Follow Us on Google
… As Chimamanda shops for new sponsor
Stories by HENRY AKUBUIRO
The annual Farafina Trust Writing Workshop facilitated by the novelist, Chimamanda Adichie, won’t be holding this year as expected, following the withdrawal of the sponsor, Nigerian Brewery.
In a release by Adichie, the author of Americanah, among other works of fiction, said, “I am sorry to announce that the Farafina Trust Writing Workshop will be unable to hold this year, which would have been its tenth year. Our sponsor, Nigerian Breweries PLC (NB PLC), abruptly withdrew their sponsorship due to a need to streamline their expenditure.”
She thanked the company for having a half-decade relationship with the workshop and encouraging the development of literary talents in Nigeria and Africa. “In the years since NB PLC’s involvement, many alumni have gone on to confirm the promise they showed at the workshop,” she said.
Despite the latest development, Adichie said she was determined to keep training budding writers as she shopped for new a new sponsor for the workshop, which would have been in its eleventh year this year. She promised to return next year.
She said, “My commitment to the growth of our voices has not wavered. Nor has the commitment of those who have worked to make this decade-long endeavour the success that it has been. We will take this time off to establish a new organisation and structure that will provide a more stable foundation for the workshop and other initiatives.
“From the initial reaction of potential sponsors and partners, we are optimistic about the future. My thanks and best wishes to all those who have made enquiries about applying for this year’s workshop. The workshop will be back next year.”
