Congo’s Mujila wins Etisalat Prize for Literature

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

He defeated two other authors; Penny Busetto (The Story of Anna P as told by herself) and What will People Say by Rehana Rossouw to win the prestigious literary prize.

The winner was announced Saturday night at a colourful grand finale held at Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, by a panel of judges, led by Professor Ato Quayson, who disclosed that over 100 entries were received which were shotlisted to three.

Mujila received a cash prize of 15000 pounds.

The Flash Fiction category was won by Kuti Ojuolape Modupe for her story titled Gone.

Announcing her winner, Chair of the judges Mr Toni Kani said

Kuti’s Gone emerged winner out of over 1300 entries.

He 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.

His words: “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.”

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr Matthew Wilsher, in his opening remarks, noted that the “Etisalat Prize for Literature reflects this year’s theme, ‘Representing the Diversity of African Voices’, “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 recognising writers and rewarding publishers.

“At Etisalat we don’t just invest money but also invest time”.