The seventh Nommo Awards, which recognize the best African science fiction, were announced last weekend at the 82nd World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) in Glasgow.
The prestigious event, organized by the African Speculative Fiction Society (ASFS), highlighted the outstanding contributions of African writers and artists in the fields of science fiction, fantasy, horror and philosophical fiction.
According to a statement, the ceremony, which was hosted by renowned Zimbabwean author Tendai Huchu, brought together luminaries of African literature including Nnedi Okorafor, Wole Talabi, Suyi Davies Okungbowa and Oghenechovwe Donald Ekpeki. A special guest of honour, Tom Ilube CBE, after whom the award for best novel is named, lent a touch of philanthropy and passion to the event, underlining the importance of supporting African storytelling on the global stage.
This year’s winners included Wole Talabi, who received the Ilube Award for Best Science Fiction Novel for Shigdi and the Brass Head of Obalufona work that is praised for its imaginative fusion of African mythology and science fiction. The award for best novella went to Stephen Embleton for Wave movementa moving story in Mothersound: The Sauútiverse Anthology.
In the “Best Graphic Novel” category, there were two winners in a rare tie: Grimm’s assistant by Mamode Ogbewele and Chigozie Amadi and WindMaker Volume 1 by Roye Okupe and Sunkanmi Akinboye. Both works have been praised for their visual storytelling and rich cultural references.
The award for the best short story went to Gabrielle Emem Harry for My name is a request and a prophecy, a captivating story that has resonated with readers due to its exploration of identity and destiny.
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The Nommo Awards, named after the mythical creatures of the Dogon people, have become a major platform for African science fiction, offering a unique insight into the continent’s diverse and complex narratives. With record-breaking nominations this year, the awards showcased the talents of writers and artists from Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, Tanzania and Sierra Leone, among others.
The Nommo Awards are both a celebration and a beacon, shining a spotlight on stories that challenge, inspire and expand the imagination.
For more details about the winners and their works, visit the official Nommo Awards website.: https://www.africansfs.com/nommo-awards/2024-nommo-awards-winners
