Kibirge Desire Edward: On Literature and Publishing

Who are you? Could you introduce yourself to the readers of The Critic Magazine?

My name is Kibirige Desire Edward. I am a son and third born to Mr Kalule Peter and Mrs Tukahirwa Naume Kalule. I am a poet, novelist, short story writer and playwright. I am the Founder and also the CEO of Desha Publishing House.  

What are some of your fondest memories from childhood, and how have they shaped who you are today? 

My fondest childhood memories are precious to me! Growing up, I had a loving family and wonderful experiences that shaped me into the person I am today. 

One of my favourites is playing with my siblings, Emily, Jassy, Enock and Ham at home and everywhere. We’d spend hours playing games like sonko, bulada, kwepenna, hide and seek, ludo, matatu, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Those carefree days taught me the importance of teamwork, supporting each other, and bonding with loved ones.

Another cherished memory is of my mother teaching me how to cook. I remember the aroma of the spices and oils and the way she’d patiently guide me through the process. Those moments with my mother taught me the value of patience, hard work, and preserving tradition.

These childhood memories have taught me valuable life lessons, helped me develop important skills, and given me a sense of belonging and connection with my family and community. As I look back, I realise that those fond memories have become an integral part of my identity and continue to inspire me to be the best version of myself.

What books did you enjoy reading while growing up? Were there any authors or titles that sparked your imagination?

My mother and father made me love African literature. They used to quote Chinu Achebe’s Things Fall Apart and it then turned out to be my favourite book, my mother used to buy me story books and I loved them so much, thanks to her that at times she used to take time and read for me too. They contributed a lot to my love for literature.

Did you have a favourite book or series that you returned to again and again? What drew you to those stories?

As a child, I was deeply moved by Chinua Achebe's classic novel, "Things Fall Apart". I must have read it at least five times, and with each reading, I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of culture, identity, and the human condition.

What drew me to "Things Fall Apart" was the way Achebe masterfully wove together the story of Okonkwo, a strong-willed and complex character, and the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. I was fascinated by the exploration of themes such as masculinity, tradition, and the impact of colonialism on African societies.

Achebe’s writing style, which blended storytelling with poetic language, resonated deeply with me. His use of vivid imagery and symbolism helped me to visualise the world of Umuofia and connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Reading "Things Fall Apart" inspired me to explore my own cultural heritage and identity, and to appreciate the richness and diversity of African cultures. It also taught me the importance of storytelling as a way to preserve cultural heritage and to share our experiences with others.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and how do you see your study of law informing your work as a publisher?

As a law student and a publisher, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of law, literature, and society. My inspiration to pursue law stems from my desire to understand the complex relationships between individuals, communities, and institutions. I believe that law has the power to shape our world and promote justice, equality, and human rights.

As I navigate my law studies, I’m excited to see how my knowledge of the law will inform my work as a publisher. I anticipate that my understanding of legal frameworks and principles will help me to better navigate the complex world of publishing, including issues related to copyright, intellectual property, and freedom of expression.

Moreover, I believe that my experience in publishing will also enrich my study of law. As a publisher, I’ve had the opportunity to work with authors from diverse backgrounds and explore a wide range of topics and themes. This experience has broadened my perspective and helped me to appreciate the complexities of human experience—skills that I believe will serve me well in my legal studies.

Can you walk us through your journey as a writer and publisher? What inspired you to start writing poetry, and how did you transition into publishing?

My love affair with writing began when I was a teenager. I was drawn to poetry because of its ability to capture the essence of the human experience in a concise and powerful way. I started writing poetry as a way to express myself, to process my emotions, and to make sense of the world around me.

As I continued to write, I began to share my work with others. I’d read my poetry at school events, and later, at local literary gatherings. The feedback I received was encouraging, and it motivated me to keep writing.

Over time, my passion for writing led me to explore other forms of creative expression, including short stories, novels and plays. I devoured books on writing, attended workshops, and joined writing groups to hone my craft.

The transition into publishing was a natural progression for me. As a writer, I’d often find myself thinking about the books I wanted to read, but couldn’t find them. I realised that there were many talented writers in Uganda and beyond who were struggling to find a platform for their work.

That’s when the idea for Desha Publishing House was born. I wanted to create a platform that would showcase the diversity and richness of African literature, and provide opportunities for new and emerging writers to share their work with the world.

Starting Desha Publishing House was not without its challenges, of course. There were many late nights, early mornings, and moments of self-doubt. But I was driven by my passion for storytelling, and my commitment to creating a platform that would amplify the voices of African writers.

Today, I’m proud to say that Desha Publishing House has become a respected name in the publishing industry. We’ve published a range of titles, from poetry and fiction to non-fiction and children’s books. And we’re just getting started!

What motivated you to establish Desha Publishing House, and what are your goals for the company?

Establishing Desha Publishing House was a dream come true for me. As a writer and avid reader, I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and the power of literature to transform lives.

Growing up in Uganda, I noticed that there was a lack of representation of African voices and stories in the global literary landscape. Many talented African writers were struggling to find a platform for their work, and I wanted to do something to change that.

My motivation for establishing Desha Publishing House was to create a platform that would showcase the diversity and richness of African literature. I wanted to provide opportunities for new and emerging writers to share their work with the world, and to help amplify the voices of African writers who were already making significant contributions to the literary world.

My goals for Desha Publishing House are ambitious, but I’m confident that we can achieve them. In the short term, I'd like to see Desha Publishing House become a respected and recognised name in the publishing industry. I'd like to publish a range of titles that showcase the diversity and creativity of African writers, and to establish partnerships with other publishers, literary organisations, and writers' communities around the world.

In the long term, my vision is for Desha Publishing House to become a leading publisher of African literature, with a global reach and reputation. I'd like to see our books being read and studied in schools and universities around the world and to know that we're playing a significant role in promoting African literature and culture.

Ultimately, my goal is to make Desha Publishing House a platform that empowers African writers, promotes African literature, and helps to shape the global literary landscape.

Which authors or poets have had a significant impact on your writing style and interests?

As a writer and publisher, I've been fortunate to have been influenced by a diverse range of authors and poets from around the world.

One of the earliest influences on my writing was William Shakespeare. His mastery of language, his exploration of the human condition, and his innovative use of poetic devices have always left me in awe. His works, such as "Romeo and Juliet" and "Hamlet", have taught me the importance of using language to evoke emotions, explore complex themes, and create memorable characters.

Another poet who has had a significant impact on my writing is Robert Frost. His ability to use nature imagery to explore complex themes and emotions has always inspired me. His poems, such as The Road Not Taken and Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, have taught me the importance of using subtlety and suggestion in my writing, rather than relying on overt statements or explanations.

In terms of African literature, I've been deeply influenced by the works of Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka. Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" is a masterpiece of modern African literature, and it has taught me the importance of exploring the complexities of African culture and identity. Soyinka's poetry and plays have also been a source of inspiration for me, particularly in terms of his use of language and his exploration of themes related to identity, culture, and social justice.

Closer to home, I've been influenced by the works of Okot p'Bitek, a renowned Ugandan poet. His poetry, particularly his collection "Song of Lawino", has taught me the importance of using language to explore the complexities of African culture and identity. His work has inspired me to explore themes related to identity, culture, and social justice in my writing.

What books or genres do you enjoy reading in your free time? Are there any titles or authors that you’re particularly enthusiastic about?

In my free time, I enjoy reading a wide range of genres, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature.

I find poetry to be a powerful and expressive medium, and I appreciate how it evokes emotions and sparks reflection. I enjoy reading poetry collections that explore themes related to identity, culture, and social justice.

Fiction is another genre that I enjoy, particularly novels and short stories that explore the human condition. I appreciate fiction that is thought-provoking, emotionally resonant, and rich in language and imagery.

Non-fiction is also a genre that I enjoy, particularly books on history, culture, and social justice. I find non-fiction to be a great way to learn about new topics, expand my knowledge, and gain new insights.

Lastly, I have a soft spot for children's literature, particularly picture books and early readers. I believe that children's literature has the power to shape young minds, inspire imagination, and foster a love of reading.

What type of books or authors is Desha Publishing House interested in publishing? 

At Desha Publishing House, we have an open-door policy when it comes to publishing. We welcome submissions from writers of all genres, styles, and backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting, we're interested in publishing your work.

We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, and we want to provide a platform for all voices to be heard. We don't discriminate based on genre, style, or author platform. If you have a manuscript that you're passionate about, we want to see it.

Our goal is to publish high-quality books that showcase the diversity and creativity of writers from all walks of life. We're committed to helping authors bring their work to market, and we're excited to see what the future holds for our publishing house.

How does Desha approach the publishing process, from manuscript selection to final publication?

At Desha Publishing House, we approach the publishing process with a focus on quality, creativity, and collaboration. Here's an overview of our process, from manuscript selection to final publication:

Manuscript Selection is the first step in our publishing process. We accept manuscript submissions from authors directly, and our editorial team reviews each manuscript carefully, looking for unique voices, compelling stories, and high-quality writing. We consider manuscripts in all genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children's literature, and more.

Once a manuscript is selected, our editorial team works closely with the author to refine the manuscript. We provide guidance on structure, pacing, character development, and other key elements of storytelling. Our goal is to help the author bring out the best in their work, and we work collaboratively with them to ensure that their vision is realised.

After the editorial process is complete, our design team creates a visually appealing book design, including cover art and interior layout. We work with the author to select a cover design that accurately represents the tone and themes of the book, and we ensure that the interior design is clear, readable, and visually appealing.

Once the book is designed and formatted, we print and distribute it to online retailers, bookstores, and other channels. We also make our books available in digital formats, such as e-books and audiobooks, to ensure that they are accessible to readers around the world.

Our marketing team works with the author to develop a marketing plan that includes social media promotion, email marketing, book signings, and other events. We also reach out to book reviewers, bloggers, and influencers to help spread the word about our books. Throughout the publishing process, we maintain open communication with our authors, keeping them informed about the progress of their books.

What sets Desha apart from other publishing houses, and how do you see the company contributing to the literary landscape?

At Desha Publishing House, we are award-winning and we believe that our commitment to publishing diverse voices and stories sets us apart from other publishing houses. We are dedicated to providing a platform for writers from all backgrounds and genres, and to helping them share their unique perspectives and experiences with the world.

We also believe that our collaborative approach to publishing sets us apart. We work closely with our authors to ensure that their vision is realised, and that their book is the best it can be. We also engage with readers and the wider literary community to ensure that our books are relevant, impactful, and widely read.

In terms of contributing to the literary landscape, we see Desha Publishing House playing a significant role in promoting diversity, inclusion, and representation in literature. We believe that literature has the power to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves, and we want to contribute to a literary landscape that is more diverse, inclusive, and representative of the world we live in.

We also see ourselves as a platform for new and emerging writers, and we are committed to helping them develop their craft and share their work with the world. By publishing new and innovative writing, we hope to inspire and nurture a new generation of readers and writers.

Ultimately, our goal is to make a positive impact on the literary landscape and to contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and vibrant literary culture.

How do you balance your studies in law with your work as a publisher and writer?

Balancing my studies in law with my work as a publisher and writer can be challenging, but I've learnt to manage my time effectively and prioritise my tasks.

As a student, I have to dedicate a significant amount of time to my studies, including attending classes, reading, and completing assignments. However, I'm also passionate about my work as a publisher and writer, and I make time for it by being intentional about my schedule.

I typically allocate specific times of the day or week for my studies and other times for my publishing and writing work. I also make sure to take breaks and practice self-care to avoid burnout.

Additionally, I've learnt to leverage my skills and knowledge in law to inform and enhance my work as a publisher and writer. For example, my understanding of copyright law and contracts has been invaluable in my work as a publisher. 

Overall, it's not always easy to balance my studies with my work, but I'm committed to making it work. I'm passionate about both law and literature, and I believe that they complement each other in many ways.

Are there any transferable skills between law and publishing that you’ve found particularly useful?

I've found that many transferable skills between law and publishing have been incredibly useful in my work as a publisher and writer.

One of the most significant transferable skills is attention to detail. As a law student, I'm trained to carefully analyse and interpret complex texts, which has helped me to develop a keen eye for detail. This skill has been invaluable in my work as a publisher, where I need to carefully review manuscripts, contracts, and other documents to ensure accuracy and quality.

Another transferable skill is analytical thinking. In law, I'm trained to analyse complex information, identify patterns and relationships, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills have been highly transferable to my work in publishing, where I need to analyse manuscripts, identify market trends, and develop effective marketing strategies.

My training in law has also given me a strong understanding of contracts, copyright law, and other legal issues that are relevant to the publishing industry. This knowledge has been incredibly valuable in my work as a publisher, where I need to negotiate contracts, manage intellectual property rights, and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Finally, my experience in law has taught me the importance of clear and effective communication. As a publisher, I need to be able to communicate complex ideas and information to authors, editors, designers, and other stakeholders. My training in law has helped me to develop strong communication skills, which have been essential in my work as a publisher.

Overall, I've found that my training in law has provided me with a unique set of skills that have been highly transferable to my work in publishing.

How do you see your work in law and publishing intersecting or informing one another in the future?

I envision my work in law and publishing intersecting and informing one another in several ways in the future.

As a publisher, I'm committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and representation in literature. My training in law has given me a deep understanding of the legal frameworks that govern issues like copyright, intellectual property, and freedom of expression. In the future, I see myself using this knowledge to advocate for policies and laws that support the creation and dissemination of diverse and inclusive literature.

Additionally, my experience in publishing has given me a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing authors, publishers, and readers in the digital age. As a lawyer, I'm interested in exploring the legal implications of emerging trends in publishing, such as the rise of self-publishing, the growth of online platforms, and the increasing importance of intellectual property rights.

I also see myself using my skills and knowledge in law and publishing to support and empower marginalised communities. For example, I might work with authors and publishers to develop contracts and agreements that protect the rights and interests of marginalised writers. Alternatively, I might use my knowledge of copyright law to help such communities protect and preserve their cultural heritage.

Overall, I believe that my work in law and publishing will continue to intersect and inform one another in meaningful and impactful ways. By combining my knowledge and skills in these two areas, I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of writers, readers, and communities around the world.

Perhaps it is a stereotypical stance—but rumours have it that Ugandans are poor readers, thus affecting the book sales by writers and publishers; what have you discovered in the short period you have been in the publishing industry?

The notion that Ugandans are poor readers is a common stereotype, but I've discovered that it's not entirely accurate. While it's true that reading habits and book sales may not be as robust as in other parts of the world, I've found out that there is a growing and vibrant literary community in Uganda.

In my short time in the publishing industry, the enthusiasm and appetite for books among Ugandan readers has encouraged me. I've seen firsthand the excitement and engagement that readers exhibit when they encounter books that resonate with them, whether it's a novel that explores themes of identity and culture, or a collection of poetry that speaks to their human experience.

That being said, I also recognise that there are challenges that affect book sales and reading habits in Uganda. One of the major challenges is access to books, particularly in rural areas where bookstores and libraries may be scarce. Additionally, the high cost of books can be a barrier for many readers, particularly students and low-income individuals.

To address these challenges, I believe that publishers, authors, and other stakeholders need to be creative in their approaches to promote reading and book sales. This might include initiatives such as book clubs, literary festivals, and online platforms that make books more accessible and affordable to readers.

Overall, while there may be challenges to overcome, I'm optimistic about the future of reading and publishing in Uganda. With the right support and initiatives, I believe that we can foster a vibrant and thriving literary culture that benefits readers, writers, and publishers alike.

It is every writer’s role to clip the wings of societal subjugation; Okot p’Bitek did it; John Ruganda did it, and many other writers. With Uganda withering democratically, what has been your role in restoring the proletariat’s hope?

As a publisher and writer, I believe that it's my responsibility to use my platform to amplify the voices of marginalised communities and to challenge societal norms and power structures that perpetuate inequality and oppression.

In Uganda, where democratic freedoms are being eroded and the rights of citizens trampled upon, I believe that writers and publishers have a critical role to play in speaking truth to power and in giving voice to the voiceless.

Through my work at Desha Publishing House, I've sought to publish books and authors that challenge the status quo and offer alternative perspectives on the world. I've also sought to create a platform for marginalised voices to be heard, whether through our publishing programme, our literary magazine, or our social media channels.

One way we've done this is by publishing books that tackle tough social and political issues, such as corruption, inequality, and human rights abuses. We've also published books that celebrate the diversity and richness of Ugandan culture, and those that offer alternative perspectives on the country's history and identity.

In addition to publishing books, we've also sought to create a community of writers and readers who are committed to social justice and democratic values. We've done this through our literary events and festivals, which bring together writers, artists, and activists to discuss the key issues of the day.

Overall, I believe that writers and publishers have a critical role to play in restoring the proletariat's hope and in challenging the forces of oppression and inequality. Through my work at Desha Publishing House, I'm committed to doing my part in this struggle.

What advice would you give our readers, especially the young people who intend to take up the writing and publishing path?

To our readers, especially the young people who intend to take up the writing and publishing path, I would offer the following advice:

First, develop a passion for reading and writing. Read widely and voraciously, paying attention to different styles, genres, and authors. Write regularly, experimenting with different forms and voices.

Second, be authentic to your voice. Don't try to imitate others or follow trends. Instead, find your unique perspective and style, and stay committed to it.

Third, be patient and persistent. Writing and publishing can be challenging and unpredictable, with many twists and turns along the way. Don't get discouraged by setbacks or rejections. Keep writing, learning, and growing, and eventually, your hard work will pay off.

Fourth, learn about the publishing industry and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments. Understand the different roles and players in the industry, from authors and agents to publishers and distributors.

Fifth, build a community of fellow writers and publishing professionals. Attend writing workshops and conferences, join writing groups and online forums, and connect with other writers and publishers on social media.

Sixth, be open to learning and growth. The writing and publishing landscape is constantly evolving, and it's essential to stay adaptable and responsive to change.

Seventh, don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Writing and publishing can be unpredictable, and sometimes the best opportunities arise from taking calculated risks.

Lastly, remember why you started writing in the first place. Whether it's to tell stories, share ideas, or connect with others, keep your passion and purpose at the forefront of your work.