Samira Bawumia honors young Ghanaian writers with SBLP anthology

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Her Excellency Samira Bawumia, the Second Lady of Ghana, through her Samira Empowerment and Humanitarian Project (SEHP), recently launched an anthology titled “All Ghana A Stage: We Move, Ghanaian Dream in Motion” at The AVI in Accra.

The anthology marks the second publication under the Samira Bawumia Literature Prize (SBLP), a biennial initiative designed to nurture and showcase young Ghanaian literary talent.

During the event, Mrs. Bawumia emphasized the anthology’s purpose, highlighting that it brings together the work of 10 winners across poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, offering a platform for previously unpublished writers to make their debut as published authors, with the potential for future opportunities.

She also reflected on the anthology’s title, noting that it represents the aspirations of Ghanaian youth.

“The Ghanaian dream is about striving toward something and achieving it. While challenges may arise, we are a resilient and aspirational people, and Ghana is on a path of progress.”

Mrs. Bawumia reiterated her commitment to fostering a reading and writing culture among Ghanaian students, with plans to donate copies of the anthology to schools and organize tours to inspire future writers.

Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, a member of the advisory board for SEHP, praised the initiative’s significant impact on Ghana’s literary scene.

“Since its inception in 2020, the Samira Bawumia Literature Prize has created a transformative platform for young writers to share their stories and amplify their voices.

This anthology reflects the vision to nurture talent, preserve our heritage, and expand the boundaries of Ghanaian storytelling.”

Dr. Aryee celebrated the creativity in the anthology, stating, “Each story, poem, and essay captures a part of our collective journey—our triumphs, challenges, and unwavering hope. This movement highlights storytelling as a vital part of culture and national development.”

She encouraged readers to value Ghanaian stories, stressing their role in shaping the nation’s identity: “A nation that fails to honor its stories will never be honored by history.”

The Samira Bawumia Literature Prize, launched in 2020, aims to support emerging Ghanaian writers and contribute to the country’s literary growth. Winners receive workshops and have their work published, which opens doors to international opportunities.

With a focus on celebrating the resilience and aspirations of Ghanaians, “All Ghana A Stage: We Move, Ghanaian Dream in Motion” stands as a powerful testament to the role of storytelling in shaping Ghana’s future.