The Freedom Park in Lagos, Nigeria was the venue that Nigerian writers celebrated Kenyan writer Binyavanga Wainaina on Saturday afternoon. Binyavanga “Binj” Wainaina the Kenyan writer loved by many is very unwell and needs very expensive medical care. A call out was made recently both in Kenya and Nigeria and those in the latter kept their word and went to support their East African brother. There were readings of work which has been done by The Binj including “One day I will write about this place.” There were also special articles on sale like a special edition of Americanah with drawings by Victor Ehikhamenor as well as T-shirts from the same artist /writer. Many spoke highly of the East African who left for Bangalore, India yesterday for his treatment. Muhtar Bakare of Farafina said, “Binyavanga has supported so many young Nigerian writers.” Poet Efe Paul Azino said, “We want him back, talking, writing, laughing, loving, and binging.” Kolade Arogundade who lives in Cape Town, South Africa shared stories about Binyavanga at who is called Binji in that the mother city. “We love you Binji and we need you back!” he proclaimed. Also at the event were Lola Shoneyin, Eghosa Imasuen and many other players in the Nigerian literature establishment. Images courtesy of the team at Ake Festival
special edition of Americanah with drawings by @victorsozaboy auctioned at #Naija4Binyavanga A video posted by Ake Arts and Book Festival (@akefestival) on
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