Khainga O’Okwemba, the voice behind literary show ‘The Books Café’ on KBC English Service, has been honoured by the Kenya Publishers Association (KPA) for his role in championing literature and culture.
The award was presented during the 26th anniversary of the Nairobi International Book Fair at the Sarit Centre Expo hall in Westlands.
A poet, essayist, and travelogue writer, O’Okwemba has spent over a decade curating conversations with some of the most celebrated writers and scholars on his Saturday afternoon programme. In the process, he has created a rare national archive of literary voices, both Kenyan and international.
Speaking to KBC Digital about the award, Mr O’Okwemba said: “I am humbled by this recognition; however, it is a call to duty, a reminder that we should not drop the ball. I am aware that throughout the evolution of human history, man has always tried and succeeded in recording his existence and experiences, whether it was by rock painting, or hieroglyphics; our progenitors wrote about their existence, so mine is a continuation of a long tradition.”
Beyond radio, he has been a fearless literary commentator in print, writing for The Standard, Daily Nation, and The Star, where his ‘Literary Postcard’ column became a staple for book lovers.
He is also a familiar face at book launches, public lectures, and writing workshops, often bridging the gap between authors, editors, and publishers.
Additionally, at KBC, Mr O’Okwemba also serves as Sub-Editor of The Mast, the corporation’s official magazine.
In his remarks, he also thanked the corporation for its support throughout the years.
“I must thank Kenya Broadcasting Corporation for giving me the opportunity to do this and contribute in building a national treasure of literature and cultural material for our archive.”
