Writing in Uganda is only for the rich.

My friend commented on one of my post saying, “Writing in Uganda is only for the rich.”

Sadly, she might be right – at least for writers of trade books (non-academic, non-curricular, and non-specialist books).

In Uganda, and many other African countries, traditional publishers focus on textbook publishing. The government, through the NCDC, procures large quantities of textbooks, making this business predictable and profitable.

But for authors of novels, memoirs, cookbooks, self-help books, and other trade books, the market is uncertain. As a result, traditional publishers are hesitant to invest in them. This forces trade book authors to self-publish. Meaning they have to cover costs for editing, book cover design, typesetting, printing, and/or eBook development. On top of all that, they also have to cover the cost of distributing their books, and then invest in marketing their books. No wonder writing seems like a luxury for those who can afford it!

But can this change?

Yes, if we recognize that publishing is a business, not just an art. Writers are passionate about their craft – and rightfully so. But in a self-publishing economy, they also need to embrace the business side of publishing. Like any other business, publishing requires investment, capital, and marketing. The same way we advertise clothes, juice, or soap, we must market books.

When we actively reach more readers, book sales will grow. And as Jennifer Makumbi (paraphrased) once said, businesspeople invest in what makes money. If books become profitable, more investors will support publishing. – That will create opportunities for authors who can’t afford to self-publish.

Building a thriving publishing industry in Uganda and Africa will take time. But we can start by equipping ourselves with knowledge—one post at a time.