Publisher and literacy advocate Judence Kayitesi , founder of Inzozi Publisher , has been recognised as Woman in Publishing Leader at the Women Book Awards 2026 , held in Kigali ahead of International Women's Day . The recognition highlights Kayitesi’s contribution to strengthening Rwanda’s literary sector through publishing, storytelling, and literacy advocacy. Receiving the award, Kayitesi dedicated the honour to readers, writers, and young people who believe in the power of stories to shape society. “This award is not only for me but also for every reader, writer, and young person who belie

Publisher and literacy advocate Judence Kayitesi, founder of Inzozi Publisher, has been recognised as Woman in Publishing Leader at the Women Book Awards 2026, held in Kigali ahead of International Women's Day.

The recognition highlights Kayitesi’s contribution to strengthening Rwanda’s literary sector through publishing, storytelling, and literacy advocacy.

Receiving the award, Kayitesi dedicated the honour to readers, writers, and young people who believe in the power of stories to shape society.

“This award is not only for me but also for every reader, writer, and young person who believes in the power of stories to heal, educate, and unite us,” she said.

Award given to Judence Kayitesi, founder of Inzozi Publisher, has been recognised as Woman in Publishing Leader at the Women Book Awards 2026

Kayitesi’s work in publishing has been closely tied to efforts to support survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Through literature, she explained, survivors are able to share their experiences while ensuring their voices remain part of Rwanda’s historical memory.

Under her leadership, Inzozi Publisher has prioritized storytelling as a platform for remembrance, healing, and education.

“Stories carry memory and meaning,” she noted. “When survivors share their experiences, they help society learn, heal, and move forward.”

Kayitesi also highlighted the growing role women play in Rwanda’s literary and knowledge economy.

Women writers, editors, and publishers, she said, are increasingly contributing to how knowledge is produced and shared across communities.

“Women are storytellers, educators, and leaders in their communities. When women write, publish, and promote literacy, they preserve history, strengthen knowledge, and inspire younger generations,” she said.

Kayitesi acknowledged that establishing a publishing initiative came with significant challenges.

Launching a publishing house with limited resources, guiding survivors through emotionally sensitive storytelling, and balancing professional responsibilities required persistence and careful leadership.

She explained that collaboration with writers, researchers, and community partners helped overcome many of these challenges. By building strong partnerships and focusing on the long-term value of storytelling, she gradually expanded the reach of Inzozi Publisher and created opportunities for authors to share their work.

Addressing young girls and aspiring writers, Kayitesi urged them to believe in the importance of their voices.

“Believe that your voice matters. Seek mentorship, access opportunities, and never underestimate the power of your story,” she advised.

She added that writing is not only about academic achievement but also about expressing identity, culture, and lived experiences.

The Women Book Awards 2026 brought together writers, publishers, educators, diplomats, and cultural leaders to celebrate women transforming Rwanda’s literary landscape.

Organizers also emphasized community impact. Books worth RWF 200,000 were donated to libraries and reading spaces, while copies of winning authors’ works were printed and distributed to expand access to literature.

Held ahead of International Women's Day, the event highlighted how women continue to shape Rwanda’s cultural and intellectual future through storytelling and publishing. For Judence Kayitesi, the recognition reflects a broader mission: ensuring that Rwanda’s stories, especially those of survivors, communities, and young writers, continue to be written, published, and shared with future generations.

A little more informed. A little more connected.