On Friday, October 30, 2026, Chadian writer Nétonon Noël Ndjékéry was awarded the 18th edition of the Prix Ivoire for African literature in French. His novel, "La Fabrique du merveilleux", published by Swiss publisher Hélice Hélas, earned him this prestigious distinction. This achievement highlights Ndjékéry's literary career and shines a spotlight on Chadian literature within the African Francophone community.
Ndjékéry's novel was one of five finalists selected by the Ivorian association Akwaba Culture. The other finalists included "Espoir" by Cameroonian Djaïli Amadou Amal, "Né sur des pissenlits" by Congolese Jocelyn Danga, "Yaay !" by Senegalese Célia Sanchez, and "Ceux qui parlent fort" by Ivorian Ephrem Youkpo. These titles were chosen from 46 submissions representing 13 African countries in September.
The jury, presided over by writer and playwright Werewere-Liking, chose Ndjékéry's novel for its thought-provoking themes. Set in the imaginary principality of Lara, "La Fabrique du merveilleux" explores mechanisms of domination, power confiscation, and aspirations to freedom. The story also examines the role of dreams in building a society free from tyranny.
Born in 1956 in Moundou, southern Chad, Ndjékéry initially taught mathematics in his home country before moving to Switzerland, where he worked in IT. Since April 2021, he has dedicated himself full-time to writing. His literary career includes several publications, such as "Sang de kola" (1999), "Chroniques tchadiennes" (2008), "Mosso" (2011), and "Au petit bonheur la brousse" (2019).
Ndjékéry has received numerous accolades for his work. In 2017, he was awarded the Grand Prix littéraire national du Tchad for his overall body of work. His novel "Il n’y a pas d’arc-en-ciel au Paradis" earned him the Grand Prix littéraire d’Afrique noire and the Prix Hors Concours in 2022. He also won the Prix Lettres frontière in 2023.
The Prix Ivoire, established by Akwaba Culture in 2008, is a literary distinction that comes with a reward of 3,000 euros. This latest recognition adds a significant honor to Ndjékéry's list of achievements and offers new visibility to Chadian literature. The award solidifies his position as a prominent figure in African Francophone literature.
Ndjékéry's win with "La Fabrique du merveilleux" demonstrates the growing international recognition of Chadian authors. His work contributes to the rich literary landscape of Africa, offering unique perspectives on universal themes. As he continues to write and publish, Ndjékéry's influence on African literature is likely to endure.
Key points
- Nétonon Noël Ndjékéry won the 2026 Prix Ivoire for his novel "La Fabrique du merveilleux".
- The novel explores themes of domination, power, and freedom in an imaginary African setting.
- This award adds to Ndjékéry's growing list of literary honors and highlights Chadian literature.
