Malian president Keita says books are vital in reconciliation process

Bamako, Mali (PANA) – The Malian president, Ibrahim Boubacar Kéita, has said that books are vital in the reconciliation process, especially with the crisis shaking Mali.

Launching the new publishing season in Mali, the 11th in the series, Keita, designated at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa by his peers as African Union coordinator for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said ‘’Everything that touches the spirit; everything that enables us to link men is useful for our national reconciliation process, and I
believe that this is clear, a sound spirit in a sound body. The book can help culture, and I believe it."

The launch was held simultaneously in Bamako, Sikasso (South), Djenne (centre) and Timbuktu (north-east), and the programme brings together, from 19 to 23 February, 2019, popular writers from 25 countries across the globe.

The meeting focuses on reading session, intellectual debates, conferences, roundtables and shows, among other activities, in the domain of culture and education.

Organisers say the theme of this year’s edition is under the framework of "culture for social cohesion, peace and reconciliation in Mali", with the theme ‘’A world of meeting’’.

According to reports, the theme urges shared emotions but is also chosen within the framework of the ongoing reconstruction process in Mali, while taking into consideration the challenges of today’s world.

"The event addresses particularly youths who are the largest in population in our societies, but also the most exposed to the numerous socioeconomic, educational, security and migration challenges," organisers say.

In addition to the Malian president, the event was attended by the Prime Minister, heads of institutions, government officials, former ministers, and diplomats from neighbouring countries.
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