According to a statement sent to VerAngola by the organizers, the work was chosen from dozens of finalists from across the African continent by an international jury composed of literary critics, renowned writers, and experts in contemporary African literature.
"With a powerful and sensitive narrative, the book stands out for its social critique and profound reflection on themes such as justice, memory, and human dignity," the organization stated.
"This is a novel that forces us to confront the open wounds of recent African history, with mature, intense, and deeply human writing," said the jury president, Wanjiku Mugo, during the ceremony announcing the winner.
Upon learning the result, Nituecheni Africano reacted with emotion and humility: "This recognition is, above all, a tribute to the struggle for justice that so many Africans have faced—and still face. 'The Recluse' was born from pain, but also from the hope that our stories can illuminate paths. I am deeply honored by this award and grateful to see African literature increasingly gaining the recognition it deserves."
Nituecheni Africano will receive a prize of 5000 dollars, in addition to the Sankofa Trophy, a symbol of the recovery and appreciation of African memory. His or her winning work will be translated into English, French, and one of Kenya's national languages.
The official award ceremony will take place on September 26th in Nairobi, during a literary gala that will bring together writers, editors, journalists, diplomats, and intellectuals from around the world. The winner will be present, along with other finalist authors.
The Sankofa Book Awards were created to celebrate African literary excellence, highlighting works that recover, preserve, and reimagine the African experience in its multiple voices and languages. The awards are hosted in Kenya, with continental reach and growing international recognition, according to the organization.
