Kenya is set to witness a vibrant celebration of books, knowledge, and culture as the iKenya National Library Service (KNLS), in partnership with KCB Bank, hosts the highly anticipated National Reading Day 2026 on Friday, 10th July 2026 at Maktaba Kuu, Nairobi.
Held under the theme “Our Stories, Our Future: Empowering Minds Through Reading,” the event aims to ignite a nationwide reading culture and position literacy as a cornerstone for Kenya’s socio-economic development.
The day’s activities will kick off with an exciting reading march, bringing together learners, educators, authors, and stakeholders in a symbolic show of unity for literacy. The march will set the tone for a dynamic programme featuring exhibitions, performances, and interactive engagements designed to inspire readers of all ages.
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A major highlight of the event will be a publisher exhibition and book fair, running throughout the week and will feature leading publishers including KLB, Longhorn, Moran, One Planet, EAEP, Oxford, Phoenix, Queenex, and Spotlight. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to purchase educational materials at heavily discounted rates, with CBC materials offered at 20% off and 8-4-4 series at an impressive 50% discount, making quality learning resources more accessible to families and schools.
The event will also feature a strong lineup of authors engaging directly with readers through interactive sessions, reflecting KNLS’s commitment to promoting local content and nurturing a reading culture across the country.
The culmination ceremony, scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., will bring together key stakeholders for keynote addresses, recognition of outstanding participants, and celebration of reading as a national priority.
In a significant show of government support, the event will be officiated by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services, Ms. Hanna Wendot Cheptumo underscoring the critical role of literacy in national development and inclusion.
National Reading Day has grown into a flagship initiative dedicated to transforming Kenya into a knowledge-based society by promoting inclusive literacy and lifelong learning. Through partnerships with institutions, publishers, and the private sector, KNLS continues to expand access to books and information, bridging gaps across communities.
Speaking ahead of the event, Director General, Dr. Charles Nzivo, emphasized that reading is more than a skill, it is a pathway to empowerment, creativity, and informed citizenship. The organization has called on Kenyans from all walks of life to participate in this national celebration and embrace reading as a daily habit.
With a rich lineup of activities running throughout the week leading up to the main event, including youth forums, author spotlights, and children’s reading sessions, National Reading Day 2026 promises to be a landmark moment in Kenya’s literacy journey.
All are welcome to attend and be part of building a reading nation.
