By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia Association of Writers (LAW) joined fellow writers around the world on Thursday, November 7, 2024, in celebration of the International African Writers’ Day 31st anniversary.
The celebration, which focused on empowering young writers and promoting African literature, witnessed a series of events across Liberia, including the establishment and training of student writers’ clubs nationwide.
Since launching its activities in September, LAW has focused on initiatives designed to foster a new generation of writers.
This year’s celebration kicked off with discussions on the inclusion of local languages in schools’ curriculum, an essential step for preserving Liberia’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
LAW also established student writers’ clubs, beginning with workshops at the Dya-wulu Cooperative Learning Center in the Rehab Community along the Robertsfield Highway, and continued with training sessions in Nimba County at St. Mary Catholic School, Blessing Seventh Day Adventist School, and God’s Divine School in Sanniquellie.
LAW’s efforts are being conducted in partnership with UNESCO Liberia and the WE CARE Foundation.
The association’s investment in youth writers aligns with its longstanding commitment to promoting Liberia’s cultural identity through the arts and literature.
“We believe that the future of writing in Liberia and beyond lies in the hands of our young people, this is why we’re focusing on equipping students with the necessary skills to develop their voices as writers and storytellers,” said LAW’s president Wede Ade Kerkulah; writing does not only help preserve our culture but is also an essential tool for fostering unity and understanding across communities.”
The annual observance of International African Writers’ Day holds particular significance for Liberia.
As the birthplace of Joseph Jeffrey Walters, who authored Guanya Pau in 1891, Liberia occupies a historic place in African literature.
Guanya Pau is the first full novel ever written by a sub-Saharan African, marking Liberia’s enduring influence on the literary world.
In addition to LAW’s domestic activities, the association is collaborating with the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) to celebrate this year’s theme: “Reprographic Rights and African Literature.”
This theme addresses the importance of protecting intellectual property rights for African writers, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work and that African literature reaches a global audience.
PAWA, founded in 1989, has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural and literary connections across Africa and the African Diaspora.
Its mission is to strengthen the cultural and economic bonds of the African people through literature.
This year’s celebration will feature a panel discussion with six distinguished African writers, exploring the importance of reprographic rights in the preservation and promotion of African literary works.
LAW’s celebration of International African Writers’ Day also emphasizes the importance of the literary community’s unity in preserving African culture and history.
The association’s role in this movement dates back to its founding in 1982, seven years before the establishment of PAWA.
LAW has been a flagbearer for Liberian and African literature, working tirelessly to advance the recognition of African writers both locally and globally.
“We hope that our celebration this year inspires governments, including our own, to provide more support for writers and literary organizations like PAWA,” said LAW president Kerkulah.
“Writing is an essential means by which we express our thoughts, our experiences, and our dreams. It’s crucial that governments recognize the importance of protecting the rights of writers and ensuring that African literature is celebrated worldwide.”
As the world celebrates the contributions of African writers, LAW’s work remains a critical part of Liberia’s literary scene.
By empowering the next generation of writers, promoting the preservation of Liberia’s cultural heritage, and supporting the fight for fair recognition of African writers, LAW continues to be a leading voice in shaping the future of African literature.
The 31st International African Writers’ Day celebrations are expected to continue with activities, including readings, discussions, and events that highlight the ongoing challenges and achievements of African writers.
