Introduction

“The best way to hide something from a Black person is to put it in a book.” Who, as an African and a Black person, has not been outraged upon discovering this quote? Yet, if we step back and analyze the reality, we must recognize that reading is truly not rooted in our cultural habits. Worse still, with the omnipresence of social media, the lack of interest in books has increased, making this problem even more worrying.

An Alarming Observation: Africans do not Read Enough

In our various countries, the situation is very worrying. Libraries are empty, bookstores are barely surviving, and few people are investing in books, whether physical or digital. Young people prefer to spend their time on social media consuming ephemeral content rather than enriching their minds with quality works. Even adults, who should be setting an example, are often caught up in the whirlwind of work and daily obligations, relegating reading to the background.

Why this Lack of Interest in Books?

For centuries, African societies have favoured the transmission of knowledge through oral tradition. Tales, proverbs, and the stories of the elders have long been the pillars of education and the preservation of collective memory. Writing, although present, has never occupied the same central place. In schools, reading is often perceived as a constraint rather than a pleasure. Students read solely to pass exams, without truly developing a love for books. With the rise of social media, young people’s attention is increasingly captured by short, instant, and often superficial content.

How can we Reverse this Trend?

Parents and teachers must instil a love of reading in children from an early age. Providing appropriate books, creating reading clubs, and organizing literary competitions are all initiatives that can bear fruit. Digital books and interactive reading platforms could be a solution to attract young people to reading by combining technology and education. It is also important to promote African authors who tell stories rooted in our realities. Literature that is close to our daily lives can easily captivate and spark the interest of readers.

Conclusion

It is time for us Africans to reconnect with reading. Reading is about educating ourselves, uplifting ourselves, and freeing ourselves from the shackles of ignorance. Reading is a powerful weapon for personal and collective development. Every book opened is a door to a better future.

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