Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania Represented on the 2024 Toyin Falola Prize Shortlist

The shortlisted writers for the 2024 Toyin Falola Prize have just been announced. The list includes writers from Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Divine Inyang Titus’ was shortlisted for “Fibers from the deep,”Mlilo Mpondo for “A Place like Here,” Mohammad Haruna for “The Harvestor’s Commandment”  Nwafor Emmanuel for “The Recrudescence,” and Immaculate Halla for “The Blood We Tie.” The five writers on this list were selected from a longlist that was initially announced in June.

Toyin Falola is an African historian and professor known for his work research and writing about African culture. The Toyin Falola Prize, organized by Lunaris, honors writers who embody the spirit of African literature, much like Toyin Falola himself. Over the past four years, the Prize has grown in popularity, with an increasing number of submissions each year.

The theme of this year’s edition of the prize is “Sacred.” The five writers selected for this shortlist were chosen from hundreds of submissions. Their work spans a range of themes, from the exploration of identity and family dynamics to the revelation of haunting secrets. See below for the judges’ citation:

Divine Inyang Titus’ “Fibers from the deep,” for its probing exploration of its main character’s journey through spiritual questioning, family dynamics, and personal growth amidst turmoil. It delves deep into themes of identity, belief, and connection, culminating in a poignant exploration of love and loss within the family amidst steadfast faith.

“A Place like Here” by Mlilo Mpondo strength lies in its authentic portrayal of marginalised characters navigating Yeoville’s gritty streets and the contrasting northern suburbs of Johannesburg. This story weaves together themes of identity, survival, and resilience through vivid storytelling and cultural insights, offering a compelling exploration of human experiences and societal inequities and inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of urban life and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.

“The Harvestor’s Commandment” by Mohammad Haruna intricately weaves themes of privilege, moral dilemma, and spiritual redemption through Tasam’s journey from luxury to expulsion and ultimate pilgrimage. It offers a poignant take on the consequences of transgressing sacred duties in pursuit of power and understanding.

Immaculate Halla “The Blood We Tie” captivates with its arresting portrayal of familial loyalty and moral dilemmas amidst profound personal struggles. Through the main character’s harrowing choices and the sisters’ unwavering support, the narrative sets the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting repercussions of buried secrets.

“The Recrudescence” by Nwafor Emmanuel enthralls with its vivid depiction of a village upended by the mysterious stranger Mmiri, whose arrival ignites a tumult of greed, envy, and otherworldly repercussions. Through vibrant characters and a compelling storyline, the narrative delves into the clash between human desires and divine intervention, weaving moral quandaries and unforeseen twists that captivate readers until its haunting resolution.

Judges Chinua Enzenwa-Ohaeto and Gil Ndi-Shang will select a single winner from these five writers to receive The Toyin Falola Prize.