The writer, translator and translation studies scholar Wangui wa Goro has said African writers are still living in precarious conditions.
This, she said, is because they are fearless and speak truth to power.
Wa Goro commended young African writers for shining their light across the world with their literary work.
Speaking with Nana Yaa Mensah on Sunday Night on Asaase 99.5 Accra, Goro said: “… the resourcing is still not very strong. African writers are still living in precarious conditions because they tell the truth; they hold the mirror to society and until society is beautiful that relationship will continue.
“So, we have artists and cultural people as holders of the mirror, [and] it’s still a tensed relationship with these governments.
“But literature is taught in the African curriculum and for me that’s what matters the most. The publishing houses are also doing a great job to bring [out] the young voices and now they are recognised internationally.”
She added: “We have superstar writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Having her presence out there, giving big speeches at universities, is also something to applaud, although I think there are many superstar writers on the continent.
“I would like to see more of them exposed on the global stage as she has lit up the path for this generation.
“… even in these last post-COVID years, I can see a new shift of energy in this space …”
Tribute to Ama Ata Aidoo
The translation studies scholar also paid glowing tribute to the renowned Ghanaian poet, playwright, novelist and short story writer Ama Ata Aidoo.
She said: “… we have all lost a very special person in society. Ama is known beyond the literary work. She was a minister of education, she was outspoken on Africa and African diasporan issuesn and a very courageous voice.”
“She was an immense voice … I’m personally very sad because I was privileged to know her from an early age and I encountered the person before I encountered her work … She had a succinctly clear view about Africa.”
Ama Ata Aidoo passed away in the early hours of Wednesday 31 May 2023 after a short illness. She was 81.
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