ARUSHA: MINISTER for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Professor Palamagamba Kabudi has urged Tanzanians, especially the youth, to cultivate a strong reading culture, saying books open doors to knowledge, creativity and new ideas.
He made the remarks in Arusha yesterday, during the launch of the biography of Ambassador Daniel Ole Njoolay.
Prof Kabudi acknowledged the low reading culture in the country, noting that many people lack motivation and interest in reading, a situation that undermines the spirit of writing and publishing.
“I would like to use this occasion to remind Tanzanians, particularly the youth, about the importance of reading books. Reading has many benefits as it opens doors to knowledge and new ideas,” he said.
He added that reading stimulates creativity and innovation across various fields, contributing to solutions for community and national challenges.
According to him, the habit of reading also nurtures discipline, ethics and concentration.
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“Reading brings transformation. In short, even the ability to build strong arguments in various forums depends on how much you invest in reading,” Prof Kabudi said.
He said that reading books strengthens one’s ability to articulate ideas clearly, professionally and with sound judgement.
He urged Tanzanians to recognise the value of reading and encouraged families to motivate children and young people by buying them different kinds of books. Prof Kabudi also encouraged both emerging and established writers not to be discouraged by the low reading culture, but to continue producing books that contribute to knowledge.
“I encourage you not to lose hope simply because many people do not like to read. Let us use our abilities and talents to transfer knowledge into books,” he said.
Turning to the biography’s subject, Prof Kabudi commended Amb Njoolay for his patriotism, distinguished service and lasting impact in the various positions he has held.
He described him as an exemplary role model for young people and leaders across the country. He further urged Amb Njoolay and his team to consider using digital platforms to distribute books so they can reach more readers within and beyond Tanzania.
For his part, Amb Njoolay said he decided to write the book three years ago, following persistent encouragement from friends who felt his story would inspire others. The book captures his life and public service journey.
“It explains how I managed to study miraculously under very difficult circumstances. In those days, for a Maasai child to go to school, it was by government coercion, not by choice,” he said.
Amb Njoolay noted that after completing primary, secondary and college education, his path continued to unfold in unexpected ways.
He was elected to the CCM National Executive Committee (NEC) at the age of 29, despite being new to the party.
“Later, I was appointed Regional Commissioner for 16 years and even more astonishing for me was being appointed Ambassador, despite not being a career diplomat,” he said.