H.E. Samira Bawumia, the Second Lady of the Republic of Ghana, recently launched the second edition of her “Samira Bawumia Literature Prize Anthology” titled “We Move: Ghanaian Dream in Motion.”
The launch event took place on Monday, November 18, at Alema Avenue in Accra, and was attended by various distinguished personalities from the worlds of literature, politics, and culture.
Among the notable guests at the event were Rev Joyce Aryee, the Former CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, the Deputy Minister for Tourism Arts, and Culture, renowned Ghanaian poet and surgeon Lade Worsonu, and Mr. Hayford Siaw, the Head of the Ghana Library Authority.
During her address, H.E. Samira Bawumia emphasized the significance of the Samira Bawumia Literature Prize, which was established in 2018 to provide a platform for emerging writers, especially those who have not yet published their works, to showcase their talents and contribute to Ghanaian literature.
She highlighted the goal of the competition to create a nurturing environment for young Ghanaian writers to thrive, amplify their voices, and raise awareness about their works both locally and internationally.
She also mentioned the importance of providing long-term support to the writers through workshops and training sessions to help them improve their craft.
The theme of the anthology, “We Move: Ghanaian Dream in Motion,” was elaborated upon by H.E. Samira Bawumia, who shared her belief in the resilience and aspiration of the Ghanaian people to overcome challenges and continue progressing as a nation.
The event also featured insights from Mr. Hayford Siaw, the Head of the Ghana Library Authority, who stressed the need for more support from the private sector in promoting Ghanaian writers and literature.
Ghanaian poet and surgeon Lade Worsonu addressed the challenges of engaging young people with reading in the digital age, emphasizing the role of parents in fostering a love for books and limiting screen time for children.
Ghanaian rap artist and creative director, Okyeame Kwame, delivered a captivating performance, showcasing the significance of Ghanaian writers and their contributions to the country’s literary landscape.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, and Reverend Joyce Aryee also commended the Samira Bawumia Literature Prize for their efforts in promoting Ghanaian literature and supporting local writers.
