Chad, often overshadowed in media discussions, emerges as a literary territory through the voice of Nétonon Noël Ndjékéry, a prominent figure in French-speaking Chadian literature. In this interview, Ndjékéry sheds light on the linguistic landscape of Chad, his journey from mathematics to literature, life in Switzerland, and the perception of his work in Chad.
Linguistic Diversity in Chad
Ndjékéry paints a vibrant picture of Chad’s linguistic diversity, comprising 144 local languages alongside French and classical Arabic, the official languages. While French arrived with colonization, classical Arabic gained prominence through political imposition. Despite governmental neglect, local languages like Kanembu, Mundang, and Ngambay persist. However, literary productions in these languages remain scarce.
From Mathematics to Literature
Ndjékéry’s literary journey began early, influenced by familial storytelling and Chadian griots. He initially engaged in public writing, assisting illiterate individuals in communicating with French-speaking administrations. This experience, combined with his passion for storytelling, propelled him towards literature. Despite pursuing mathematics for practical reasons, his love for writing persisted, reflecting his commitment to bridging local experiences with universal themes.
Life in Switzerland and Perceptions in Chad
Living in Europe has provided Ndjékéry with a sanctuary for creative expression, contrasting with the communal life of Africa. However, he remains connected to Chad, grappling with the tensions of exile and the perspective it offers on Chadian realities. Despite limited recognition in his homeland, receiving the Grand National Literary Prize in 2017 signifies a hopeful future for his work’s impact on Chadian youth.
Exploring Chadian Literature
Ndjékéry highlights the emergence of Chadian literature, particularly in French, showcasing talents like Nimrod Bena, Nocky Djedanoum, Koulsy Lamko, and Mahamat-Saleh Haroun. He encourages exploration of their works to appreciate Chad’s literary contributions. Additionally, he notes significant literary events in Chad, such as the International Festival “Le Souffle de l’Harmattan” and the “book and reading month” celebration, signaling a growing appreciation for literature within the country.
In conclusion, Nétonon Noël Ndjékéry’s insights offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chadian literature, where diverse languages, personal journeys, and universal themes converge. As Chadian voices continue to resonate on the global stage, let us embrace the beauty of linguistic diversity, celebrate cultural richness, and explore the transformative power of storytelling from the heart of Africa.
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
