Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o will be celebrated at the “Translating Ngũgĩ | Celebration of the Life and Work of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o” conference at UC Irvine, USA, from November 13 – 14, 2025.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was a renowned Kenyan novelist, playwright, essayist, and academic. He was a leading voice in African literature, known for his political commentary, his focus on collective African identity, and his influential work as a language activist, advocating for the use of African languages in writing. His work has been translated into over 30 languages and is widely celebrated for its political and cultural significance. He passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
University of California, Irvine, where he was a distinguished professor, is honouring the late legend with the conference, “Translating Ngũgĩ | Celebration of the Life and Work of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o.” It will feature tributes from scholars, writers, and colleagues who knew and were influenced by Ngũgĩ and academic presentations exploring his literary and theoretical contributions. There will also be speaker sessions featuring experts on African literature, translation studies, and postcolonial thought.
Presentations will be made by Simon Gikandi, James Ogude, Ndirangu Wachanga, Wanjiku wa Ngũgĩ, Mumbi wa Ngũgĩ, Ndũcũ wa Ngũgĩ, Nyambura Sallinen, Wangũi wa Goro, Angela Davis, Carla Wilson, Paa Kwesi-Heto, Akosua Adomako Ampofo, Chimee Adịọha, Baba Badji, Jaye Austin Williams, Cilas Kemedjio, Anindo Marshall, Kwame Rĩgĩĩ, Nii Armah Sowah, Sela Adjei, Victor Nani Agbeli, Mumbi Ngũgĩ, Fred Moten, Idza Luhumyo, Bwesigye Bwa-Mwesigire, Rah Hite, Tyrus Miller, Cecelia Lynch, S. Ama Wray, Munyao Kilolo, Glaydah Namukasa, among others.
If you wish to take part, there is a virtual option. Check out the schedule and register for the event.
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