Many see reading books as obsolete when quick online info is at their fingertips. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
In today's world, there's a saying that has gained traction: “If you want to hide something from Africans, put it in a book.” This adage reflects a stark reality rooted in past research that suggested many Africans lacked the habit of reading books.
However, this challenge has not only persisted but has also been exacerbated by technological advancements and the evolution of media.
For quite some time now, many have preferred to spend most of their time watching television and engaging with content on social media rather than reading books.
As a result, books have gradually lost their appeal, becoming relics of the past for many. This shift is particularly evident among the younger generation, where the practice of reading has declined sharply, replaced by the quick and fleeting consumption of information through screens.
In the early 1990s, renowned author Jane Healy predicted this shift. In her book Endangered Minds, published in 1990, she wrote, “As time goes on, people might stop reading.” What once seemed like a far-fetched idea has become a harsh reality, especially in societies that have embraced technology at the expense of traditional reading habits.
The Western world, which introduced much of this technology, still clings to books, nurturing a culture of reading that continues to thrive. But in Tanzania, the situation is starkly different.
In the past, people were avid readers. There was a time when even small magazines like Sani, a popular publication with engaging stories, were widely read by people of all ages. The goal was simple—to gain knowledge and understand various aspects of life through written words.
Fast forward 30 years, and the landscape has dramatically changed. Educators and experts in technologically advanced countries note that many young people today have lost the ability and interest to read books as they once did.
This decline in reading habits is often attributed to the misconception that reading is time-consuming and less rewarding compared to the instant gratification offered by social media. Many believe that spending time reading books is a waste when they could quickly get information online.
Nevertheless, the truth remains that the benefits of reading books are immense and irreplaceable. Beyond just increasing knowledge, books have the power to transform individuals, shape their thinking, and help them navigate various aspects of life.
David Aggrey, a young man who has greatly benefited from reading, is a living testament to this. David has not only cultivated a deep love for books but has also channeled that passion into writing. “I made it a habit to read books while in school, and whenever I had time, I would visit the library.
This habit of reading has helped me discover my talent for writing books,” said David. He added, “In June this year, I started writing, and everything I wrote, I shared with my teacher, who helped me refine my work until it became something worth reading.”
Reading offers significant intellectual benefits, particularly for young minds. It enhances cognitive abilities, expands vocabulary, and fosters critical thinking. However, in Tanzania, the culture of reading has been steadily declining.
A major factor contributing to this is the pervasive use of information and communication technology (ICT), which has led many to abandon books in favor of digital content. When you board a bus, for instance, it's not uncommon to see most young people deeply engrossed in their phones, scrolling through social media, or watching videos.
A few may flip through sports newspapers, but serious reading has largely become the preserve of the older generation, particularly those in their 60s and 70s.
This generational shift raises important questions. Why is it that the Western countries, which are at the forefront of technological innovation, continue to embrace books and foster a robust reading culture? In the West, reading remains a vital part of life, from education to leisure.
Libraries are well-stocked, and bookstores thrive, catering to a population that values the written word. Westerners understand that books are not just a source of information, but a tool for critical thinking, self-reflection, and personal growth.
The contrast with Tanzania is stark. Professor Mugyabuso Mulokozi, an emeritus professor of Kiswahili literature from the University of Dar es Salaam, has long lamented the decline in readership in the country.
He argues that this trend has far-reaching consequences, not just for education but also for civic engagement. “When people do not read, they miss out on crucial knowledge, including understanding important documents like the Constitution,” says Professor Mulokozi. “This lack of readership skills has profound implications for our democracy and governance.”
The decline in reading culture is also evident in the poor sales of newspapers in Tanzania. Compared to neighboring Kenya and Uganda, Tanzania’s newspaper circulation is dismal.
Statistics show that while Kenya’s newspaper industry remains robust, with circulation figures in the hundreds of thousands, Tanzania struggles to maintain a fraction of that. The reasons for this are manifold, including economic challenges, but the underlying issue is a dwindling interest in reading.
This situation calls for a reevaluation of our approach to education and media consumption. To reverse this trend, Tanzania could learn from the West’s commitment to fostering a culture of reading.
Encouraging young people to read from an early age, investing in libraries, and promoting reading as a valuable and rewarding activity are steps in the right direction. Likewise, there’s a need to make reading materials more accessible and appealing to the younger generation, perhaps by integrating digital books with traditional reading methods.
The wisdom of renowned intellectuals like Noam Chomsky emphasizes the importance of reading in developing critical thinking skills. Chomsky, a professor and linguist, has long championed the power of the written word in shaping informed and engaged citizens. His works are a testament to how reading can expand one’s worldview and deepen understanding of complex issues.
Behold, the decline in readership in Tanzania is a troubling trend that threatens to undermine future generations' intellectual and civic development. As technology continues to evolve, we must find a balance that allows us to benefit from digital advancements while preserving the irreplaceable value of books.
Emulating the Western approach to reading could be the key to reigniting a love for books in Tanzania, ensuring that the wisdom contained within them is not lost to the distractions of the digital age.
Reviving the reading culture in Tanzania requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Schools should play a pivotal role by integrating reading programs into their curricula, encouraging students to explore literature beyond textbooks.
Libraries must be revitalized and made more accessible, not just in urban areas but also in rural communities where access to reading materials is limited. E&D Publishers, under the stewardship of Elieshi Lema and Demere Kitunga, have been at the forefront of campaigning for community libraries across Tanzania, making a significant impact in fostering a reading culture.
Prominent figures like Pius Ngezi, a former Ngara MP and author of over 70 books, have shown the immense value of literature in both personal and societal development. His work continues to inspire, highlighting that reading and writing are deeply woven into our cultural identity.
Similarly, seasoned poet Dr. Mohamed Ngunguti from the University of Dar es Salaam's Kiswahili Linguistics department remains a beacon of literary excellence. He has consistently emphasized the crucial role of poetry and prose in shaping thought and discourse.
New authors like Eunice Urio, whose novel A Tangled Web was published in June 2024, are injecting fresh energy into the Tanzanian literary scene. Her work underscores the need for strong readership skills and offers a glimpse into the future of Tanzanian literature. By embracing such works, Tanzania can rejuvenate its reading culture.
Support from the government and private sector is vital in making books more affordable and accessible. National campaigns like book weeks or reading challenges can rekindle interest in books, especially among the youth. Using technology, such as e-books or reading apps, can help bridge the gap between traditional books and the digital world.
It’s crucial to shift the narrative that reading is outdated in the age of technology. Instead, reading should be seen as a fundamental skill that enhances critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning. By taking these steps, Tanzania can foster a new generation of readers who are not only informed and knowledgeable but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to society. The future of our nation depends on it.