Launch of the 20th Ghana International Book Fair

I am honoured to be with you today on behalf of UNESCO and the UN in Ghana to commemorate the 20th edition of the Ghana International Book Fair, a remarkable milestone that celebrates the power of words, knowledge, and culture. This event has become a beacon of intellectual exchange, fostering connections, and igniting imaginations, and I am delighted to share this momentous occasion with all of you.

Books are more than mere ink on paper; they are vessels that carry the wisdom of generations, the creativity of minds, and the stories of our shared humanity. As we gather here to celebrate this 20th edition, we reflect on the journey of this fair and its impact on our society. It is a testament to the enduring importance of literature in our lives, transcending borders and connecting us on a profound level.

This year’s theme, “Reading to connect minds for social transformation” could not be more appropriate.

In today's digital age where information can be accessed with a tap of a finger, the Ghana International Book Fair stands as a reminder that the printed word remains a source of inspiration, enlightenment, and transformation. It encourages us to engage with ideas, grapple with diverse perspectives, and embark on journeys that take us far beyond the confines of our immediate surroundings.

This fair is not only a platform for showcasing books; it is a celebration of Ghana's rich literary heritage. It nurtures a sense of pride in our own stories, our history, and our cultural tapestry. As we engage with authors and their works, we delve into the heart of what makes us Ghanaian, African, and global citizens.

I also want to acknowledge the role of publishers, who are the custodians of these treasures of knowledge. They invest countless hours, resources, and passion into bringing these works to life, making it possible for us to hold in our hands the distilled wisdom and creativity of some of the finest minds in the world.

Ladies and gentlemen, as we look into the future, be assured that UNESCO will continue to support and foster reading culture, especially among the younger generation through its initiatives such as the World Book Capital and I am profoundly glad that this event, appropriately so, has been listed as one of the year-long activities of the Accra World Book Capital 2003. This is because it is at the heart of our work to promote the culture of reading and the growth of the book industry, which naturally creates value chain within that eco-system. Stay assured that this support will go beyond the sole UNESCO in charge of Education and Culture, but the whole UN Family will support this sector notably through the country framework and its pillars on economic growth including the support to the creative and cultural industries and the ones for equitable access to social services” including education.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Books are not just repositories of knowledge; they are vehicles for empathy, critical thinking, and personal growth. They shape our perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and inspire us to envision a better world.

Being literate in the 21st century, goes beyond one’s ability to read and comprehend written texts. It includes one’s ability to use basic digital tools and applications effectively. It is therefore necessary for the government and other stakeholders to invest more resources in strengthening the capacity of learners and teachers at all levels to acquire basic digital skills to enable them to compete favorably with their peers around the world.  It must however be stated that one’s ability to enjoy the full benefits of the digital revolution depends heavily on individual’s the ability to read fluently with comprehension. It is, therefore, important that equitable investment is made in supporting the acquisition of these foundational skills by all learners to enable the reap the full benefits of the digital revolution.

In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers, volunteers, authors, publishers, and all those who have contributed to making this 20th edition of the Ghana International Book Fair a resounding success. Let us celebrate the power of books, the written word, and the unity they bring to our diverse society. May this book fair continue to serve as a beacon of enlightenment, bridging gaps, and fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Thank you. Medase (twi). Oyouadon (Ga). Mungode (Hawsa).