Since September 14, the French Institute of Bukavu has been the scene of a most enriching event for about twenty actors in the book chain. Bringing together authors, publishers, librarians and booksellers, this major event marked the conclusion of a training course included in the Usomi project, aimed at boosting the book sector and encouraging the promotion of reading in the province of South Kivu.
Under the benevolent supervision of Agnès Debiage, a passionate trainer, the participants followed an in-depth training course, focused on understanding and managing the book chain. This initiative aims to facilitate public access to literary works, by raising the awareness of the actors involved about the challenges and opportunities offered by a well-structured book chain.
For the various speakers, it was a question of learning to better understand the complex mechanisms that govern the book industry, but also to cultivate effective synergies with local bookstores. Understanding the ecosystem of the bookselling profession, exploring avenues for fruitful collaboration and initiating joint projects are among the primary objectives of this training.
One of the keys to this training session lies in the awareness of the interdependence of the links in the book chain. Indeed, each actor, from the author to the library, occupies an essential place and contributes to the cultural and intellectual dissemination of works. It is by promoting cooperation and the pooling of knowledge that the quality of literary productions, their accessibility and their influence can improve significantly.
Ghislain Kabuyaya, publisher emeritus, rightly emphasizes that it is thanks to close collaboration between the different actors that the book can truly reach its audience in all its diversity. He emphasizes the idea of a dynamic and supportive network, capable of supporting the creation, dissemination and promotion of local literary works.
Ultimately, this training at the French Institute of Bukavu allowed participants to rethink their role within the book chain, to strengthen their skills and to build lasting links for the advancement of the sector. Thanks to a common vision and a shared will, the book sector in South Kivu will be able to benefit from a new dynamic, conducive to cultural development and easier access to reading for all.