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Hammanskraal, South Africa – May 2026 — The National Writers’ Association of South Africa (NWASA) successfully concluded its Second Elective General Assembly, held from 23–24 May 2026, marking a significant milestone in the growth and international engagement of one of Africa’s most dynamic literary organizations.
The assembly brought together members, international partners, guests, and literary stalwarts for two days of deliberations, cultural celebration, policy discussions, and recognition of distinguished contributions to literature, scholarship, activism, and the arts.
Founded formally in 2021, NWASA has grown rapidly into a global literary movement with more than 750 members, primarily based in South Africa but also including writers from countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, and Iran.
Among the highlights of the gathering were messages of solidarity and support from literary organizations and prominent personalities worldwide, including former President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Kgalema Motlanthe.
In his message, President Motlanthe reflected on his relationship with NWASA through its founding President, the late Nana Walter Kefuoe Chakela, and extended his wishes for a successful assembly.
“I wish the NWASA a productive and insightful conference, and I look forward with keen interest to the resolutions and outcomes of your deliberations,” said President Motlanthe.
The assembly also featured a keynote address by acclaimed author and activist Dr. Zukiswa Wanner, alongside extensive discussions on literature, social responsibility, and international solidarity.
Declaration of the General Assembly
The General Assembly issued a declaration reaffirming:
- the enduring value of literary craft;
- the role of literature in preserving memory, building legacies, and nurturing social cohesion;
- the responsibility of writers in shaping socio-political consciousness.
The declaration also:
- expressed deep concern over the breakdown of multilateralism and the escalation of war and violations of international law by imperialist powers;
- voiced solidarity with the peoples of Palestine, Iran, Lebanon, Venezuela, Cuba, and communities worldwide facing repression and conflict;
- expressed strong concern over the resurgence of xenophobia in South Africa.
Newly Elected National Executive Committee
The assembly endorsed amendments to the NWASA constitution and elected a new National Executive Committee:
- President: Molaodi wa Sekake
- Deputy President: Lukhanyo Mtshingana
- Secretary-General: Dr. Lebogang Lance Nawa
- Deputy Secretary-General: Koketso Marishane
- Treasurer: Lebogang Ngwatle
Members:
- Dr. Barry Gilder
- Kingdom Moshounyane
- Patric Tariq Mellet
- Dr. Osedebamen Oamen
- Dr. Cornelia Smith Fick
- Dr. Thabang Chiloane
Prestigious Awards Presented
One of the major highlights of the opening evening was the presentation of a wide range of awards honoring literary excellence and cultural contribution.
President’s Choice Award
- Professor Keith Gottschalk
Grand Patron of the Arts Award
- Dr. Mothobi Mutloatse
- Professor Pitika Ntuli
- Lefifi Tladi
- Elinor Sisulu
- Sol Rachilo
Lifetime Achievement Award
- Dr. Athol Williams
- Patric Tariq Mellet
- Dr. Mongane Wally Serote
Rising Star Award
- Hallelujah Khumalo, the 10-year-old author who published her first book at the age of five.
Friends of NWASA International Awards
The Assembly also celebrated the conferring of the prestigious “Friends of NWASA” Award on several international literary figures and partners:
- Jidi Majia — Chinese Ethnic Writers Association (CEWA)
- Dazra Novak — Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC)
- Murad Al-Sudani — General Union of Palestinian Writers (GUPW)
- Vadim Terekhin — BRICS Writers Association
- Dr. Zukiswa Wanner — novelist and activist
- Shad Chikoti — Malawi Writers Union (MWU)
- Marcos Freitas — Academia de Letras do Brasil (ALB)
- Prof. Prithviraj Taur — Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, India
- Prof. Zhu Zhenwu — Centre of Comparative Literature and World Literature, Shanghai Normal University
NWASA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening literary exchange, advancing social justice through literature, and building international solidarity among writers and cultural workers across the world.
Issued by:
Dr. Lebogang Lance Nawa
Secretary-General
National Writers’ Association of South Africa (NWASA)
Contact:
338C Marokolong, Hammanskraal, 0400
Tel: +27 (0)64 615 7918
Email: nwasa.info@gmail.com
Website: http://www.nwasa.org.za
