Renowned Rwandan author and genocide survivor Yolande Mukagasana has urged writers, particularly women and young people, to document their stories so they can be passed on to future generations.

She made the call during the Women Book Awards 2026 ceremony held on March 6 at the Rwanda Basic Education Board, where she received the Outstanding Woman Author Award.

Mukagasana emphasized that writing helps preserve history and personal experiences that might otherwise be forgotten.

“If we don’t write our stories, they could be lost. Write for your children, your grandchildren, and your great-grandchildren,” she said, adding that everyone has a story worth sharing.

The Women Book Awards recognise women contributing to Rwanda’s publishing industry. According to Mutesi Gasana, founder of Arise Education, the initiative honours women across the book value chain, from authors to literacy advocates.

During the event, Irene Vida Gala, the ambassador of Brazil to Rwanda, encouraged women to speak up and challenge silence in order to drive change.

Among the winners was Lise Nova Berwadushime, who received the Emerging Talent Award. She noted that while social media may fade, written work can endure for generations.

In total, the awards received 170 nominations across 11 categories, with 21 nominees shortlisted and nine winners selected.

By Andrew shyaka