An icon of the literary world was invited to the 28th edition of the International Publishing and Book Fair, this Friday, June 9, 2023, at the Ribat-Al Fath Hall, Wole Soyinka, the laureate of the Nobel Prize in 1986 who made history by being the first African author to receive this prestigious award.

However, his fame goes beyond this achievement, his lifelong commitment to the fight for freedom and justice made him an emblematic figure in Nigeria and a major voice in the international literary landscape.

A writer, a playwright and a poet, the voice of the voiceless, a man who uses his pen to denounce injustice and fight for freedom in his homeland Nigeria and far beyond in the whole continent.

Today, an homage was paid to this legendary man in the hall of Ribat al fath at the International Publishing Book Fair.

Literature enthusiasts, activists and intellectuals flocked to see the iconic writer Wole Soyinka, a gathering that deeply marks this 28^th edition of SEIL.

A Glimpse into the rich path of Wole Soyinka

Born on July 13, 1934, in Abeokuta, Wole Soyinka is a true treasure of literature, praised repeatedly for his exceptional contribution to art and literature.

Soyinka's diverse talents are expressed through a wide range of literary genres. As a playwright, he has captivated his audience through his thought-provoking plays, such as his anti-colonial tragedy "Death and the King's Horseman" (1975), one of his most acclaimed masterpieces. His autobiographical narratives, collections of poems and short stories, as well as his political and literary essays, witness his intellectual legacy.

In addition to his work as a novelist, Soyinka has also played an active role in the world of drama as he founded several theater troupes, including the “1960, Masks Drama Troupe," which contributed to the promotion of African theater and showcased new artistic voices.

Soyinka's social and political commitment has shaped his path, however, his journey has not been without hurdles. In 1967, he was imprisoned for two years for his support of the Biafra independence movement (a movement that supported Nigeria’s independence.).

Twenty-seven years later, he was forced into exile after being sentenced to death by the government of Sani Abacha. During his exile, Soyinka continued to fight for freedom of expression and human rights, actively involved in the International Parliament of Writers and presiding the African Community of Culture.

Despite every challenge he has ever faced, Soyinka maintained his determination to use literature as a force for change.

Wole Soyinka's participation in the International Book Fair (SIEL) in Rabat is by and large a second-to-none chance for the Moroccan public and literature enthusiasts to meet this unprecedented talent and explore his creative universe.