Sharjah to host Africa’s most iconic literary voices this January

The first-ever Sharjah Festival of African Literature (SFAL) will bring together more than 37 distinguished authors from both the UAE and Africa, including Nobel Prize winners, representing over 10 countries. Set to take place from January 24th to 27th at University City in Sharjah, the festival seeks to celebrate Africa's rich literary tradition and strengthen cultural ties between the African continent and the Arab world.

Among a host of notable guests, here are five standout figures who will headline the event:

Wole Soyinka

As a Nobel laureate and one of Africa's most influential writers, Soyinka's presence at the festival is highly significant. His contributions to literature, theater, and activism are monumental, and his works, such as A Dance of the Forests and The Man Died: Prison Notes of Wole Soyinka, have shaped global conversations around freedom, politics, and human rights. His participation will likely be a highlight of the festival.

Wole Soyinka has shaped global conversations around freedom, politics, and human rights. IMDb

Abdulrazak Gurnah

Another Nobel laureate, Gurnah’s work, which often explores themes of migration, exile, and colonial legacies, is deeply impactful. His novel Paradise was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, and his more recent work Afterlives has received critical acclaim. Gurnah's presence reinforces the festival's theme of bridging African and Arab worlds, as his works often focus on East African experiences and histories that resonate across cultures.

His novels depict a culturally diversified East Africa.The Nobel Prize

Nnedi Okorafor

A global literary star, Okorafor’s works have earned her a spot on the New York Times bestseller list and recognition with prestigious awards such as the Hugo and Nebula. Her works, which blend African folklore, science fiction, and Afrofuturism—such as Binti and Lagoon—have made a significant impact on the genre and on the global literary scene. Okorafor’s voice is crucial for contemporary African literature, particularly for youth and global readers seeking diverse narratives in speculative fiction.

Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi

Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi is a celebrated Ugandan novelist and short story writer known for her powerful exploration of themes such as identity, gender, migration, and African history. She has received international recognition for her insightful storytelling and distinctive voice within contemporary African literature.

https://jennifermakumbi.net/about

Wana Udobang

Wana Udobang is a Nigerian poet, artist, and multifaceted creative recognised for her distinctive voice in contemporary African literature, particularly through her exploration of identity, empowerment, and social justice issues. Known for her bold, intersectional work, Udobang engages with themes of gender, culture, and personal expression, using various mediums to amplify underrepresented voices.

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In addition to these writers, figures like Lola Shoneyin, and Yvonne Owuor are also important voices shaping contemporary African literature, particularly through their exploration of African history, culture, and gender.

The mix of Nobel laureates, contemporary trailblazers like Okorafor and Huchu, and key African literary figures makes this festival an important event for anyone interested in African and global literature.