African Christian Authorship
ACABA Award Gala 2024
30 November, Hotel Africana, Kampala, Uganda
Message from the Convener
Dear Esteemed Guests,
It is with great joy and anticipation that I welcome you to the Uganda Gala, a day dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements in Christian literature across Africa. As we gather at Hotel Africana in Kampala, we honour the authors, publishers, and all who have played a part in advancing God’s Kingdom through the written word.
This day is not only a celebration but also evidence of the power of stories that inspire, transform, and uplift our communities. We are here to recognise the dedication and hard work of those who have answered the call to be vessels of God’s truth through literature.
Thank you for joining us in this celebration, and may this event ignite a renewed passion for the ministry of Christian literature in each of us.
In Christ’s Service,
Dr. Muthoni Omukhango
Convener, African Christian Authors Book Award
Get Your Tickets
Faith Meets Storytelling: Uniting African Voices To Impact Lives For God!
The African Christian Authors Book Award (ACABA) Gala offers a range of ticket options designed to cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
Gala Only – Kes 6,000:
This option is ideal for Uganda residents or attendees who have independently arranged their travel and accommodation. It provides access to the ACABA Gala, allowing guests to participate in the prestigious awards ceremony and the evening’s festivities.Gala & Bus – Kes 14,000:
Perfect for guests traveling from Kenya, this package includes both the ACABA Gala and transportation via the official ACABA bus. Attendees can enjoy a comfortable journey while having the flexibility to arrange their own accommodation separately.Gala & 2 Nights – Kes 22,000:
This package is tailored for those who prefer to utilize ACABA’s accommodation services. It includes the ACABA Gala and two nights of accommodation, offering convenience for guests who have arranged their transportation independently, whether by a different bus service or by flight from other African countries.Gala + 2 Nights + Bus – Kes 30,000:
The all-inclusive package, this option is perfect for attendees seeking a comprehensive experience. It covers the ACABA Gala, two nights of accommodation, and transportation via the ACABA bus, ensuring a hassle-free and fully managed experience from Kenya to Uganda.
Each ticket category is thoughtfully crafted to meet the diverse needs of our esteemed guests, ensuring that your experience at the ACABA Gala is both memorable and tailored to your preferences.
Event Speakers
Men & women recognising, celebrating and promoting quality in Christian Auhtorship in Africa!
Event Schedule
Recognising, celebrating and promoting quality in Christian Authorship in Africa!
Maureen Babu
Event Manager, ACABA Uganda
Get to the venue
Direction the Event Hall
Plot 2, 4 Wampewo Ave, Kampala, Uganda
Activities
Proposed Itinerary
What to do in Uganda
Saturday 30th 8am: Book Fest
At the African Christian Authors Book Award (ACABA) Book Fest, attendees can expect a vibrant celebration of African Christian literature, where authors, readers, publishers, and literary enthusiasts come together to explore and promote African stories rooted in Christian values.
Book Exhibitions:
- Showcase of African Christian Literature: A wide variety of books from African Christian authors, covering genres like fiction, non-fiction, theology, devotionals, children’s books, and more.
- Author Booths: Meet and interact with authors, get signed copies, and learn about the inspiration behind their works.
- Book Launches: Witness the launch of new books, with opportunities to be among the first to purchase and engage with the authors.
Networking Opportunities:
- Connect with Industry Professionals: A platform to network with publishers, literary agents, and fellow authors.
- Collaboration Opportunities: Explore potential collaborations, partnerships, and mentorship opportunities.
Book Sales and Giveaways:
- Exclusive Deals: Special discounts and offers on books during the fest.
- Book Giveaways: Opportunities to win free books and other literary prizes.
Interactive Sessions:
- Q&A with Authors: Engage in interactive sessions with authors, where you can ask questions and share your thoughts.
- Community Engagement: Participate in discussions on the impact of Christian literature on African society.
The ACABA Book Fest is not just an event; it’s a celebration of faith, culture, and the power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and transform lives.
Saturday 30th 11am: Children's Book Fair
At the ACABA Children’s Book Fair, children, parents, educators, and book lovers can look forward to a fun-filled and educational experience centered around African Christian children’s literature. Here’s what to expect:
Book Exhibitions:
- Diverse Collection of Children’s Books: Discover a wide range of children’s books by African authors, featuring stories with Christian values, African culture, and relatable characters.
- Author Booths: Meet and interact with children’s authors, get signed copies, and hear the stories behind their books.
Storytelling Sessions:
- Live Storytelling: Enjoy engaging and interactive storytelling sessions by authors and professional storytellers, bringing stories to life with enthusiasm and creativity.
- Illustrated Book Readings: Experience book readings with vivid illustrations projected on screens, making the stories even more captivating for young audiences.
Meet-and-Greet with Authors and Characters:
- Character Appearances: Meet beloved characters from children’s books, with opportunities for photo ops and autographs.
- Author Q&A Sessions: Children can ask questions and interact with their favorite authors, learning more about the creative process behind their books.
Book Launches and Special Events:
- Exclusive Book Launches: Be the first to discover and purchase newly released children’s books, with special launch events.
- Themed Events: Enjoy special events like “Character Dress-Up Day” or “Favorite Book Parade,” where children can come dressed as their favorite book characters.
Parent and Educator Resources:
- Workshops for Parents and Teachers: Attend workshops focused on encouraging reading habits, selecting age-appropriate books, and incorporating Christian values into children’s education.
- Resource Booths: Access educational materials, resources, and tools to support children’s literacy and spiritual growth.
Book Sales and Giveaways:
- Exclusive Offers: Take advantage of special discounts on children’s books and educational materials.
- Freebies and Prizes: Participate in contests, raffles, and giveaways for a chance to win books, educational games, and other prizes.
Safe and Family-Friendly Environment:
- Child-Friendly Zones: Designated areas with age-appropriate activities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for young children.
- Refreshments and Relaxation Areas: Family-friendly spaces to relax, enjoy snacks, and take a break between activities.
The ACABA Children's Book Fair is a celebration of the joy of reading, the beauty of African storytelling, and the importance of instilling Christian values in the younger generation. It's an event designed to inspire, educate, and entertain children and families alike.
Saturday 30th 12:30pm: Buffet Lunch
The ACABA Gala Buffet Lunch at Hotel Africana in Kampala promises to be a delightful culinary experience, offering a variety of delicious dishes in a sophisticated setting. Here’s what you can expect:
Elegant Dining Ambiance:
- Stylish Setting: The buffet lunch will be set in one of Hotel Africana’s elegant dining areas, featuring a refined atmosphere with comfortable seating and beautifully arranged tables.
- Cultural Décor: Expect a blend of modern elegance with touches of African culture in the décor, creating a welcoming and vibrant environment.
- Diverse Menu: A wide selection of dishes catering to various tastes and dietary preferences, including.
- Lovely Surroundings: Hotel Africana is known for its lush gardens and serene environment. If the lunch is hosted in an outdoor or semi-outdoor area, guests can enjoy scenic views of the gardens or the city skyline.
- Attentive Staff: Expect warm hospitality from the hotel staff, who will be on hand to assist with any needs, ensure smooth service, and make the dining experience enjoyable for all guests.
Saturday 30th 2pm: Award Gala
The ACABA Award Gala is the grand finale of the African Christian Authors Book Award, where the excellence of African Christian literature is celebrated in a prestigious and inspiring evening. Here’s what you can expect:
Red Carpet Arrival:
- Elegant Entrance: Arrive in style at the red carpet, where guests can take photos, mingle, and enjoy the glamour of the evening.
- Media Coverage: Expect media presence with interviews and photo opportunities, capturing the highlights of the night.
Formal Award Ceremony:
- Recognition of Excellence: Celebrate the achievements of outstanding African Christian authors, with awards presented in various categories such as fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, poetry, and more.
- Showcase of Nominees: Learn more about the nominated books and authors through video presentations, highlighting their stories, impact, and contributions to African Christian literature.
- Special Recognition: Awards for lifetime achievement, contributions to literature, and other special categories that honor those who have made significant contributions to the literary world.
- Keynote Speeches: Hear from distinguished speakers, including industry leaders, authors, and special guests, who will share insights and inspiration on the importance of Christian literature in Africa.
- Acceptance Speeches: Enjoy heartfelt and motivational acceptance speeches from the award winners, who will share their journeys, challenges, and what the award means to them.
Live Entertainment:
- Music Performances: Enjoy live performances from talented musicians and choirs, featuring gospel music, hymns, and cultural performances that celebrate African heritage.
- Poetry Recitals: Listen to powerful and moving poetry recitals that reflect Christian faith and African culture.
Networking:
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with authors, publishers, literary agents, sponsors, and other industry professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
Gift Bags and Souvenirs:
- Exclusive Keepsakes: Receive gift bags with exclusive items like signed books, literary-themed souvenirs, and promotional materials from sponsors.
- Memorable Takeaways: Souvenirs that commemorate the evening and the achievements of African Christian authors.
The ACABA Award Gala is more than just an awards ceremony; it’s a night of celebration, inspiration, and honoring the powerful role that Christian literature plays in shaping minds, hearts, and communities across Africa.
Sunday 1st 10am: Uganda Church Experience
Dear Christian Authors, Partners & Readers
Welcome to the Pearl of Africa!
Uganda is a very rich, culturally diverse country. It is on record that Uganda holds the world’s highest biodiversity, with over 25,000 species. Not only in species, but one of the few countries in the world that has an average of 3–4 people in one place from different backgrounds. It’s a beauty to behold. Lash green vegetation, gifted by nature, and one of, if not the most friendly, countries in the world. A Rolex is not a watch in Uganda! It is a chapati fried with vegetables and eggs!
We are most humbled and honoured to be hosting the 4th ACABA Award Gala in 2024. This year, we are excited to see authors and key stakeholders from Africa and the rest of the world come to celebrate Christian literature.
The event will provide a unique platform for these individuals to engage in meaningful discussions and exchange ideas on the importance of Christian literature in today’s global society.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore various cultural perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse voices shaping the world of Christian literature.
Mwebale Kuja (You are welcome)…
Richard Mwebesa, UG
Author, Inspired by Forty - Christian Living Content of the Year, 2021
Out of the Crowd - Nominated 2021
Thistle of the Nile, Nominated 2023www.africanauthors.net/richard-mwebesa
We are honoured to host ACABA gala in Uganda - a country that is open to building an ACABA chapter for African authors.
Dr. Muthoni Omukhango National Director, CLC Kenya / Convener, ACABA