Marape’s support for local writers inspiring

IT is very uplifting and inspiring to read of Prime Minister James Marape’s strong ambition to help local writers (The National, Feb 4, Weekender).
He is the first prime minister who is willing to recognise local writers and their unique needs.
Prominent writers in the likes of Sir Ignatius Kilage, Nora Vagi Brash, Steven Winduo, Sir Vincent Eri and many other notable names have set the stage for further growth of a literary culture.
But I doubt that they have had any breakthrough support and recognition from any past governments. I commend the outstanding and persistent efforts of renowned journalist and energetic local author Daniel Kumbon for finally piercing the veil that has blocked past governments from recognising this small but significant industry.
You deserve praise from all Papua New Guinean writers, past and present.
There are real challenges facing writers in the country.
For a start, Papua New Guinea doesn’t have a strong book culture and that breeds ignorance of the value of documented knowledge.
Adding to that is the rather embryonic nature of the publishing industry in the country, which has forced many to abandon their literary pursuits or to opt for self-publishing, which is risky and unsustainable at most.
The cost of writing and publishing is another reason why many promising and energetic writers have gone into oblivion with their wonderful best seller ideas.
Those who successfully publish through established and internationally renowned publishers receive meagre bucks for their hard work. These are some of the notable challenges facing us ever since.
Writing offers enormous benefits and is a scalable business niche.
Apart from local consumption, PNG can export local content/knowledge to the world through books.
Who knows; one day a Papua New Guinean can hit the New York Times Best Seller list with a stunning and captivating novel.
Anything is possible for our writers, but first things first; authentic and serious support for the industry will take it to unimaginable levels.
Marape, given your cool-headed brand of leadership, I know that you will breathe new life into the writing industry after returning from China.
Your local writers eagerly await the day of their liberation from their debilitating cages.

Jeffery G Wama,
Author and Publisher