CACTUS SCHOOL SUPPLIES Shines at Umurage Book Festival with a Passion for Nurturing Young Readers

Elias Hakizimana Oct 3, 2025 0 Comments

By ELIAS HAKIZIMANA.

KIGALI, October 2, 2025 – As the Umurage International Books and Art Festival drew enthusiastic crowds to the Kigali Genocide Memorial this week, one local publisher stood out for its commitment to shaping Rwanda’s next generation of readers — CACTUS SCHOOL SUPPLIES LTD.

The three-day festival, held from October 1 to 3 under the theme “Cultural Renaissance: The Power of Arts, Heritage and Storytelling,” brought together writers, artists, and cultural advocates to celebrate Rwanda’s creative spirit.

Organized by the Ministry of Youth and Arts in partnership with AEGIS Trust and Arise Education, the event aimed to champion reading culture and promote storytelling as a cornerstone of national identity.

Among the many exhibitors, CACTUS SCHOOL SUPPLIES LTD drew the attention of visitors with its colorful display of children’s books and educational materials.

The company, proudly Rwandan, is dedicated to supporting literacy and creativity through locally written and published content.

“We write and publish books for children, and also provide a variety of school supplies including notebooks, pens, pencils, and markers,” said Juliet MBABAZI, Sales and Marketing Manager of CACTUS SCHOOL SUPPLIES LTD.

“Our headquarters are in Kisementi, and we also have a bookshop in Kibagabaga, Gasabo District.”

Juliet Mbabazi, Sales and Marketing Manager of Cactus School Supplies Ltd, showcases children’s books and school materials at the event.

More than just a supplier of scholastic materials, CACTUS champions a culture of reading from an early age. MBABAZI emphasized that participating in events like Umurage helps the company connect with parents, teachers, and young readers who value locally produced educational resources.

“We believe in a strong book-writing culture because it boosts reading habits,” she said. “Here at the festival, I met many visitors and buyers—more than I expected. Children, youth, and adults were all curious and loved our books.”

Her optimism mirrors the festival’s broader mission. Leaders in Rwanda’s creative sector, such as Gasana Mutesi, Founder of Arise Education, used the platform to call for greater investment in local publishing and storytelling. Mutesi reminded participants that passion and purpose must guide the writing journey, while panelists highlighted the vital role of media in encouraging a culture of reading.

As the festival concludes, CACTUS SCHOOL SUPPLIES LTD stands as a shining example of how local businesses are contributing to Rwanda’s cultural renaissance — nurturing imagination, promoting literacy, and inspiring lifelong learning.

With every book written and every pencil sold, CACTUS continues to plant the seeds of knowledge and creativity in the hearts of Rwanda’s young minds.

For more information, visit their bookshop in Kibagabaga or follow their upcoming literacy initiatives as they work to build a nation of passionate readers and future authors.