Royal Academy of Morocco honours Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka

By Ramlat Ibrahim

The Royal Academy of Morocco in Rabat has paid tribute to the illustrious Nigerian writer and Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, at a special ceremony commemorating his 90th birthday.

The Academy, in partnership with the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), acknowledged Soyinka’s extraordinary achievements and profound impact on African and global literature, his tireless advocacy for social justice, and his unwavering dedication to promoting and preserving African cultures.

The occasion, which drew a distinguished gathering of cultural luminaries, scholars, and diplomatic dignitaries, served as a testament to Soyinka’s remarkable career.

Abdeljalil Lahjomri, Permanent Secretary of the Royal Academy, lauded Soyinka in a recent interview with the local press, hailing him as a steadfast champion of African cultures and a perceptive chronicler of the continent’s experiences.

Lahjomri praised Soyinka’s courageous stance against the Negritude movement and unwavering commitment to challenging oppressive forces, acknowledging his dedication to authentic African storytelling and his unrelenting pursuit of truth and justice.

Prof. Raphael Liogier from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University hailed the event as a powerful symbol of Africa’s vast potential.

He stated that honoring luminaries like Soyinka serves as a testament to the continent’s capacity for global influence and its ability to foster meaningful connections with the world.

By celebrating Soyinka’s achievements, Liogier noted, Africa is showcasing its capacity to produce exceptional talent and asserting its presence on the global stage.

Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of PAWA, joined in the accolades, extolling Soyinka’s multifaceted literary prowess.

He said: “Soyinka’s remarkable body of work, spanning poetry, drama, novels, essays, and satire, serves as a beacon of inspiration for emerging African writers.”

In his address at the celebration, Soyinka conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the honor bestowed upon him, underscoring the significance of this recognition in fostering stronger cultural bonds between Morocco and West Africa.

He highlighted the rich historical connections between the two regions, particularly the enduring ties between Morocco and Senegal, fondly recalling his personal friendship with the late President Léopold Senghor of Senegal as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and solidarity.