Soyinka honored with Cuba’s Haydee Santamaria Medal
By Tosin Brown
Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, has been awarded a national honor by Cuba.
On Friday, August 23, Miguel Diaz-Canel, the President of Cuba, conferred the Haydee Santamaria Medal on Soyinka during a ceremony at the Casa de las Americas in Havana, Cuba.
In a statement, Diaz-Canel described Soyinka’s visit as “very significant,” noting that it represents “the visit of a brother who has always fought for just causes.” He also mentioned that awarding Soyinka the medal expresses Cuba’s deep respect and appreciation, emphasizing that Haydee Santamaria consistently highlighted the importance of culture in revolution.
“With you, we share ideas, dreams, and a commitment to human improvement,” Diaz-Canel added.
Jorge Fornet, Director of the Centre for Literary Research at Casa de las Americas, echoed these sentiments, stating that awarding Soyinka the Haydee Santamaria Medal—previously received by many prominent Latin American, Caribbean, and global intellectuals—“is an act of justice that honors us.”
The event also marked a dual celebration: Soyinka’s 90th birthday and the 60th anniversary of his first visit to Cuba.
In his remarks, Soyinka emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between Africa and Cuba, expressing a deep personal connection to the country.
“Our ties with Cuba are not limited to art and literature but extend to our shared struggles for liberation. I grew up listening to Cuban music back in the days of gramophones when there was no electricity. This honor has been a wonderful reminder that Cuba is also my home. It’s proof that Yoruba culture is vibrant here, which completes the spiritual connection for people like me,” Soyinka said.
The Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba also presented Soyinka with the Dulce María Loynaz International Prize.
Soyinka, who turned 90 on July 13, 2024, has been receiving several honors. Recently, the President of Nigeria renamed the famed National Arts Theatre in his honor. The iconic venue has been refurbished and is set to reopen soon.
