The death of Africa's foremost novelist, Prof. Chinua Achebe, continues to resonate around the world. As Vanguard, yesterday, received a tribute from one of Africa's versatile writers, Kenya's Ngugi wa Thiong'o, a message from the BBC and a newsletter that South Africa remembers Chinua Achebe.
.
Ngugi, in his tribute, noted: "Achebe is synonymous with the Heinemann African Writers Series and African writing as a whole.... As the general editor of the Heinemann African Writers Series, he had a hand in the emergence of many other writers and their publication. As a person, he embodied wisdom that comes from a commitment to the middle way between extremes and, of course, courage in the face of personal tragedy!
.
"Achebe bestrides generations and geographies. Every country in Africa claims him as their own.
.
Some sayings in his novels are quoted frequently as proverbs that contain universal wisdom. His passing marks the beginning of the end of an epoch."
.
In South Africa, the late novelist was honoured in a ceremony, tagged memorial service in honour of Chinua Achebe. Achebe was honoured by the country's SABC at Auckland Park, South Africa.
.
The BBC, yesterday, had a special programme for Achebe, the fourth since Achebe died, while South Africa's Nadine Gordimer, Kenya's Binyavanga Wainaina and two Nigerians, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Chibundu Onuzo were the guest speakers.