The Pan African Writers Association [PAWA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan- African_Writers_Association) is set to launch its United Kingdom chapter on Friday, 27 November, at 10 a.m. in London’s Society of Authors [Society of Authors](https://www.societyofauthors.org). The ceremony aims to rekindle the collaborative spirit first displayed at the 1962 African Writers Conference in Kampala.
Key details of the launch include:
- The venue is 24 Bedford Row, the headquarters of the Society of Authors.
- Support comes from the International Authors Forum, the Society of Authors itself, and real‑estate firm Daniel Ford.
- Dr Wale Okediran, PAWA’s secretary‑general, will preside over the event and introduce the executive council members.
- A quote from Okediran: “PAWA’s constitution made a provision for the inclusion of writers of African origin in the diaspora in the association’s membership, giving them a platform to relate with writers on the continent.”
PAWA was founded in Accra, Ghana, in 1989 to unite writers’ associations across Africa and its diaspora. Its core mission is to safeguard African literary heritage, champion freedom of expression, and foster cultural solidarity through workshops, education, and cross‑border collaboration.
The decision to open a UK chapter follows the earlier establishment of an American affiliate, Writers of African Descent (WAFORD), which has been active for three years. Okediran explained that the move reflects the growing number of African writers residing in Britain and Europe, a community he describes as larger and more established than its counterparts in the Americas and the Caribbean.
According to Okediran, the new chapter will operate under a constitutionally endorsed framework, with elected officials responsible for shaping its structure. These leaders will decide whether to create regional branches throughout the United Kingdom or to centralise activities from the London office.
While the initiative signals an expansion of PAWA’s reach, Okediran stressed that it does not diminish the organisation’s commitment to writers based in Africa. He noted that many African authors still confront complex challenges that require tailored solutions, and that the diaspora can offer valuable perspectives and resources.
The launch also addresses a long‑standing demand from diaspora writers for a formal platform to engage with peers on the continent. Okediran observed that, although many writers prefer independence, a collective body like PAWA can provide the networking and advocacy needed to amplify their voices.
Ultimately, the success of the UK chapter will hinge on the level of participation it attracts from African writers across Britain and Europe. If embraced, it could become a lasting hub that mirrors the collaborative energy of the historic Kampala conference, reinforcing the idea that African literature thrives when its creators gather, exchange ideas, and envision a shared future.