Human Rights Activist Pens Down Another Children’s Book
Dr. Otukile, known for her dedication to addressing gender-based violence, is also the founder of the Mulher Forte African Literature Awards.
Gaborone, Botswana — Dr. Paula O.M. Otukile, a prominent gender-based violence activist from Mahalapye village, has added another feather to her cap with the release of her latest children's book, "Five Important Human Rights", writes Winston Mwale.
Dr. Otukile, known for her dedication to addressing gender-based violence, is also the founder of the Mulher Forte African Literature Awards.
Last year, Dr. Otukile initiated a gender-based violence awareness campaign in twelve schools in the South West region, where she donated her children's book, "Thato Wishes to Be a Butterfly!"
The campaign, sponsored by the German Embassy in Gaborone under the Small Fund Project Program, aimed to raise awareness about gender-based violence among school children.
Inspired by her experiences, particularly during a visit to the Dukwi refugee camp, Dr. Otukile felt compelled to address the broader spectrum of children's rights.
She emphasized that children in diverse family setups, including those at refugee centers, adopted kids, and those in SOS homes, all require protection and care.
"Five Important Human Rights" serves as an introduction to human rights for children under the age of 18. The book covers fundamental rights such as the right to life, education, health, shelter, and freedom of speech.
Dr. Otukile believes that arming children with knowledge about their rights is crucial in helping them navigate through life's challenges.
The author expressed her admiration for the Ministry of Defense and Justice in Botswana for their efforts in safeguarding school children, particularly during her visit to Dukwi. She urged the UNHRC and the ministry to continue their commendable work.
Dr. Otukile highlighted the importance of addressing societal issues through literature, urging writers to align their works with pertinent issues.
She acknowledged the challenges in the local book market, where books are not as widely valued, and bedtime stories are a rarity.
To support local authors, Dr. Otukile recommended registration with CIPA for business and COSBOTS for copyrights.
She encouraged authors to attend seminars, take advantage of grants from organizations like the Botswana National Arts Council and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture, and collaborate with stakeholders to grow their craft.
On the societal impact of her work, Dr. Otukile emphasized the role of love, kindness, and the daily promotion of virtues in liberating people from injustices. She expressed excitement about the potential of a more emancipated and enthusiastic generation of writers, despite current challenges in readership.
Looking ahead, Dr. Otukile plans to collaborate with South African opera singer Jamakazi to translate "Five Important Human Rights" into a song, further amplifying the message about human rights.
For more information, Dr. Otukile can be contacted on Facebook (Pequeno Paulihna) or via email at PaulaOtukile@gmail.com. WhatsApp inquiries can be directed to +26777458029.