- Nnimmo Bassey’s environmental activism
- Ecological themes in African literature
- Ken Saro-Wiwa’s literary legacy
At the inaugural Book Day hosted by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) on January 31, 2025, in Benin City, Nigeria, environmentalist and author Nnimmo Bassey emphasized the transformative power of literature in ecological advocacy. He highlighted how storytelling, poetry, and other cultural expressions serve as tools to educate, challenge injustices, and inspire action towards environmental sustainability.Bassey drew attention to the work of Ken Saro-Wiwa, a renowned Nigerian writer and environmental activist, noting that his literary contributions played a pivotal role in awakening the socio-ecological consciousness of the Ogoni people. Saro-Wiwa’s writings not only documented the struggles against environmental degradation but also galvanized collective action for justice.The event underscored the importance of integrating cultural practices into environmental movements, suggesting that literature can shape public imagination and foster resilience against ecological challenges. By engaging with the works of prominent African authors, communities can find both inspiration and strategies to confront environmental exploitation and advocate for sustainable futures.HOMEF’s Community and Culture Programme aims to leverage the arts to build environmental awareness and promote resistance to ecological harm. Through initiatives like Book Day, the foundation seeks to connect cultural expression with environmental activism, reinforcing the role of literature in the fight for ecological liberation.
