework will aim to instill Rwandan values and principles, preparing students to contribute positively to nation-building efforts. Hategekimana affirmed that the program would empower students with essential skills needed for Rwanda’s development trajectory.
This unique initiative unfolds in three phases: training participants, guiding students through the bookwriting process, and conducting exams to earn scores. The grand awards ceremony will take place on May 17, 2026, at Kigali Serena Hotel. More than 20 universities will showcase their authored books, creating a monumental moment in Rwanda’s literary history.
Hategekimana Richard, head of Rwanda’s Writers Federation, emphasized the urgent need to foster reading and writing cultures among Rwandan youth due to the currently small number of authors in the country.
Universities have been provided with books to engage students and promote reading culture.
The awards ceremony crowning exceptional participants is set for May 2026, offering a grand stage to celebrate Rwanda’s literary talents and achievements.