By Prisca Sam-Duru

Congolese born Fiston  Mwanza Mujila has won the 2015 Etisalat Prize for Literature for his book, titled ‘Tram 83.’

A panel of judges, led by Professor Ato Quayson adjudged Mwanza’s Tram 83 the winner of the prize for 2015 after beating two other authors; Penny Busetto ( The Story of Anna P as told by herself) and “What will People Say” by Rehana Rossouw.

According to Prof Quayson, out of 100 entries received which were pruned to 9 and finally 3, Tram 83 emerged winner.

He received a cash prize of 15,000 pounds.

On the Flash Fiction category, Kuti Ojuolape Modupe won for her story titled ‘Gone’.  She emerged winner out of over 1300 entries.

Announcing her winner, Chair of the judges Mr Toni Kani congratulated her for the feat. He also commended Etisalat Nigeria for the integrity it has shown over the years which is evident in the quality of books that have won the prestigious prize.

He said “out of over 1300 entries received in the Flash Fiction category, only 50 were selected. The entries all expressed our emotions and issues that affect us as a people.”

The Chief Executive Officer Etisalat Nigeria, Mr Matthew Wilsher in his opening remarks, said that the “Etisalat Prize for Literature bears out this years theme, Representing the Diversity of African Voices as something that is the beauty of it and a foundation for innovation which is something we truly believe in, something in our roots. Diversity is very true in literature while innovation is very important in literary world. The diversity in literature is key. It

is not about the cheque of 15,000 pounds but about recognizing writers and rewarding publishers.

At Etisalat we don’t just invest money but also invest time”

He thanked all those who entered the Prize adding that Etisalat is proud to be associated with what the three shortlisted authors have done.