The Women Book Awards 2026 brought together writers, publishers, educators, and cultural leaders in a celebration of women whose work continues to shape Rwanda’s literary and reading culture. Held during Women’s Month, the event recognized women across the book ecosystem—from authors and publishers to community literacy advocates—highlighting the impact their work has on storytelling, education, and cultural preservation.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected not only on individual achievements but also on the responsibility of writers and publishers to nurture Rwanda’s literary identity. One of the voices that resonated strongly with the audience was award-winning author Mukagasana Yolande, who used her remarks to highlight the importance of young people in shaping the future of literature. She expressed appreciation for the number of young writers being recognized through the awards and encouraged them to continue writing boldly.
Gasana Mutesi also emphasized the importance of language in storytelling, calling on writers to embrace local languages, particularly Kinyarwanda. “Young people are a key highlight in these awards,” she said. “And I want to encourage them to write in Kinyarwanda, because Kinyarwanda is us. If our language dies, we die with it.” Her remarks sparked reflection among the audience about the role of language in preserving identity and culture.
For Gasana, literature written in local languages plays a critical role in ensuring that stories remain rooted in the lived experiences of communities
The vision behind the Women Book Awards was further reinforced by the event curator, Gasana Mutesi, who reflected on her early experiences in the book industry. She recalled that many of the books she encountered in her early days featured cultures and stories that were far removed from her own environment.
This realization, she explained, became one of the driving motivations behind initiatives that seek to elevate local storytelling.
Gasana encouraged women writers to embrace their own cultural experiences and narratives. “When I began reading, many of the books around me were telling stories from cultures that were not my own,” she said. “But our stories matter, and women have a special role in telling them.” She reminded the audience that women are often the first storytellers in children’s lives. From bedtime stories to everyday conversations, mothers and caregivers shape the imagination of the next generation. Because of this, she urged women to write stories that reflect their communities, traditions, and values.
The ceremony also celebrated achievements in publishing
Judence Kayitesi received recognition in the publishing leadership category through her publishing house, Inzozi Publishers. Although she was not present in Rwanda at the time of the ceremony, her message of appreciation was shared with the audience. In her remarks, Kayitesi expressed gratitude for the recognition and noted that the award reflects the commitment of her publishing house to supporting writers and promoting literature.
She acknowledged the importance of platforms that recognize publishers who work behind the scenes to ensure that stories reach readers.
The Women Book Awards also highlighted emerging voices in literature.
Lise Nova Berwadushime, who received the Emerging Talent Award, shared a deeply personal reflection on her journey as a writer. She explained that her inspiration often comes from personal struggles and the experiences that shape one’s understanding of life. For her, writing has become a way of transforming challenges into meaningful expression.
“My inspiration comes from the struggles I have experienced,” she said. “I realized that if writing can keep someone safe, if it can comfort someone or help them feel understood, then I want to use it in the best way possible.” Her words resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting the power of literature to heal, encourage, and inspire.
Another young voice recognized during the awards was Denise Umuhusa, who received the Young Author Award for her contributions to children’s literacy and storytelling. Through her authorship and her involvement in the Agati Community Library initiative, Umuhusa has been working to nurture reading culture among children. Her books focus on stories that speak to young readers and address themes relevant to their everyday lives.
Her work has been praised for contributing to positive change in the children’s literary landscape by providing stories that inspire curiosity, imagination, and learning. By combining writing with community engagement, Umuhusa represents a new generation of writers who see literature not only as a creative endeavor but also as a tool for social impact.
Community-driven literacy initiatives were also celebrated during the event. Betsy Dickey, founder of the Ready for Reading initiative, received the Community Change Award in recognition of her innovative work with Reading Riders, a project designed to bring books directly to communities. Through Reading Riders, books are transported to areas where access to reading materials is limited, creating opportunities for children and families to engage with literature.
Her work in Rwinkwavu has demonstrated how creative solutions can expand access to books and strengthen reading culture in underserved communities. By bringing books closer to readers, initiatives like Reading Riders help bridge the gap between literature and communities that might otherwise have limited opportunities to access books.
As the ceremony concluded, the Women Book Awards 2026 stood as a powerful reminder that literature is sustained by a diverse network of contributors—writers, publishers, educators, and community advocates. Each of the awardees represents a different part of the literary ecosystem, yet they are united by a shared commitment to storytelling and literacy.
Beyond the celebration itself, the event highlighted a broader message: that the future of Rwanda’s literary landscape will depend on nurturing local stories, supporting emerging voices, and ensuring that books continue to reach readers across communities. By recognizing the achievements of women in the book sector, the Women Book Awards not only celebrate excellence but also inspire the next generation of storytellers who will carry these narratives forward.
Ambassador Irene Vida Gala of Brazil and the German Ambassador to Rwanda awarding the Emerging Talent
The DDG REB Dr flora mutezigaju awarding Sandra Bossio
