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The inaugural Kampala Writes LitFest 2024 marked the beginning of a vibrant literary gathering dedicated to celebrating Ugandan storytelling and honoring the voices that shape the nation’s literary heritage. Under the theme “Writing Our Truths: Commemorating Ugandan Literature,” the festival brought together writers, poets, publishers, academics, and readers for powerful conversations about the role of literature in documenting Uganda’s stories.
Through engaging panel discussions, masterclasses, book conversations, and workshops, the festival explored the richness of Uganda’s literary traditions while highlighting contemporary voices shaping the future of storytelling. Discussions focused on issues such as authorship, copyright, publishing opportunities, memoir writing, and the evolving landscape of African literature.
The 2024 edition also created a platform for emerging writers to learn from established authors, refine their craft, and connect with industry professionals. It celebrated the power of authentic storytelling — stories that reflect lived experiences, preserve cultural memory, and challenge narratives.
By commemorating Uganda’s literary contributions and amplifying diverse voices, the first edition of Kampala Writes LitFest laid the foundation for a growing community dedicated to nurturing creativity, dialogue, and the future of literature in Uganda and beyond.
Masterclass: Enforcing and Protecting Writers’ Copyright
Facilitator: Charles Batambuze
Contemporary Writing Trends in Uganda
Panelists:
Jerry Ssesanga
Davina Kawuma
Lloyd Lutara
Margaret Maria Kemigisha
Moderator:
Precious Colette Kemigisha
Dramatization: excerpt from Song of Lawino by Okot p’Bitek
Discovering Identity and Authenticity Through Memoir Writing
Panelists:
Robert Katende
Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko
Isaac Kalembe Akiki
Irene Birungi Mugisha
Moderator:
Carol Kagezi
Book Publishing, Marketing and Distribution in Uganda
Panelists:
Charity Karungi Kwatampora
Dora Kemirimo Okuja
David Kibuuka
Evelyn Kyomuhendo Magara
Moderator:
Crystal Rutangye-Bazirake
Mawe! by Malcom Guy
Conventions of Crafting a Good Short Story
Facilitator: Dilman Dila
Can We Talk Session
Literature and Technology: The Shifting Patterns of Censorship in Uganda
Panelists:
Kagayi Ngobi
Gloria Kiconco
Eron Kiiza
Margret Kenyagu
Moderator:
Joachim Buwembo
The Burdens by John Ruganda
Manchester Happened by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi
Performance: Kabera Angel Amahoro
Kampala Writes LitFest unites writers & readers to celebrate storytelling & inspire dialogue.
Kampala Writes LitFest unites writers & readers to celebrate storytelling & inspire dialogue.
Kampala Writes LitFest unites writers & readers to celebrate storytelling & inspire dialogue.
