At the prestigious CANEX Prize for Publishing ceremony in Algiers, Layla Mohamed delivered a powerful acceptance speech after Cassava Republic Press won the prize for Female Fear Factory by Pumla Dineo Gqola. The novel, which confronts how fear is weaponised to control women’s bodies, resonated with audiences worldwide, and the prize marks another milestone for African publishing.
In her speech, Layla Mohamed celebrated not just the book, but the larger African publishing ecosystem and its significance. “This recognition is more than just a celebration of a single book: it celebrates the dedication, passion, and invisible work behind African publishing,” Layla said. She acknowledged that Female Fear Factory sends an “urgent and powerful message, not only for African societies but for the world.”
Ms Mohamed used her platform to emphasise the importance of building and supporting local publishing infrastructures that truly reflect African experiences. She highlighted the longstanding challenges faced by African publishers, who have often contended with external control over the production of African stories. “For too long, the infrastructures for the production of African stories have been controlled by external forces,” she noted, adding that the CANEX Prize symbolises a shift toward reclaiming ownership of African narratives.
Addressing her peers and fellow African publishers, she said, “A thriving publishing ecosystem is vital for nurturing talent, amplifying our voices, and safeguarding the stories that matter to us.” She passionately argued that African readers deserve literature that speaks directly to their histories, cultures, and experiences, stating, “African readers deserve books that reflect their realities and imaginings.”
Her closing words were both hopeful and resolute, calling for a future where African publishing is sustained and empowered by local recognition. “With this prize, African publishing no longer needs to wait for external validation: the most meaningful recognition will come from amongst ourselves,” she affirmed.
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Note: This article has been modified on October 20, 2024 to reflect that Layla Mohamed delivered the acceptance speech, not Bibi Bakare-Yusuf. Errors are regretted.
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