The Kenya Publishers Association (KPA) has recognised Professor Egara Kabaji as one of the “notable 25 Kenyan authors” from the past 25 years. Kabaji, who serves as the Vice President (East Africa) for the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), joins a distinguished list that includes renowned figures in African literature.
A Professor of Literary Communication at Masinde Muliro University in Kenya, Prof. Kabaji has authored 30 books, many of which are included in East African school curricula. His novel, “The Making of a Film Star,” has gained international recognition, featuring on the UN SDG Book Club Africa Chapter’s list of books promoting Sustainable Development Goal 8.
The KPA’s list of notable authors also includes literary icon Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Rebecca Nandwa, and the late Binyavanga Wainaina. The selection, which comprises 21 men and four women, was based on factors such as awards received and marketing efforts, including the use of social media by authors and publishers.
The KPA, which was founded in 1972, plays several roles in the country’s literary landscape. It lobbies for publishers at the government level and engages the public through various events such as book launches, book fairs, and award ceremonies.
This announcement not only celebrates the achievements of Prof. Kabaji and his fellow authors but also shines a spotlight on the vibrant literary scene in Kenya and the broader East African region.
The association’s flagship event, the Nairobi International Book Fair, has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s literary calendar since its inception in 1996.
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