Reading and Roaming: A Literary Journey Through Karongi

It’s a beautiful, sun-kissed day at Rubavu Beach, where the rhythmic sounds of the waves complement the serenity of my surroundings. I have just concluded an engaging, hour-long book club session, held as part of the Turning Pages initiative, a campaign designed to foster the culture of reading while promoting tourism across Africa.

The virtual session featured two avid readers: Clementine from Rwanda and Mapalo from Zambia. Our discussion centered around a booklet titled Karongi: Adventure Diaries, a publication that chronicles my personal experiences exploring Karongi, one of Rwanda’s 30 districts.

My adventures in Karongi were nothing short of exhilarating. I embarked on a cycling expedition along the Congo Nile Trail, soaking in the stunning landscapes that define Rwanda’s Kivu Belt. I then took to the water, kayaking to Nyamunini Island, a cone-shaped elevation that attracts numerous hikers every year. 

For a more immersive experience, I tried my hand at traditional fishing, gaining firsthand insight into the daily lives of local fishermen. Later, I relished a barbecue feast on Amahoro Island, one of the most popular islands on this part of Lake Kivu.

Beyond the outdoor thrills, I explored historical and cultural sites, delving into the country’s rich heritage. In addition, I spent some time at the Museum of Environment, where I nearly "drowned" in a vast sea of knowledge. My time in Karongi was further enriched by experiences such as boating, coffee processing, and an impromptu beach volleyball game, each adding a unique flavor to my adventure.

Clementine, a native of Karongi, brought a local perspective to our discussion, offering a deeper insight into what the area has to offer. For Mapalo, the book was an eye-opener. Having visited Kigali before without venturing beyond the capital, he was captivated by the vivid imagery and thrilling experiences portrayed in Karongi: Adventure Diaries. "The next time I visit Rwanda, I will definitely go to Karongi," he remarked enthusiastically.

This session marked the 96th book club session organized by Afrika Nzuri through the Turning Pages campaign. The initiative aims to nurture the culture of reading while simultaneously showcasing Africa’s breathtaking destinations. By bringing together travel enthusiasts from across the world, the campaign fosters a deeper appreciation for literature and tourism.

In collaboration with various stakeholders in the tourism industry, I have so far distributed 596 free books to participants, ensuring that the stories of Africa reach as many people as possible. The just concluded session was sponsored by Ecoair Apartment Hotel.