Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Phillippa Yaa de Villiers
Published on 2024-04-10 06:00:54
Daughters of Africa is a groundbreaking anthology of writing by women of African descent that spans from ancient Egypt to the present day. The editor, Margaret Busby, is a Ghanaian pioneer in the publishing industry who received a copy of the 1992 edition as a gift and attributes it to sparking her own career as a writer.
Seventeen years later, Busby curated New Daughters of Africa, which showcases some of Africa’s most captivating voices in poetry, storytelling, and rhetoric. The anthology reflects on a world that is beginning to open its doors to diverse voices and perspectives.
At the Johannesburg Festival of Women Writers, Busby delivered a keynote address on “intergenerational conversations”, emphasizing the importance of dialogue between different generations of women writers. The festival, initiated by Elinor Sisulu, Barbara Masekela, and other writers, provided a platform for these discussions at the University of Johannesburg.
Busby’s journey as a publisher began in the 1960s when she co-founded Allison & Busby with a colleague after completing her degree in literature. Her commitment to showcasing African-authored titles eventually led her to compile the first Daughters of Africa anthology.
Through her curation of the anthology, Busby aimed to give voice to lesser-known female writers and challenge existing notions of creativity. Her dedication to collecting and showcasing literary treasures reflects her passion for showcasing diverse narratives.
The diverse selection of writers in both volumes of Daughters of Africa highlights Busby’s commitment to representing a wide range of voices and perspectives. The anthology serves as a testament to the rich heritage of African women writers and the importance of supporting and uplifting each other.
The contributions from the New Daughters of Africa contributors allowed the establishment of the Margaret Busby New Daughters of Africa Award, which supports black African women pursuing a master’s degree at London University’s School of Oriental and African Studies. The success stories of past recipients, such as Idza Luhumyo, demonstrate the impact of this initiative in empowering African women writers.
Busby’s keynote address at the Time of the Writer conference emphasized the importance of fostering connections and celebrating creativity across generations. Her call for continued engagement and support within the literary community reflects her commitment to building a strong legacy for future generations of women writers.
In conclusion, Daughters of Africa stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the significant contributions of women of African descent to the literary world. By curating these anthologies, Busby has created a platform for diverse voices to be heard and celebrated, inspiring future generations of writers to continue pushing boundaries and sharing their stories.
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