By Yunus S Saliu
The National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC) on Wednesday marked World Book and Copyright Day with a day-long celebration held in Mansakonko.
The celebration brought together: artists, authors, security personnel, government officials and other stakeholders from the Lower River Region (LRR).
The event, hosted at the Office of the Governor of the Lower River Region, was described as a milestone for the region’s creative sector. It forms part of global commemorations observed annually on 23 April under UNESCO, aimed at promoting reading culture, books and the protection of copyright.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, NCAC Copyright Officer Fatima Camara expressed satisfaction with the turnout, noting that it was the first time the institution had taken the celebration to the Lower River Region. She thanked participants for their hospitality and encouraged active engagement throughout the programme.
“Today marks a very important occasion,” she said, adding that the gathering should serve as a platform for meaningful exchange, networking and strengthening of professional relationships among stakeholders in the creative industry.
NCAC Director General Hassoum Ceesay underscored the importance of copyright protection for creators and national development. He urged artists and writers to register their works to safeguard their intellectual property and improve their livelihoods, warning that technological advances have increased risks of piracy and unauthorized use of creative works.
He further called for greater participation in discussions on copyright issues, stressing the need to build a stronger and more sustainable creative industry.
“We must ensure that our industry grows stronger, secures a better future for creators, and creates an environment where the sector can thrive,” he said.
On behalf of the Governor of the Lower River Region, Deputy Governor Modou Camara welcomed the NCAC delegation and participants, describing the event as evidence of the institution’s commitment to decentralising support for the creative sector.
He also highlighted the importance of raising awareness among local artists about their rights and the need to protect their works, while thanking organisers for bringing the celebration to the region.