Sharjah Festival Of African Literature Features 37 Renowned Authors Including Nobel Laureates

The Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) will debut with over 37 renowned authors from the UAE and Africa, including Nobel laureates. Scheduled from 24th to 27th January at University City, Sharjah, the event aims to celebrate Africa's rich creative heritage and strengthen its ties with the Arab world.

Central to the festival are Nobel laureates Wole Soyinka and Abdulrazak Gurnah. Their significant contributions to literature have resonated globally. The festival will also feature Emirati authors like Dr. Abdulaziz Almusallam, Dr. Mariam Alhashmi, and Salha Obaid, showcasing the UAE's literary renaissance.

Nigerian lawyer Ifeoma Esiri, known for founding ZODML libraries, will participate. Her efforts make knowledge accessible to underprivileged communities. Nigerian novelist Chika Unigwe, whose works explore human relationships and women's issues, adds intellectual depth to the event.

Also attending is Nigerian writer Lola Shoneyin, who supports contemporary African voices. Emmanuella Aminat Bawa-Allah, a literary consultant and curator, will contribute expertise to vibrant discussions. Zimbabwean author Tendai Huchu brings his imaginative narratives in science fiction and fantasy.

Nigerian-American Nnedi Okorafor will join the festival. Her works have appeared on The New York Times bestseller list and won prestigious awards like the Hugo and Nebula Awards. Ugandan novelist Jennifer Makumbi is known for her acclaimed work "The First Woman," which won the Jhalak Prize.

Nigerian poet Wana Udobang explores themes of identity and empowerment through multidisciplinary work. Kenyan storyteller Mara Menzies combines traditional oral storytelling with contemporary theatre, captivating audiences worldwide.

Celebrating African Heritage

The festival highlights leading African literary figures such as Nigerian engineer Wole Talabi. His novel "Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon" is recognised among top science fiction works. Kenyan publisher Wendy Njoroge promotes African literature through Soma Nami Books.

Nigerian poet Deborah Johnson addresses youth and community issues through impactful works. Kenyan writer Yvonne Owuor delves into Africa's history and culture with compelling narratives that illuminate the continent's past.

Innovative Voices in Literature

Nigerian creator Abdulkareem Baba Aminu represents a bold voice in African literature with his graphic novels and contributions to Afrofuturism. Nigerian poet Dami Ajayi explores identity themes in his work "A Woman’s Body Is a Country."

Ghanaian author Cheryl Ntumy excels in speculative fiction featured in prestigious journals worldwide. Nigerian novelist Nnamdi Ehirim tackles coming-of-age themes in complex contexts through politically charged works.

Engaging Cultural Narratives

Kenyan author Peter Kimani is celebrated for his novel "Dance of the Jakaranda," named one of The New York Times’ notable books of 2017. Kenanao Phele from Botswana brings insights into Southern Africa's literary scene as co-founder of the Gaborone Book Festival.

Nigerian writer Fatima Bala explores compelling narratives in her works "Broken" and "Hafsa Bibi." Dr. Olakun Soyinka combines medicine with literary endeavours, while Zimbabwean author Petina Gappah blends literature with law and diplomacy in acclaimed books like "The Book of Memory."

Cultural Performances

South African soprano Ann Mckayzie promises evocative performances at the festival, having excelled globally in artistic productions. Nigerian filmmaker Ade Bantu brings vibrant energy with his creative initiatives as leader of the band BANTU.

Maryam Bukar Hassan, known as "Islamic Melodies," champions African creative culture through performance poetry focused on youth empowerment among young women.

With inputs from WAM