The President of the Republic described, this Thursday (30), the recognition of Paulina Chiziane as Best African Writer of 2026 as a source of “national pride.” The distinction was awarded in Angola במסגרת the African Award — Creators and Directors Excellence.
According to Lusa, in a message released by the Presidency, Daniel Chapo stressed that the award represents not only recognition of a well-established literary career, but also the valorisation of Mozambican culture on the international stage.
“This recognition constitutes a source of pride for all Mozambicans, as it honours a literary journey marked by authenticity, courage, and a deep commitment to affirming African culture,” said the head of state.
The distinction was announced on Tuesday in Luanda, highlighting Paulina Chiziane as “Best African Writer of 2026.” The author, who had already received the Camões Prize in 2021, further reinforces her position as one of the most prominent voices in contemporary African literature.
In the same message, the President praised the writer’s contribution to projecting Mozambique onto the international literary stage, emphasizing the social impact of her work. “Her work continues to inspire generations, contributing to the strengthening of collective awareness and the appreciation of our cultural roots in a global context,” he stated.
Born in Manjacaze in 1955, Paulina Chiziane is recognised as the first Mozambican woman to publish a novel, with Balada de Amor ao Vento in 1990. Over more than three decades, she has built a body of work marked by the exploration of social, cultural, and identity themes, including titles such as Ventos do Apocalipse, Niketche: A Story of Polygamy, and The Joyful Song of the Partridge.
Her literary output also includes works such as O Sétimo Juramento, As Andorinhas, Na Mão de Deus, and O Canto dos Escravos, consolidating a career widely recognised both domestically and internationally.
Source: Diário Económico
