The highly anticipated African Readers Conference, ARC 23, unfolded at Hive Collab in Kampala on Saturday, September 30. Marking its third occurrence since 2021, this year’s conference witnessed a remarkable surge in attendance, with delegates from Burundi, Kenya, and various other countries participating.
Mr. Hashim Wangusa Otahunga. commenced the event by expressing gratitude to all who contributed to its success. He hinted at the possibility of publishing an anthology featuring winners of the essay writing competition, mirroring the 2022 edition.
Notable Presentations at the African Readers Conference 2023
Rubongi Army Secondary School’s Poem, a school from Tororo presented a poignant poem titled “No One Left Behind,” addressing literacy, inclusion, and finance. Onyait Churchill led a panel discussion on “Student Perspectives on the Role of Technology in Improving Reading and Writing Skills.”
As if not enough,there was also a Sign Language Poem presented by Ms. Muraa Kristen Wani from Sign Language for All delivered a powerful sign language poem emphasizing that disability is not inability.
Keynote Address by Mr. Julius Ocwinyo
Mr. Julius Ocwinyo, renowned author and former Fountain Publishers employee, delivered the keynote speech. He emphasized that literacy involves more than reading and writing, highlighting the importance of digital tools in teaching literacy. Mr. Ocwinyo encouraged schools to leverage digital books, particularly in resource-scarce environments.
Mr. Ocwinyo advised aspiring writers to focus on high-demand categories like textbooks and to start by publishing online, sharing insights on navigating the publishing world.
Other Speakers at African Readers Conference 2023
Sumz Food Industries, a key partner of Read Us Africa, shared its journey and contributions to the organization’s vision. They later gave out some snacks to the attendees of he conference.
Ms. Faith Mairah, Chairperson of YALI Alumni Chapter of Uganda, urged young people to be solution-oriented. She introduced the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—as a problem-solving approach.
Read Us Africa’s Evolution
Ms.Agatha Rachel Akullu, Team Leader of Read Us Africa, recounted the organization’s evolution from an online book discussion group to university book clubs and, eventually, hosting annual conferences.
Akullu acknowledged the challenges faced by the young team in gaining trust for their idea but celebrated the support received from sponsors, including Hipipo.
Award Ceremony and Closing Thoughts
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Innocent Kawooya, highlighted Hipipo’s upcoming 19th anniversary and praised the ARC as a testament to God’s goodness. He encouraged all to contribute lasting value to society. The various winners of the African Readers Conference writing competition were also awarded.
In conclusion, books titled “Level One Project Guide” were distributed to some lucky young students, marking the first-ever printed copy.