Celebrated Zimbabwean novelist, filmmaker, and activist Tsitsi Dangarembga has been recognised for her resilience in championing the cause of human rights, democracy, and freedom of individuals in Zimbabwe. Dangarembga will receive the Africa Freedom Prize on October 5 at Market Theatre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The award, which recognises the award-winning author for her boldness in addressing social and political issues in Zimbabwe, is courtesy of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF).
FNF in an official statement on their website, wrote:
“The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is proud to announce that it will be awarding the Africa Freedom Prize to renowned Zimbabwean author, novelist, playwright, and screenwriter, Tsitsi Dangarembga, in recognition of her unwavering resilience and commitment to the cause of political reform and freedom in Zimbabwe.
“Tsitsi Dangarembga, a prominent literary figure, gained international acclaim for her literary works and activism.
Her recent arrest for staging a peaceful protest demanding political reform in Zimbabwe served as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those advocating for change in the country.
“Despite the adversity she faced, Tsitsi Dangarembga continued to be a symbol of courage and determination.
“The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom has closely followed the trial of Tsitsi Dangarembga, along with that of Barnes, and was committed to monitoring the proceedings from the very beginning.
“Fungisai Sithole, an employee of the Foundation, was present at the court to observe and report on the trial’s developments.
“The significance of an internationally renowned author being tried in her own homeland cannot be overstated.
“This case has garnered significant attention worldwide, shedding light on the challenges faced by activists, writers, and advocates for political reform in Zimbabwe, where such trials are sadly a daily occurrence,” the statement read.
Tsitsi Dangarembga is well-known for her relentless efforts to fight injustice and protect the rights of Zimbabweans and the entire African Continent, and a prominent critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
In 2022, the author of Nervous Conditions was arrested and detained by the Government of Zimbabwe for staging a protest. The government considered the demonstration an insurrection against the authorities.
Tsitsi was bundled into a Police lorry alongside her friend and fellow protester, Julie Barnes along with their protesting placards.
She was later found guilty according to a Zimbabwean court, and handed a six-month suspended jail sentence along with a fine.
Over the years, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom has honoured many prominent individuals who have shown remarkable courage in championing the cause of change in their various countries. They include multiple award-winning Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, former leader of the opposition in South Africa Mmusi Maimane, radio personality Gareth Cliff, Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and former Guinean Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Dialloe.