Congolese Fiston Mujila wins 2015 Etisalat Prize for Literature

OndoReporter | Congolese Fiston Mujila wins 2015 Etisalat Prize for Literature

Congolese born Fiston Mwanza Mujila has
won the 2015 Etisalat Prize for Literature for
his book, titled 'Tram 83.'

A panel of judges, led by Professor Ato
Quayson adjudged Mwanza's Tram 83 the
winner of the prize for 2015 after beating
two other authors; Penny Busetto ( The Story
of Anna P as told by herself) and "What will
People Say" by Rehana Rossouw.
According to Prof Quayson, out of 100
entries received which were pruned to 9 and
finally 3, Tram 83 emerged winner.

He received a cash prize of 15,000 pounds.
On the Flash Fiction category, Kuti Ojuolape
Modupe won for her story titled 'Gone'. She
emerged winner out of over 1300 entries.
Announcing her winner, Chair of the judges
Mr Toni Kani congratulated her for the feat.
He also commended Etisalat Nigeria for the
integrity it has shown over the years which is
evident in the quality of books that have won
the prestigious prize.

He said "out of over 1300 entries received in
the Flash Fiction category, only 50 were
selected. The entries all expressed our
emotions and issues that affect us as a
people."

The Chief Executive Officer Etisalat Nigeria,
Mr Matthew Wilsher in his opening remarks,
said that the "Etisalat Prize for Literature
bears out this years theme, Representing the
Diversity of African Voices as something that
is the beauty of it and a foundation for
innovation which is something we truly
believe in, something in our roots. Diversity
is very true in literature while innovation is
very important in literary world. The diversity
in literature is key.

It
is not about the cheque of 15,000 pounds
but about recognizing writers and rewarding
publishers.

At Etisalat we don't just invest money but
also invest time"

He thanked all those who entered the Prize
adding that Etisalat is proud to be
associated with what the three shortlisted
authors have done.