'They are Born,' a novel, is the latest work of Modou Lamin Sowe, who is the country's leading contemporary young author and scholar, and one of the most promising young authors currently in West Africa.
Modou Lamin is the author of several books, including Don’t Judge the Book by Its Cover; Throne of the Ghost; The Memories of Reflection; and AfriKa, Not AfriCa. He has also been featured in Twaweza, a celebrated anthology of writers across the continent.
As a novelist, playwright, poet, literary activist and scholar, he has enormously contributed to shaping contemporary Gambian literature, not only being the founder of the Young Writers' Association of The Gambia (YWAG) but also serving as a facilitator in trainings, coordinator of book launches, reviewing books, mentoring aspiring writers and being engaged in other activities.
His writings, however, address critical themes such as identity, culture, social transformation, youth empowerment, and Pan-African expression.
He equally has multiple awards under his belt, such as the African Literature Award.
According to the organisers of the events, "They Are Born” continues that legacy, reaffirming the power of literature as a tool for social reflection, education, and cultural continuity.
In the same vein, the 'National Conference on Youth Development and Nation Building Through Literature' is projected to rally scholars, educators, writers, students in academia and cultural practitioners to chart ways literature and education contribute to youth empowerment and national development.
The conference format includes panel discussions, academic paper presentations, and interactive workshops.
Meanwhile, organisers welcome submissions (readgambiafoundation@gmail.com) of paper proposals or speaking requests on or before 28 February 2026. Notifications will be communicated no later than 10 March 2026.
