The Booker Prize for Fiction has for years been criticised for favouring American novelists, and for four years running had no African writers in shortlist. Nigerian writer Chigozie Obioma has however beaten the odds as a twice shortlisted author for his novels ‘The Fishermen’ in 2015, and ‘An Orchestra of Minorities’ this year.
Arts and Culture Temple graffiti reveals stories from ancient Sudan
Visitors to these sites had one particular religious ritual that may strike some as strange: they carved graffiti in important and sacred places.
Politics and Society Nigerian artists unite in condemning brutal xenophobic attacks in South Africa
Several Nigerian artists have come out strongly condemning the violent xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The artists include Tiwa Savage who cancelled her impending show in South Africa, American-Nigerian rapper Jidenna, Burna Boy, Davido, and Teni who sent various messages in solidarity with victims of the xenophobic violence. A number of South African artists also added their voice to the outrage, posting heartfelt message against xenophobia.
Politics and Society Nigerians protest against South African owned businesses in the country
Nigerians took to the streets of Lagos, and other parts of the country, destroying and looting what they suspected to be South African owned shops, businesses and properties in retaliatory attacks. The retaliatory attacks in Lagos have shown that tension between South Africa and Nigeria is likely to continue until the deep underlying causes of self-hatred and hatred against fellow Africans are addressed.
Politics and Society Xenophobic violence spreads to Alexandra – where it started in 2008
“I don’t think I can stay here anymore. It is not safe and this happens every year” says Bangladeshi shop owner
Politics and Society Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari and VP react to xenophobic attacks on Nigerians
Nigerians are disappointed with the slow reaction of their government to the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has only addressed the country via tweets, and no specific nor substantial actions have been discussed to address the crisis. In a message President Buhari said he is “sending a Special Envoy to President Ramaphosa to share our deep concern about the security of Nigerian lives and property in South Africa”.
Politics and Society The African Union and SA President Ramaphosa condemn xenophobic violence
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa have condemned in the strongest terms, the incidents of violence against nationals of fellow African countries in South Africa. President Ramaphosa warned of action against criminals.
Politics and Society #IamNext: The abhorrent reality of femicide in South Africa
The brutal murder of University of Cape Town student Uyinene Mrwetyana in Cape Town, South Africa inside the Claremont Post Office has shocked and terrified women all around the continent. The ongoing prevalence of femicide speaks to the apathy of men and the inaction of state.
Politics and Society African nationals in South Africa experience brutal wave of xenophobic attacks
Xenophobic attacks against African immigrants, specifically targeting Nigerian and Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa have hit the country. Shops belonging to African immigrants were looted and burnt in the latest brutal attacks. There has been an uproar on social media following the latest Afrophobic attacks, with calls for stronger and decisive intervention by the government.