Kenyans urged to read more as National Reading Day is marked

By Remie OTIENO

There is a growing call for Kenyans to embrace reading more, recognizing its significant benefits for individual growth and societal development.

This, according to the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS), includes enhanced literacy, critical thinking, and access to diverse perspectives, ultimately contributing to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

This was the rallying call this past weekend during the National Reading Day as Kenya seeks to actively promote a reading culture to encourage both children and adults to embrace reading.

Celebrated annually on July 12th, this day aims to foster a reading culture and highlight the importance of literacy for personal and national development.

The Kenya National Library Service, says it is committed to providing inclusive spaces and accessible resources that support literacy, lifelong learning, and personal growth for all Kenyans.

“As we mark this special day, let us recommit ourselves to fostering a culture of reading—both at home and in our institutions, in schools, and within our communities. Because when we empower minds, we shape a stronger, more resilient Kenya,” said Director General Charles Nzivo.

This year’s theme “Empowering Minds, Shaping the Future: Rethinking Kenya’s Reading Culture in a Changing World,” places a spotlight on the critical need to revitalize Kenya’s reading culture, as well as celebrate literacy campaigns.

Kenyans have now been called upon to embrace libraries not only as centers of knowledge but as critical pillars of mental wellness, economic advancement, and youth development.

As a result, the Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services through the Kenya National Library Service, has prioritised expanding access to knowledge and strengthening a reading culture nationwide.

“Through the virtual library dubbed vtabu, we have provided information materials to thousands of Kenyans, regardless of their location,” said the “As we reimagine Kenya’s reading landscape, we cannot do it without you—our writers and publishing professionals.

Your creativity, your courage to challenge norms, and your dedication to nurturing the minds of tomorrow are what keep the flame of literacy burning bright.

We look forward to strengthening partnerships with you through author workshops, literacy campaigns, publishing forums, and platforms that celebrate Kenyan literature locally and globally,” said Robert Theuri, the Chairman of Kenya National Library Board, adding that KNLS, together with its partners is collaborating to host events and campaigns challenging Kenyans to love ‘books’.