Ugandans urged to embrace local authors

Flavian Zeija, a principal judge, during a book launch, urged everyone who desires Ugandan writers well to always make reference to their work rather than praising foreign authors.

At the launch of the book "Small Book of Big Quotes," authored by the Judiciary's Permanent Secretary Pius Birigirimana, at Judiciary headquarters in Kampala, Zeija noted that it is unfortunate that most elites know a lot about books written by European and other foreign authors but know very little about writers from their own country.

"Many politicians make references to people like Roosevelt, Napoleon, and others in their speeches, which is not a bad thing. But let's learn to embrace our own because whenever you quote a Ugandan author, many people will be inspired to buy and read their books, thus creating more market for the books and at the same time promoting the reading culture,” he said.

He added that it's only through reading content from our communities that we can embrace the multiplicity of voices that reflect our world.

“Local writers bring a rich tapestry of diverse perspectives to the forefront. Their experiences and insights are shaped by the very communities, cultures, and landscapes that we inhabit.”

Zeija also advised all those with various experience and knowledge to always share it with others via writing books because wherever someone reads your book, he or she doesn’t remain the same in terms of knowledge.

“It is so amazing that the PS, who is so busy, can have time to write about the important matters that affect our daily lives and the nation as a whole. He has written about policy matters and other technical areas, including corruption, which has eaten our society. This event is a celebration of not only his profound wisdom but also the broader conversation about the value of local voices in literature.”

Pius Bigirimana, the author of the book, revealed during his remarks at the event that all the books he has written have a chapter in his life.

“I hope that my words, as shared in these books, act as a catalyst for meaningful discussion, transformational action, and a bright future for all.”

Bigirimana also noted that his recent books have already started impacting people’s lives based on the revelations he has so far received. He thus called upon everyone with the capacity to at least read a book because it may help someone.

Ronald Nabimanya, the editor of Bigirimana’s books, stated that working with the Permanent Secretary to the Judiciary is not only an inspiration, but it's also a great thing in life.

“Each of Dr. Bigirimana’s books carries a positive change, and it embodies a spirit of collaboration,” Nabimanya added.

The recently launched book “Small Book with Big Quotes” has quotes from all six books that Pius Bigirimana authored.