Tony Okuyeme 
As QFest 2024 ends with pomp, ceremony
Arthur Gabriel Yak has emerged winner of the Quramo Writers’ Prize (QWP) 2024, for his manuscript, ‘Whispers of the Survival’.
Yak, a US-based South Sudanese writer and veterinary medical officer with the United States Department of Agriculture, defeated Chukwuma Jonathan (1st Runner-up), and Abiodun Selome Medemaku (2nd runner up), for their entries, ‘Rajah and Eva’ and ‘The Worst Nightmare’, respectively, to win the coveted prize.
The winner was announced on Sunday at a colourful and inspiring closing ceremony of the Quramo Festival of Words (QFest) 2024, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Also, in the QShorts Community film screening, Moses Ipadeola won the Top Short Film with ‘Ekun Iyawo’ and went home with N100,000; while Saheed Sunday won the Wordslam, and also went home with N100,000.
In his remarks, the Head Judge, QWP 2024, Dr. Eghosa Imasuen, who is an author and publisher, said that each manuscript was scrutinised against five key criteria: originality, narrative strength, coherence, language, and dramatic intensity, adding that “beyond these formal categories, we also considered a sixth and perhaps most important criterion—each manuscript’s overall impact on us as readers.”
According to him, “these works showcase the immense talent and creativity within contemporary African writing. From deeply personal narratives about familial bonds and betrayal to stories of survival against unimaginable odds, each piece carries a distinct voice that speaks to the core of the human experience.
The writers have displayed exceptional mastery of character development, emotional depth, and storytelling, making this year’s shortlist a collection brimming with promise. “Before we reveal our final verdict, I would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Quramo Writers’ Prize team, led by the visionary Mrs. Gbemi Shasore.
Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in making this journey possible. I also want to thank the editors and everyone who has supported this endeavour, nurturing the incredible literary talent we celebrate today.
“As we conclude this remarkable journey through the shortlisted manuscripts, I am deeply moved by the diversity and depth of the stories brought to life.” Each manuscript, Imasuen added, resonated with a unique authenticity and intensity that speaks to the future of African literature, noting that “these works, though in their early stages, hold the potential to become timeless, reflecting the resilience and richness of the human spirit.
“The talent we’ve seen ensures that the future of African storytelling is in capable hands. I eagerly await what these writers will create next. Ladies and gentlemen, before we announce the winner, I’d like to thank our esteemed panel of judges for their dedication and thoughtful analysis of each manuscript.
And now, it is my pleasure to invite Mrs. Gbemi Shasore, the CEO of Quramo Publishing, to announce the winning manuscript.” Presentations of QWP 2024 Winner and Runners-up, as well as winners Top Qshorts and Wordsmith respectively, were among the highlights of the grand finale of the five-day literary and culture feast.
Highlights of the event also include QConversation, which had the Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) Mr. Obi Asika, in conversation with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Olasupo Shasore.
In his remarks, renowned filmmaker, writer, television producer and the founder/executive producer of Zuri24 Media, Femi Odugbemi, fta, commended the Quramo team led by the convener Mrs. Gbemi Shasore for organising such a magnificent celebration of storytelling, creativity, and cultural exchange, noting that “the past few days have been nothing short of enlightening, and I’m sure you’ll agree that QFest has once again proven itself as a platform not only for showcasing exceptional talent but also for sparking meaningful conversations about the future.”
According to him, this year’s theme, “The Shifting – empowering voices… inspiring minds,” resonates deeply.
“It is a reflection of the times we are living in—a call to action, reminding us that we are in constant motion. As creatives, we are always shifting our perspectives, our understanding of the world, and the stories we choose to tell.
In these moments of change, we find opportunities to redefine our identities, challenge old paradigms, and contribute to the evolving narrative of Africa’s place in the world. “Beyond its power to entertain, storytelling has always been a profound tool for social change.
Stories have the ability to expose injustices, challenge systems of oppression, and inspire collective action. Through storytelling, we can give voice to the marginalized, highlight issues that need addressing, and spark dialogue that leads to reform.
In our continent, where we are continually seeking ways to empower communities and foster development, storytelling can be a catalyst for transformation.
“It is through our stories that we can inspire movements, influence mindsets, and build a more just and equitable society. Over these past few days, QFest has also reinforced the importance of storytelling as a tool for connection.
Stories transcend borders and break down barriers; they are the ultimate expression of our shared humanity. “Quramo’s vision for this festival was to create a space where African storytellers could come together, share their work, and amplify their voices.
Today, QFest has grown beyond a literary festival. It is a vital part of our cultural landscape—a celebration of African creativity across literature, film, music, and visual art.
“What makes QFest truly exciting for me is its commitment to nurturing emerging talent. The masterclasses and workshops are not merely about skill-building; they are investments in the future of African storytelling.
I have no doubt that many of the young people who participated will go on to create work that will inspire, challenge, and move us all.” He also noted that festivals like this play a crucial role in building ecosystems where creativity can thrive.
“They provide platforms for established artists and, perhaps more importantly, space for emerging voices to be heard. We are custodians of a rich storytelling tradition, but our responsibility goes beyond preserving the past—we must also shape the future.
“As African storytellers, we have a unique duty to tell our stories authentically. For too long, Africa’s narrative has been shaped by others, often in ways that are limited or misguided.
We must reclaim our narrative and be the ones to tell the stories of our triumphs, struggles, cultures, and dreams. In doing so, we offer the world a fuller picture of who we are.”
