Aïta Chancella Kanyange is a Burundian writer who values the traditions of her country in her work.
At 33, she writes stories for children aged 2 to 10 and has already published two volumes of her collection Harabaye: Once Upon a Time. Written in Kirundi, French, and English, her stories are inspired by Burundian culture.
The author conceived these books as educational tools but also as means of transmitting values and promoting good reading habits.
She draws her inspiration from her own experience as a mother of two young children. "When I had my first son, as I have loved reading for a long time, I love writing, I tried to introduce him to reading," she says.
"While trying to find suitable books, I realized that the only books I could find were from abroad and told stories of a life that did not resemble the lives of children here in Burundi, and I had the idea to write for Burundian children."
Beyond the words, Aïta Chancella Kanyange's books stand out for their brightly coloured illustrations that captivate children.
"Children learn more visually, so these images speak to them more than words," explains the writer. "A child who is not yet able to read can learn, can read through images."
Aïta Chancella Kanyange hopes that her books will allow Burundian children to learn about their country's culture from a very young age.
The author advises parents not to let their children watch television and reminds them that education is primarily their responsibility. Her work has already resonated with some families.
Evelyne Nkunzimana takes her children to reading sessions. "Our children are exposed to screens," she points out. In Harabaye , besides the words, "there are also the images that speak. And to children, images speak well."
