The Association of Writers of Guinea (AEG) is celebrating African Writer's Day, which falls on November 7th. This day was chosen by the Pan-African Writers' Association to commemorate and celebrate African writers. The AEG has planned several activities to mark the occasion, including a panel discussion, a roundtable, and a conference. The conference will focus on the theme "Can we build an emerging Guinea without building a generation of readers?" and will be delivered by a representative from the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
According to Soussoy Ebène, Secretary of Communication for the AEG, the association has been facing significant challenges, including the lack of a permanent office in the past 40 years. This has made it difficult for the association to host events and receive visitors. Ebène expressed disappointment that despite requests to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Handicrafts, no support has been provided. He emphasized that having a permanent office would enable the association to better promote Guinean literature and culture.
Ebène highlighted the crucial role that writers play in promoting a country's culture. He noted that in some countries, such as Senegal, writers are highly valued and participate in high-level events. In Guinea, Ebène believes that writers should be recognized as ambassadors of the country's culture, as their works provide a unique window into Guinean society and culture. Through literature, readers can discover new horizons without leaving their homes.
The AEG has been advocating for greater recognition and support from the authorities. Ebène stressed that involving writers in cultural and official events would not only promote Guinean culture but also provide writers with opportunities to create new works inspired by these events. He cited the example of Senegal, where writers are often included in official delegations, highlighting their importance as cultural ambassadors.
The lack of a permanent office has made it challenging for the AEG to host international visitors. Ebène mentioned that when foreign writers visit Guinea, they are often received in private homes, which can be embarrassing for the association and the country. He urged the authorities to provide support, even if it's just a rented office, to enable the association to receive visitors with dignity.
The AEG's events on African Writer's Day aim to promote Guinean literature and culture. The roundtable discussion will focus on the theme "Will Guinea of tomorrow be a society of readers or a society of spectators?" Five cultural personalities will participate in the discussion. Ebène expressed his satisfaction that the Pan-African Writers' Association has designated November 7th as African Writer's Day.
Ebène emphasized that writers' works are timeless and continue to inspire future generations. He cited the example of Camara Laye's novel "L'Enfant noir," which was written over 50 years ago and remains widely read today. Ebène believes that writers are the best ambassadors for a country, as their works are eternal and provide a lasting legacy.
Key points
- The Association of Writers of Guinea calls for a permanent office and greater recognition of writers' role in promoting culture.
