Niël Terblanché
Namibia marked World Book and Copyright Day on Thursday with a call to promote reading and protect the work of local authors and artists.
The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC), through the Directorate of Namibia Library and Archives Services (NLAS), hosted the event at the National Library and Archives building under the theme “Read Your Way”.
M’kariko Amagulu, director of arts at MEIYSAC, delivered the keynote address on behalf of Executive Director Erastus Haitengela.
She highlighted the role of books in shaping people and society.
“World Book and Copyright Day serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of books and the written word in shaping minds, cultures, and societies,” she said.
The event focused on encouraging young Namibians to read, raising awareness about copyright and intellectual property, and recognising the contributions of Namibian writers, illustrators, and publishers.
Amagulu said a reading society grows intellectually, socially, and economically. She urged families, schools, and communities to build reading habits.
“Reading nurtures imagination, critical thinking, empathy, and lifelong learning,” she said.
Speaking on the theme, Amagulu described it as an open approach to literacy that allows people to enjoy reading in their own way.
“By encouraging reading habits… we empower individuals with the tools to understand their world, engage meaningfully with others and build a more informed and inclusive future,” she said.
The day also recognised the role of local creators in preserving culture and telling Namibian stories.
“This day is equally an opportunity to recognise and honour local authors, illustrators, publishers, and other creative artists who tell our stories, preserve our languages and reflect the unique experiences of our communities,” she said.
Amagulu called for respect for copyright laws to support the creative economy.
“By upholding copyright laws, we can ensure these creators receive the recognition and compensation they deserve,” she said.
She invited the public to take part in the day’s activities and to keep supporting local creators.
“Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It is through collaboration and creativity that we will continue to enrich our literary landscape in the country,” she said.
