The Atelewo Cultural Initiative has announced the launch of the 5th Atelewo Prize for Yoruba Literature, featuring a grand prize of N1 million. This special edition, marking the 5th anniversary of the prize, aims to honor and promote the richness of Yoruba literature and culture, continuing Atelewo’s mission to preserve and rejuvenate the Yoruba language.
The announcement was made at a press conference organized by the Atelewo Cultural Initiative at the Leaders Hub, Bodija in Ibadan on Saturday. The event was attended by literary enthusiasts, cultural advocates, and members of the press, all eager to learn more about the special 5th anniversary edition of the prestigious Yoruba literature prize.
The Atelewo Prize for Yoruba Literature was established to address various challenges faced by creative writing in Yoruba, such as the need for committed publishers, effective distribution, and the cultivation of invested readerships. The prize aims to rejuvenate the vibrant, universally praised, and unquestionably rich Yoruba literary culture, which boasts a heritage spanning over a century.
“We accept works in four categories: Poetry, Prose, Drama, and Translation, and we are delighted to be launching the 5th edition, continuing our mission to promote Yoruba language, literature, and cultural expression,” stated one of the founders, Rasaq Malik Gbolahan. “Contrary to the previous four editions, where we usually have a grand winner and three other category winners who share the cash prize, this edition is special. We are only selecting one winner who will receive One Million Naira.”
The winner can be from any of the four established categories: Poetry, Prose, Drama, and Translation. The submitted works must not have been published, whether physically or virtually, in any form whatsoever. All submissions must follow the laid-down editorial guidelines and be sent in before November 30, 2024.
According to the organizers, previous winners from the past four editions of the prize are not eligible to contest. This rule ensures a level playing field for new and emerging voices in Yoruba literature, encouraging fresh talent and diverse contributions to the rich and vibrant Yoruba literary culture.
“We are currently launching the 5th edition, marking five uninterrupted years of administering the Prize,” said Ibrahim Oredola, co-founder of the Atelewo Cultural Initiative. “To us, this is a great milestone, and we are proud of the good works we are doing to promote Yoruba literature. This Prize has grown to become a beacon of excellence in the Yoruba literary community, fostering a new generation of writers and thinkers.”
Oredola also expressed gratitude to their patrons and supporters who have been instrumental in the development of the prize over the years, specifically mentioning Prof. Adeleke Adeeko, Mr. Oladele Onile-ere, and Mr. Oye Olatoye. “Their unwavering support and dedication have been pivotal in sustaining and advancing the objectives of the Atelewo Prize for Yoruba Literature.”