Kenya on Friday marked National Reading Day 2026 with a ceremony at the Kenya National Library Service (KNLS) Headquarters – Maktaba Kuu – reaffirming the country’s commitment to building a strong reading culture and promoting lifelong learning. According to UNESCO, approximately seven in 10 children in Sub-Saharan Africa are unable to read and understand a simple text by age 10, underscoring the urgent need for sustained investment in reading and literacy programs.
This year’s National Reading Day recorded a 23.5% increase in participation compared to 2025, reflecting the growing national momentum behind reading promotion. A total of 450 participants attended the national celebrations, representing Nairobi and Nakuru counties.
The event was graced by Mrs Mercy Wanjau, Secretary to the Cabinet, who represented the Government of Kenya and underscored the critical role of reading in empowering citizens, strengthening education, preserving culture, and driving national development. Held under the theme “Our Stories, Our Future: Empowering Minds Through Reading,” the celebration brought together government institutions, development partners, publishers, authors, educators, librarians, learners and reading enthusiasts from across the country.
Among the key partners present were the National Museums of Kenya, public and academic libraries, publishers and other stakeholders committed to advancing literacy and lifelong learning in Kenya. The day’s activities began with a colourful National Reading Day Book March, which saw hundreds of participants march through Nairobi in a symbolic call to embrace reading as a lifelong habit. The march was followed by cultural performances, storytelling sessions, school presentations, exhibitions, author engagements and the recognition of outstanding participants in the National Reading Day competitions.
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Mrs Mercy Wanjau emphasized that fostering a reading culture is fundamental to nurturing informed, innovative, and productive citizens. “Reading is not simply an educational activity. It is a national investment in human capital. Every child who develops strong reading skills is better equipped to succeed in school, participate in society and contribute to Kenya’s social and economic development.”
She commended the Kenya National Library Service and its partners for championing literacy initiatives that continue to transform lives and expand access to knowledge across the country.
The celebration comes as Kenya continues to implement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which places increased emphasis on literacy, critical thinking and independent learning. Experts agree that cultivating reading habits both in and outside the classroom is essential to improving learning outcomes and preparing young people for a knowledge-driven economy.
The continued expansion of digital library services has also enhanced access to information, with the KNLS digital library now serving 4,700 registered users, enabling more Kenyans to access books and educational resources online. The growth reflects increasing public demand for accessible learning resources.
Kenya National Library Service Director General, Dr. Charles Nzivo, reaffirmed KNLS’s commitment to ensuring every Kenyan has access to books, information, and opportunities to read. “Libraries remain one of the most powerful equalisers in society. By expanding access to books, digital resources and community learning spaces, we are helping build a generation of readers, innovators and informed citizens.”
The week-long program engaged more than 700 learners through storytelling sessions, reading engagements, competitions and other literacy activities designed to cultivate a lifelong love of reading among children and young people. Nine schools participated in the National Reading Day competitions and performances: Jonathan Gloag Academy, State House Primary School, Beacon of Hope School, Wanja & Kim School, St. Juliet Primary School, Shelter Homes, Alliance High School, Upper Hill School, and Heider Senior School. Their participation showcased exceptional creativity, critical thinking, and a shared passion for reading.
