Latest news with #SharjahFestivalofAfricanLiterature
The National
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
How Nnedi Okorafor is redefining the sci-fi novel with Death of the Author
It's not often we see an author in the UAE discussing a blockbuster novel at the moment of release. But when Nnedi Okorafor appeared at the Sharjah Festival of African Literature, just days after the publication of Death of the Author, the novel had industry tongues wagging because of a reported seven – figure advance from William Morrow, an imprint of publisher HarperCollins. No wonder then that Okorafor took the stage with quiet confidence – she already knew she was on to a winner. Death of the Author is an engaging yet complex and multi – layered story. Part-fiction and part-philosophical treatise, it's also a novel about a novel. The story follows Zelu, a Nigerian-American author who, after enduring severe personal and professional setbacks, retreats to write Rusted Robots, a speculative science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic city where humans coexist with androids and artificially intelligent machines. This inner narrative raises timely questions about human autonomy as we edge closer to the threshold of machine consciousness. Released on January 14, Death of the Author debuted on many US bestseller lists and received a glowing endorsement from Games of Thrones author George R R Martin. While pleased with the initial hype, Okorafor is even more content with readers engaging with the work's existential themes. 'I am trying to expand the idea of what a science fiction novel can be,' she tells The National. 'Because this book literally has chapters written by a robot – as part of a novel about post-human robots inhabiting the world – but it is all presented in a clearly literary way.' More than a genre trope, Okarafor uses this android – named Ankara – to explore the unnerving prospect of what the world could be once we have all perished. 'What humanity will always leave behind is our stories and Ankara basically goes around mining and collecting them,' she says. 'Those stories go on to be separate from their authors. They remain and exist and these robots go on to basically worship them.' The plot is partly a rebuke to the central theme of Roland Barthes' 1967 essay – from which the novel takes its title – in which the French literary theorist argued that true appreciation and understanding of a text only occurs when divorced from the author's biography and intentions. Okorafor is not a fan of the view – 'I despise that essay' – stating that it strips writers of their agency, particularly those from Africa whose cultures have been increasingly commodified at the expense of personal narratives. It also explains why she chose not to use the novel's original title – The African Futurist – as it risked being misunderstood for Afrofuturism, a contentious concept Okorafor has been actively challenging in her writing for the past five years. According to her, Afrofuturism is problematic because it explores African-themed science fiction through an American lens. A more suitable alternative, she argues, is the self-coined 'African futurism' – a subtle yet significant shift that places African voices at the centre of their own narratives. 'It is about removing the United States from the centre of the conversation when it comes to African – rooted science fiction,' she says. 'Now, I'm Nigerian-American. I was born and raised in the United States, so it's not like I have anything against America – but I do find this approach problematic. African Futurism, which I believe Death of the Author truly belongs to, is about telling stories rooted in African culture and viewed through an African lens. It's about establishing that connection and making it clear to readers that this is where these stories begin, before they either remain here or branch off elsewhere.' This more expansive view, she notes, will lead to even more diverse stories coming into the spotlight – something the success of Black Panther proved there's a real appetite for. 'It showed that the audience is ready for these stories and many African authors have known that,' she says. 'It's about opening up space for more stories like the ones I'm telling, and like the ones many African and diaspora writers in science fiction and fantasy are telling right now. What we're doing is broadening the perspective, helping people get used to greater diversity and to more varied kinds of black stories.' Hence Okorafor's move to bring some of her stories to the screen. She is writing the screenplay for her 2014 novel Lagoon, an alien invasion tale set in Lagos, as part of a development deal with Steven Spielberg's production company Amblin Entertainment. This follows the indefinite delay of the planned HBO television adaptation of her Nebula Award-winning 2010 novel Who Fears Death. 'This is a lesson I learnt from my experience with HBO in that I have to write my own screenplay,' she notes. 'It's not just about having creative control; it's about recognising that I write stories that are new and unfamiliar to many people, and they need me there to help guide the process.' Okorafor hopes her burgeoning profile and association with Hollywood royalty could usher in more African stories to the mainstream. 'Honestly, what I want is to open more doors for others,' she says. 'One of my biggest hopes for Death of an Author is that it gives us – from authors to publishers – the space to try different kinds of things, unexpected things that go beyond what people are used to.'
Ammon
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Ammon
Sharjah Festival of African Literature concludes drawing 10,000 visitors
Ammon News - The inaugural edition of the Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) has come to a close, after welcoming an impressive gathering of over 10,000 visitors. Over four days, the festival, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), transformed the outdoor spaces of University City Hall in Sharjah into a hub of creativity, dialogue, and celebration under the theme 'The Tale of Africa.' The festival featured 29 esteemed writers from the UAE and across Africa, who shared their stories, insights, and heritage through a carefully curated programme of activities, including 8 panel discussions and 3 inspiring keynotes, in addition to 12 interactive workshops for children. Commenting on the conclusion of the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasised the festival's role as a cultural bridge between the UAE and the diverse, rich cultures of the African continent, saying, 'SFAL showcased the beauty of African peoples preserving their authentic customs and heritage. The festival demonstrated that culture is an invaluable treasure, offering profound insights into the history of communities through mediums such as the written word, folk tales, traditional music, and handicrafts. These elements not only preserve heritage but also inspire the world.' Al Ameri further noted, 'The festival aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to position literature as the centrepiece of global cultural dialogue. Under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, we have established this event as a cultural platform that elevates Sharjah's global standing as a hub for creative and intellectual exchange. We remain committed to solidifying the role of this festival in uniting creators and promoting the authentic cultural values that connect people and enrich human communication.' SFAL celebrated the intersection of African literature, art, and heritage through a vibrant programme of discussions, workshops, and performances. Highlights included 'Far Beyond Wakanda,' exploring Africa's cultural impact on global storytelling, and creative workshops on traditional crafts like pottery and jewellery-making. The festival also offered immersive experiences such as traditional drumming, storytelling, culinary workshops in the 'Cookery Corner,' and diverse food stalls, creating a sensory journey into Africa's cultural richness. Entertainment featured enthralling cultural performances, including South African opera singer Ann Masina, whose blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary melodies resonated deeply. The Masaka Kids Africana from Uganda brought infectious energy, while acrobatic and roaming performances showcased the diversity of African heritage. On the final day, intellectual engagement and cultural immersion took centre stage. Kenyan novelist Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor reflected on The Dragonfly Sea, offering insights into East African cultural worlds, while Ugandan-British novelist Jennifer Makumbi captivated audiences with themes of identity and resilience in The First Woman. A session titled 'Crafting Characters Free from Time Constraints' explored African narratives' timeless relevance, featuring distinguished writers. WAM
Sharjah 24
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Inaugural SFAL concludes drawing 10K visitors
A diverse programme of writers and activities The festival featured 29 esteemed writers from the UAE and across Africa, who shared their stories, insights, and heritage through a carefully curated programme of activities, including 8 panel discussions and 3 inspiring keynotes, in addition to 12 interactive workshops for children. Showcasing Africa's authentic customs and heritage Commenting on the conclusion of the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature, His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasised the festival's role as a cultural bridge between the UAE and the diverse, rich cultures of the African continent, saying 'SFAL showcased the beauty of African peoples preserving their authentic customs and heritage. The festival demonstrated that culture is an invaluable treasure, offering profound insights into the history of communities through mediums such as the written word, folk tales, traditional music, and handicrafts. These elements not only preserve heritage but also inspire the world.' Festival aligned with Sharjah's cultural vision Al Ameri further noted, 'The festival aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to position literature as the centerpiece of global cultural dialogue. Under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, we have established this event as a cultural platform that elevates Sharjah's global standing as a hub for creative and intellectual exchange. We remain committed to solidifying the role of this festival in uniting creators and promoting the authentic cultural values that connect people and enrich human communication.' Festival highlights and celebrations SFAL celebrated the intersection of African literature, art, and heritage through a vibrant programme of discussions, workshops, and performances. Highlights included 'Far Beyond Wakanda,' exploring Africa's cultural impact on global storytelling, and creative workshops on traditional crafts like pottery and jewellery-making. The festival also offered immersive experiences such as traditional drumming, storytelling, culinary workshops in the 'Cookery Corner,' and diverse food stalls, creating a sensory journey into Africa's cultural richness. Entertainment and cultural performances Entertainment featured enthralling cultural performances, including South African opera singer Ann Masina, whose blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary melodies resonated deeply. The Masaka Kids Africana from Uganda brought infectious energy, while acrobatic and roaming performances showcased the diversity of African heritage. Intellectual engagement and cultural immersion On the final day, intellectual engagement and cultural immersion took centre stage. Kenyan novelist Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor reflected on The Dragonfly Sea, offering insights into East African cultural worlds, while Ugandan-British novelist Jennifer Makumbi captivated audiences with themes of identity and resilience in The First Woman. A session titled 'Crafting Characters Free from Time Constraints' explored African narratives' timeless relevance, featuring distinguished writers. A successful beginning for SFAL With just one first iteration, SFAL has firmly established itself as a pillar of cultural unity, celebrating African storytelling while building bridges between cultures. Its success and reception has set the stage for an annual event of immense appeal, ensuring Africa's literary and cultural treasures continue to inspire a global audience.
Gulf Today
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Masaka Kids Africana take Sharjah litfest by storm
Bright smiles, rhythmic steps, and electrifying energy filled the air as the Masaka Kids Africana took centre stage at the Sharjah Festival of African Literature. This talented group of Ugandan children captivated the audience with their signature vibrant dances and heartwarming performances, setting the celebration stage alight. Harmonising the beats of African drums with their typical joyful and fluid movement, the ensemble drew applause and cheers from a crowd of all ages. Performing hits like One Day and Habibi, Masaka Kids Africana brought the people in the audience together, transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries. Children in the audience joined their dances, while adults were equally moved by the energy of the troupe. Founded in 2014, the Masaka Kids Africana ensemble emerged as a non-profit platform transforming the lives of children impacted by wars, famine, and disease. Many members have lost one or both parents and found solace in music and dance. With their motto, 'Dance, Rise, and Shine,' they combine artistry with social impact, supporting children's education and welfare while spreading joy worldwide through their performances. VIBRANT RHYTHMS The opening evening of the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature pulsated with the vibrant rhythms of Africa as drumbeats echoed through the air, transporting attendees' imagination to the heart of the continent's lush jungles and sprawling savannas. A troupe of performers, adorned in nature-inspired attire, roamed through the festival grounds, their movements perfectly synchronised with the pounding drums as the high-energy choreography demonstrated the pulse of African culture. The festival's entertainment had the audience elated with a mesmerising fusion of acrobatics and juggling as bowling pins effortlessly passed between troupe members in a breathtaking dance of coordination. The show reached new heights, literally, as acrobats launched into gravity-defying leaps, showcasing feats of strength and agility that had the crowd erupting in enthusiastic applause. This captivating spectacle, while highly entertaining, served as a celebration of African artistry and physical prowess, adding to the visual dimension of the festival's exploration of African culture and literature. The festival, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), will continue until January 27, 2025, and is being held at University City Hall in Sharjah, running daily from 4:00pm to 10:00pm. Performative storyteller Mara Menzies Mara Menzies, a multi-award-winning storyteller, writer, and narrative artist, left a lasting impression at the inaugural Sharjah Festival of African Literature 2025 with her brilliant live performance. Drawing on her unique Kenyan-Scottish heritage, Menzies has earned international acclaim for her ability to blend traditional folklore with personal perspectives, creating narratives that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. Before beginning her performance, Menzies shared her opinion on the incredible power of storytelling. She noted that while stories in books are 'captured in stone,' live storytelling is an ever-evolving art that allows for adaptability, where performers can infuse their own 'spices and flavours,' making each telling of a story unique. The tale of 'Washu and the forbidden meat' The centrepiece of Menzies' performance was her tale, 'Washu and the Forbidden Meat,' inspired by Kenyan folklore. The story delved into the life of Washu, a courageous and curious woman living in a community bound by the age-old taboo that forbids women from eating meat. While the origins of this custom remain shrouded in mystery, Washu, driven by curiosity and defiance, secretly tastes the forbidden food, leading to a dramatic confrontation with her community and her husband, Kamau, a respected elder. Through the story of Washu, Menzies highlighted themes of traditions and the ripple effects of societal challenges. The tale resulted in a vivid and thought-provoking exploration of culture and tradition, blending humour and emotion through her talent of storytelling. Interactive storytelling at its finest What made Menzies' performance truly unforgettable was her innovative and interactive storytelling approach. From the start, she involved the audience by teaching them a call-and-response phrase in Swahili: 'Hadithi! Hadithi!' (Story! Story!), to which they enthusiastically replied, 'Hadithi Njoo!' (Story come!). Menzies spontaneously invited members of the audience onto the stage to play key characters in her story. This unexpected participation added a layer of humour and excitement, turning the performance into a shared experience. Among the participants was Nobel Prize-winning author Abdulrazak Gurnah, who delighted the audience with his impromptu role in the unfolding narrative.
