Citation: Maimota, A.S. (2026). Digital Dawn in Hausa Literature: The Shift from Print to Online Novels and Exploration of Digital Authors on BBC Hausa Hikayata Competition (2016-2023). Tasambo Journal of Language, Literature, and Culture, 5(2), 62-71. www.doi.org/10.36349/tjllc.2026.v05i02.008.
DIGITAL DAWN IN
HAUSA LITERATURE: THE SHIFT FROM PRINT TO ONLINE NOVELS AND EXPLORATION OF
DIGITAL AUTHORS ON BBC HAUSA HIKAYATA COMPETITION (2016-2023)
By
Aishatu Shehu Maimota
Northwest University, Kano
maimotaaisha@gmail.com
aishatusm@nwu.edu.ng
2348066054705
Abstract
This study
examines the significant impact of the digital revolution on Hausa literature,
with particular attention to the shift from traditional print novels to
digitally mediated literary production. Using a mixed-methods approach that
integrates qualitative and quantitative data, the research examines the decline
in the production and sales of printed Hausa novels and identifies the key
factors behind this trend. The findings show that digital technologies have
expanded access to Hausa literary texts, increased thematic and stylistic
diversity, and stimulated new modes of literary expression, including online
novels, blogs, and other web-based narratives. Notably, the BBC Hausa Hikayata
competition has played a crucial role in promoting digital literary creativity
and reader engagement, nurturing a new generation of writers whose works
reflect the social, cultural, and ideological complexities of contemporary
Hausa society. Situated within Medium Theory, the study demonstrates how the
transition from print to digital media reshapes literary forms, genres, and
authorship practices. By foregrounding the digital transformation of Hausa
literature, this research contributes to broader debates on digital change in
African literature and offers insights into the future trajectory of Hausa
literary expression.
Keywords: Printed
Hausa Fiction, Digital Literature, Online Novels, Hikayata Competition, Digital
Revolution
Introduction
The advent of digital technologies has brought about a
profound impact on various aspects of human life, transforming the way we live,
work, and interact with one another. One area that has undergone significant
transformation is literature. The rise of digital platforms has revolutionized
the way literary works are created, disseminated, and consumed.
The Hausa literary landscape, traditionally dominated by
print-based novels, is undergoing a significant transformation. For decades,
Hausa literature has been characterized by a strong tradition of print-based
publishing, with authors and publishers relying on physical books to reach
their audience. However, as digital technologies become increasingly popular,
this landscape is shifting. The proliferation of online platforms, social
media, and digital publishing tools has enabled authors to reach a wider audience,
experiment with new forms of storytelling, and connect with readers in
innovative ways.
This study examines the shift from print to online novels in
Hausa literature, a trend redefining how literary works are created, consumed,
and interacted with. The rise of online novels as a popular form of literary
expression has created new opportunities for authors to showcase their work,
connect with readers, and build a community around their writing. Furthermore,
digital literary competitions, such as the Hikayata competition, have provided
platforms for authors to showcase their work and have fostered a new generation
of digital authors. This study aims to investigate the impact of digital
technologies on Hausa literature, with a particular focus on the shift from
print to online novels and the emergence of the Hikayata competition as a
catalyst for digital literary innovation. By exploring this phenomenon, the
study seeks to contribute to our understanding of the changing landscape of
Hausa literature and the role of digital technologies in shaping the future of
literary expression.
The Development of
Published Hausa Prose Fiction
The Hausa fiction genre, comprising novels and short
stories, was introduced by British colonialists after the conquest of the
Sokoto caliphate. They aimed to provide reading materials for new learners of
Hausa Boko (Adamu, 2018). One notable colonial officer, Rupert M. East, played
a significant role in introducing creative fiction and drama in written form to
the Hausa people. According to various scholars (Yahaya, 1988; Mukhtar, 2004;
Malumfashi, 2006; Adamu, 2010; Sani & Umar 2018; Adamu, 2021), East facilitated
the first writing competition, which produced renowned Hausa novelists,
including Abubakar Imam, whose novel Ruwan
Bagaja (The Water of Cure) won first place. Other notable works include Shaihu Umar by Sir Alhaji Abubakar
Tafawa Balewa, Idon Matambayi by
Malam Muhammadu Gwarzo, Ganɗoki by Muhammadu
Bello Kagara, and Jiki Magayi by John
Tafida Ummaru and R.M. East.
Adamu (2010) grouped Hausa prose fiction into generations.
According to him, early Hausa novels reflected the societal state and dominant
social framework of the time, showcasing a blend of Hausa-Arabic-Islamic
cultures. The themes, plots, characterization, and styles were substantial and
relevant to the context. Apart from the five notable novels, Dr. R.M. East
encouraged the translation of Arabian and Asian works into Hausa. One notable
example is the Arabic book Alful Laila wa
Laila, translated as Dare Dubu Da
Daya (One Thousand and One Nights). Abubakar Imam's Magana Jari Ce (1937) is another significant work, comprising three
volumes of storytelling that reiterate the saga tales of kings and chiefs. The
second generation continued the same structure as the first, with novels like Tauraruwa Mai Wutsiya and Nagari Na Kowa. The third
generation (1980s) marked a turning point with modern themes, styles, and
characters. Notable works include Turmin
Danya by Sulaiman Ibrahim Katsina, Mallakin Zuciyata by
Sulaiman Ibrahim Katsina. So Aljannar Duniya by Hafsatu Abdulwahid, who became
the first female Hausa novelist. Fourth generation (1984-2010) was
characterized by romantic novels, often written by women, with a focus on
quantity over quality. These generation novels were named by Malumfashi (1994)
as "Adabin Kasuwar Kano" (Kano Market Literature). Mukhtar (2004) has
documented notable authors and works, including Bilkisu Salisu Ahmad Funtua,
who wrote over 20 novels in four years, and Zuwaira Isa, who started writing at
a young age. Other notable works include Rabin
Raina (1984) by Talatu Wada Ahmed, Soyayya
Gamon Jini (1986) by Ibrahim Hamza Abdullahi, and Budurwar Zuciya (1987) by Balaraba Ramat Yakubu. For further
details on "Adabin Kasuwar Kano" novels, refer to Mukhtar (2004).
Maimota (2021) revealed that prominent authors and marketers
in Kano, a hub for Hausa novel production and marketing (known as the Kano
market literature), Ado Ahmad Gidan Dabino, Kabir Yusuf Anka, Bilkisu Yusuf
Ali, Sadiya Garba Yakasai, Maharazu Mai Littattafai, and Adamu Yusif Indabo,
testified that the sales and publication of printed novels have declined due to
the availability of internet facilities that have led to e-reading. Maharazu,
who typically used to purchase scripts from popular writers like Maryam Kabir
Mashi, Bilkisu Funtua, and others, noted that he used to produce over 5,000
copies and sell them in less than two weeks. Similarly, Ado Gidan Dabino stated
that he continues to write and produce novels because of his passion for the
craft. Furthermore, many bookshops selling Hausa novels along Sabon Titin
Mandawari, Umma Bayero, ‘Yankura, and Sabon Gari have closed
down; only a few remain open, and they have diversified their products to
include items like fabrics, rather than relying solely on book sales.
Hausa Digital
Novels
The digital narratives are a genre of Hausa
fiction published on web pages. The novels are confined within mobile phones,
called Android and smartphones (Maimota, 2021, 2023, and 2024). Web fiction is a written work of literature available
primarily or solely on the internet. They are released on the internet in
installments or chapters as they are finished, although published compilations
and anthologies are not known https://en.m.wikipedia.org Recent studies have explored the intersection of African
literature and digital media. The studies by Adenekan (2021) and Maimota (2021)
provide valuable insights into the impact of digital media in African literary
practices. Adenekan (2021) investigates the relationship between African
literatures and new media, arguing that writers are increasingly publishing
their work online due to the emergence of online communities and the growing
number of Africans engaging with the internet in their daily lives. This shift
has transformed the way African literature is produced, consumed, and
disseminated. Yakasai (2020) investigates
the growing dominance of writing and the preservation of language and culture
in Hausa society through digital facilities.
In a comparative analysis of some Hausa printed novels and
online or digital novels, Maimota (2021) reveals that the rise of e-reading has
significantly impacted the sale and production of Hausa fiction books. Many
authors have discontinued book writing due to the preference for online
reading, particularly among the youth who are both the primary readers and
marketers of the novels. Maimota's study identified 26 novels published between
2010 and 2021, with 12 of them attributed to a single author, Sumayya Abdulkadir
(also known as Takori). Sumayya's prolific output during this period is
notable, with her books often spanning 3-4 volumes. Sumayya's testimony
suggests that novel publication is no longer a profitable venture, and she
continues to write out of passion and a desire to preserve her work. Her
notable novels include; Alƙawari Bayan Rai, (2010), Yakanah (2011), Amanita (2012), Zuciyar Mutum (2013), Babban Goro (2014), Rayuwar
Rayhana (2015), Kwana Sittin (2017),
Sanadin Kenan (2018), Auren Kwangila (2019), Aalima (2020) and Kulsum (2021).
Furthermore, Maimota (2023) testified that Sumayya has published additional
novels between 2022 and 2023, such as Na
Huce, Sakacin Waye?, and 'Yar Najeriya.
Online Hausa novels came into existence in 2013 with a novel
called Ke Ce Gudalliya and Sirri Ne by Benaxir Omar. From 2013 to
date, there are more than 40,000 online novels with different authors, most of
whom have no prior writing experience; they just started writing online. In an
interview with some digital narrators, Batul Mamman, Aisha Muhd (Ayusher),
Hassana Suleiman (Sanah), Safiyya Jibril (Oum Abdul), Nafisa Ja’afar (Feenat) Maryam Alƙali (Mamu),
Hassana Labaran, Amira Souley, Maryam Muhammad Sani, Kamal Muhd (Dambu), and
others, prove that they started authoring stories through internet channels. Online
Hausa novels have been disseminated through authors' pages like blogs, Wattpad,
WordPress, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram, or read directly from other
internet sources like Google and Chrome. Most of the time, the authors post the
stories to WhatsApp groups because most of them have such groups with their
fans who always give them support and courage. Therefore, online Hausa novels
can be read on readers' smartphones connected to the internet through the
author’s pages. Most of these digital narratives were revealed in installments
or episodes. (Maimota, 2021)
Some Digital Hausa
Authors and Their Pages
As a researcher, I have had the opportunity to connect with
digital Hausa authors, learning about their experiences and perspectives on the
digital literary landscape. My engagement with online Hausa novels has provided
valuable insights into how digital platforms are redefining literary expression
and community engagement. More than 70 percent of online Hausa novel authors
are women and youth between the ages of 23 and 40 years. Among the authors are:
·
Benaxir
Omar, www.sajenovelss@mywapblog.com. Among her novels are: Ke
Ce Gudalliya (2013), Sirri Ne
(2013), Dangin Miji (2014), Budurcina 'Yancina (2015) Babu Ruwan Ƙwai da Aski
(2016), Ciwon Idanu (2016) and Abin Tsoro Kura a Rumbu (2017).
·
Khaleesat
Hydar, her blog is https://m.facebook.com>permalink.com. Her novels include Khaleesat
(2015), Inteesar (2015), Ikraam (2016), Dr. Khaleel (2016), and Capt. Ahmad
Junaid (2017).
·
Maryam
Alƙali known as Mamu, www.mrsjabo.wordpress.com. Her novels include: Wa
Zan Aura. (2014), Surikar Zamani (2015), Tafiya Mai Nisa (2015), Mata Uku
Gobara (2016), Taɓarya Mai Baki Biyu (2016) and Bakin Ganga
(2017).
·
Hassana
Sulaiman Isma'il, known as Sanah Matazu, https://www.sanahsulaiman.wattpad.com/story. Her novels include: Yanar
Gizo (2014), Sanadin Bodin (2014), Matar Saddik (2014), 'Yar Mafiya (2015),
'Yar Kurma (2015), Mahaifiya Ce (2015), Ƙiyayya Ce Ko Son
Zuciya (2016), Nadamar Rayuwata (2016), Idan Ka Daka Ta Bado (2016), Yarda Ce
Sila (2017), Rayuwar Najwa (2017), and Kaidinsu (2018).
·
Zainab
Idris Makawa, her books include Takari
(2017), Furen Juji (2018), Tarko (2018/19), Sarautar Mata (2019), Ƙanin Ajali
(2020/21), and Sarƙa….(2021).
·
Fatima
Bello Salim, known as Batul Mamman, http://batulmamman.blogspot.com. Among her novels are: Juwairiyya
(2015), Farar Haihuwa (2016), Rashin
Godiya (2016), Al’adun Wasu (2017),
Abin Da Ake Gudu (2017), Kashe Fitila (2018), Gumin Halak (2018/19), Ku Dube Mu (2019), and Uwa-Uwa Ce (2020/2021)
·
Safiyya
Jibril, known as Ummou Abdul, www.soufjay.wordpress.com.
Among her novels are: Kururuwan Shaiɗan (2016), Ƙarninmu (2016), and Zina Iyaye A Yi Hattara (2017).
·
Rufaida
Umar www.rufaidaomar.com. Her
novels include: Mahaifiya, Bazan Barki
ba, Mijin Mace Ɗaya, Rayuwa ce,
Rudin Shaidandan, Rayuwar Hamida, Mata Iyayenmu,
Ƙarfen Ƙafa, and Firgici
·
Fiddausi
Sodangi www.ffiddausi.wordpress.com. Her novels include Har
A Zuciya (2016) and Kai Ne Gatana (2017).
·
Ayusher
Muhammad www.ayushermohd.blogspot.com. She authored:
Jalaluddeen (2016), Zuciya Kowa da Irin
Tasa (2016/17), Ni da Prince (2017), Kainuwa… (2017/18), Jalila (2018), and
A Gidana (2019/2020)
·
Nafisa Bashir Tanko (Feenat)
@feenatjafarwww.wattpad.story, her stories
include: Sakeena, Dan Yau, Ƙiyayya, Bariki Iyawa, Ƙaddara Ce. Juya Matan Uba e.t.c (were authored between
2014 to 2018 2014).
·
Safiya Abdullahi Musa Huguma www.safiyahugumawattpad.com among her novels
are: Abadan, Kundin Ƙaddarata and Hangen Dala.
·
Khadija Candy www.khadijacandystories.com Her novels include: Khadijatu, Zaki, Zaɓin Rai, and Mairo.
·
Hafsat Ummu Hanan www.ummuhanan.com, her stories
include: Kundin Haske. Nida Ya saiyadin and Dr. Saif.
BBC Hausa Hikayata
Competition
The term 'Hikayata' comes from the Arabic word 'Hikaya',
which means short fictional stories of Arab origin. Therefore, 'Hikayata' can
be named in English as 'My Story'.
The BBC Hausa Short Story Writing Competition, known as
Hikayata, has emerged as a pivotal platform for women's empowerment and the
preservation of Hausa literature since its inception in 2016.This annual
contest, open to women writing in Hausa, provides a unique opportunity for
female writers to share their experiences, talents, and perspectives through
fiction. By focusing on themes relevant to the region, such as domestic
violence, kidnapping, and career choices, Hikayata has not only fostered a
sense of community among women writers but also contributed significantly to
the advancement of women's voices in Hausa society.
The competition's purpose is multifaceted, aiming to
encourage women to share their stories and provide a stage for their voices and
talents. Eligibility is broadly defined, welcoming women writers from diverse
backgrounds and nationalities who write in Hausa. This inclusive approach
has enabled a wide range of participants to engage with the
competition, showcasing the richness and diversity of Hausa literature.
Hikayata's impact extends beyond the literary realm, empowering female writers
and inspiring conversations on pressing social issues. The competition has
received hundreds of entries from around the world, reflecting its growing
popularity and significance. Over time, the themes explored in the stories have
evolved, demonstrating an increased awareness among women writers of the social
and political challenges they faced.
According to Bugaje (2023), the significance of Hikayata
lies in its ability to empower female writers, preserve the Hausa language and
literary tradition, and stir conversations about critical issues affecting
women. By providing a platform for women's voices, the competition has
contributed to a shift in the literary landscape, inspiring a new generation of
writers and promoting the importance of the Hausa language and culture.
A panel of judges, comprising esteemed academicians and
renowned Hausa literary experts, assesses the submissions based on criteria
established by the BBC Hikayata authority. The judging panel typically includes
prominent novelists, and its composition changes annually to ensure a fresh
perspective. The BBC awards cash prizes to the winners. The first-place winner
receives $2,000, the second-place winner receives $1,500, and the third-place
winner receives $1,000. Additionally, the next 12 stories that follow the top
three winning stories are awarded certificates (BBC Hausa Page). Through my
consistent engagement with BBC Hausa and enthusiasm for Hikayata stories since
the competition began, serving as the chair of judges for the 2022 BBC Hausa
Hikayata has given me valuable insights into the organization's efforts to
empower women writers and preserve cultural heritage. Its impact is evident in
the powerful stories shared through the competition, which reflect the pressing
realities of life for women in the region. As the competition continues to
evolve, it is likely to remain a significant force in shaping the literary
landscape of Hausa society.
Authors of BBC
Hausa Hikayata Competition
The BBC Hausa Short Story Writing Competition, known as
Hikayata, has emerged as a significant platform for digital authors,
particularly women, to showcase their writing talents and share their
perspectives on issues affecting Hausa society. Since its inception in 2016, the
competition has provided opportunities for young women to express themselves
and explore themes relevant to their experiences. The competition's eligibility
criteria, which require participants to be women aged 18-35 and submit stories between
1,000 and 1,500 words in length, written in Hausa, have helped to create a
targeted and inclusive environment.
A notable shift has occurred in the competition's winners
and awardees over the years. From 2020 to 2024, digital authors have dominated
the competition, winning top prizes and receiving certificates for outstanding
stories. This trend highlights the growing influence of digital platforms in
Hausa literature and the increasing prominence of digital authors. The
competition's thematic flexibility is another key aspect, allowing participants
to explore a wide range of topics relevant to women in Hausa society. These
themes include challenges faced by women, gender-based violence, poverty,
insecurity, and unemployment. By giving participants the freedom to choose
their own themes, the competition encourages a diverse range of perspectives
and experiences.
The judging process is rigorous and impartial, with a panel
of independent judges comprising academics with expertise in Hausa prose
fiction analysis. These literary critics bring a deep understanding of the
Hausa language and cultural context, enabling them to assess the entries based
on their literary merit and relevance to the themes explored.
BBC Hausa Hikayata
2016 Winning Stories and Authors
Sansanin Gudun
Hijira (Refugee Camp) by Aisha Sabitu
(published Author)
Sai Yaushe? (Till When?) by Amina Hassan Abdussalam (Published Author)
In da Rai (As Long as we Breath….) by Amina Gambo. (Published Author)
The first story,
“Sansanin ‘Yan Gudun Hijira”,
focuses on the challenges refugees faced, such as poverty, hunger, and lack of
access to necessities like healthcare and education. Despite the difficulties,
many refugees find ways to cope, support each other, and hold onto hope for a
better future. The story that came second is “Sai Yaushe? exposed to sexual violence that has become rampant in
society, the author expressed her feelings as to when it should end. The third
story is In da Rai, which explores
the plight of a young girl who faced violence at the hands of her stepmother,
while also striving to pursue her ambition of acquiring western education. The
story reveals that ‘In da Rai .. da Rabo’
meaning ‘As long as we Breath There is Hope’.
BBC Hausa Hikayata
2017 Winning Stories and Authors
Bai Kai Zuci Ba (Not Sincere) by
Maimuna Idris Beli (Published Author)
Zawarcina (My Widowhood) Bilkisu Sani Makaranta (Published Author)
Sana’a Sa’a (Self-Reliance is Key) by Habiba Abubakar and Hindatu
Sama’ila (Published Authors)
The first story, Bai
Kai Zuci Ba, skillfully explores the theme through a captivating technique
that draws the reader into a dream world. In this narrative, the protagonist’s
ghost emerges from her grave, observing how her friend, whom she has
manipulated her husband into marrying while she was in her sick bed with no
hope of survival, treats her children. The friend expected to care for them,
but instead she turned to maltreating them. This story reveals that even the
closest of female relationships can be fraught with rivalry, exposing the
darker aspect of human nature. The second story, Zawarcina (My Widowhood) that portrays the regret of a widow who
experienced emotional turmoil, such as shouldering excessive household
responsibilities and emotional demands from young children who seek her love
and attention. The third story, Sana’a
Sa’a, emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship, regardless of its
scale, and showcases how the protagonist empowers female beggars to become
self-reliant through business opportunities, enabling them to break free from
the cycle of begging.
BBC Hausa Hikayata
2018 Winning Stories and Authors
‘Ya Mace (Girl Child) by Safiyya Jibrin (Digital Author)
Sunanmu Ɗaya (We are the Same)
by Sakina Lawan (Digital Author)
Zaina (person name) by Bilkisu Muhammad Abubakar (Published
Author)
The story that emerged winner ‘Ya Mace, expressed the kind of pressure a lady may encounter when
she passes her marital age. The second story, Sunanmu Ɗaya sheds light on how women are often perceived similarly by
men, regardless of their physical beauty. The main character, leveraging her
beauty to capture the heart of a womanizer who mistreats his wife, agrees to
marry him on the condition that he divorces his wife. However, she soon
discovers that her beauty doesn't inspire change in him, and he treats her just
as poorly as he did to his former wife. The third story is a poignant tale of
Zaina, who recounts the heart-wrenching story of losing her loving husband when
he travelled to his hometown in Maiduguri to visit his parents. The Boko Haram
insurgency led to his disappearance, and no news or information about his
whereabouts or body was ever found. After his disappearance, Zaina returned to
her in-laws and stayed with them for six years under their care. During this
time, they urged her to consider remarrying, despite her initial reluctance due
to a promise she and her late husband had made to each other. Under pressure
from her in-laws, she eventually married her husband's friend, who took good
care of her and her children. However, fate had other plans, and her former
husband returned a few months after her remarriage.
Theme of BBC Hausa
Hikayata 2019 Winning Stories and the Authors
Maraici (Orphanhood) by Safiya Ahmad Kaduna (Authored Maraici only)
Ba a yi Komai ba (Girl Child is Equal to Nothing) by Jamila Abdullahi Rijiyar
Lemo (Published Author)
A Juri Zuwa Rafi (It is a Matter of Time…) by Jamila Babayo (Published
Author)
Maraici, the story that emerges winner is a journey of a young orphan
girl who is adopted by a woman who promises to provide her with an education.
However, the woman's true intentions are revealed when she forces the girl into
a marriage with a wealthy man, where she becomes the second wife and faces
maltreatment at the hands of the first wife. When the marriage ends, the woman
callously sends her back to the orphanage. Despite this setback, the girl's
resilience, good character, and faith inspire one of the caregivers to support
her in pursuing her dreams. With newfound opportunities, she trains to become a
nurse and eventually finds happiness in marriage. The second story, Ba a yi Komai ba, is a poignant
expression of a mother's anguish in a society that devalues the birth of female
children. When she gives birth to her fourth daughter, her husband,
disheartened by the lack of a male heir, marries a second wife who subsequently
gives . birth to a son. From that moment on, he showers all his attention and
care on his son and his mother, neglecting his first wife and daughters. He
eventually divorces the mother and refuses to take responsibility for their
children, instead forcing them to work as street vendors. The mother's father
shows no compassion, abandoning her and the children to fend for themselves in
their father's household, where they face immense hardship. Tragically, one of
the daughters falls victim to rape, further exacerbating their suffering. The
third winning story is a powerful story of a mother's unwavering determination
to seek justice for her 5-year-old child, who was brutally raped by a known
individual. Despite the pleas from her husband, the child's stepfather, and her
family to keep the matter private and protect the child's image, the mother
courageously chose to take the perpetrator to court. With the support of human
rights organizations, she fought for her child's rights and sought to hold the
offender accountable for their heinous actions.
Theme of BBC Hausa
Hikayata 2020 Winning Stories and the Authors
Rai da Cuta (Sustaining Life with Illness) by Maryam Umar (Digital
Author)
Numfashin Siyasa (Political Echo) by Surayya Zakariyya Yahya (Authored
Numfashin Siyasa Only)
Farar Ƙafa (Bad Luck) by
Rufaida Umar (Digital Author)
The first story, Rai
da Cuta, revolves around a woman's struggle to navigate her husband's
COVID-19 diagnosis, which he contracted on a long journey. Due to his fear of
hospitals and the stigma surrounding COVID-19, he refuses to seek medical
attention, warning his wife not to disclose his condition or venture out,
threatening divorce if she does. Meanwhile, her father cautions her that if she
leaves her husband, she cannot return home. The wife is anxious about
potentially being pregnant and the risks of COVID-19 to her and her unborn
child. As she experiences symptoms, she suspects she may have contracted the
virus. Numfashin Siyasa, as the
second winner, showcases the transformative power of education for women,
despite initial resistance from the community. The protagonist faces fierce
opposition, including the brutal burning of her family home with her parents,
but she perseveres in her pursuit of becoming a political representative.
Ultimately, she achieves her goal and brings development to her village,
earning the community's pride and admiration. The third story, Farar Ƙafa, highlighted the Hausa superstition belief on ‘Mai Farar Ƙafa’, referring to any lady who, after her marriage, if
something bad happens to her husband, such a lady can encounter serious
challenges from society.
Theme of BBC Hausa
Hikayata 2021 Winning Stories and the Authors
Haƙƙina (My Right) by Aishatu Musa Dalil (Digital Author)
Butulci (Betrayal) by Nana Aicha Hamissou Abdoulaye (Digital Author)
Ramat (Ramat) by Zulaihat Alhassan (Digital Author)
The first story Haƙƙina expresses the
violence of a girl whose step-father brutally beat and raped, is
claiming her right. Unfortunately, the mother wants the issue not to be exposed
to maintain their good image. The second story Butulci revolves around a husband's betrayal of his pregnant wife's
trust, orchestrating her kidnapping for ransom to get his hands on her father's
wealth, the very reason he married her. Ramat
which is the third story, poignantly explores themes of sacrifice, justice,
and devotion. A Muslim police officer stands by her Christian housemaid,
seeking justice after discovering her son's heinous crime of rape through CCTV
footage. Despite her husband's disapproval, she pursues the case, leading to
her son's 15-year imprisonment and subsequent marital seperation.
Her actions are driven by empathy for the victim and a commitment to justice.
Theme of BBC Hausa
Hikayata 2022 Winning Stories and the Authors
Garar Biki (Wedding Gift) by Amira Souley Maraɗi (Digital Author)
Haihuwar Guzuma (Neither the Mother nor the Daughter) by Hassana Labaran Ɗanlarabawa (Digital Author)
Al’ummata (My Community) by Maryam Muhammad Sani (Digital Author)
Garar Biki that emerged as the winner, exposes a cultural
practice in marriage where the bride's parents are expected to present a
wedding gift to the groom and his family. Failure to do so can lead to marital
problems between the couple and their families. This is precisely what happens
in the story: the mother of the main character had experienced pressure due to
her inability to present the 'gara' (wedding gift) in her marriage, and she
vowed that her daughter would not face a similar situation. However, this
promise sets off a chain of problems for her daughter. In an attempt to secure
financial stability, the daughter engages in an affair with a guy who
eventually exposes their secret to her groom just a day after the marriage, and
the wedding gift is stolen. The story that emerges in the second position is Haihuwar Guzuma, which is a marriage
that crumbles over a conflict about their daughter's future. The mother wants
their daughter to marry a wealthy man from a reputable family, disregarding a
promise the father made to marry their daughter to a young man who has been
caring for her since childhood. The father warns that if they break his promise
and the daughter's marriage to the wealthy man fails, their marriage will end.
Unfortunately, the wealthy man abandons the daughter, leaving her pregnant and
destitute. The father keeps his word and asks the mother and daughter to leave,
marking the end of their marriage. The third story, Al’ummata, exposes the deceitful tactics of politicians who exploit
villagers' illiteracy during elections, making false promises that are
forgotten once they're elected. An educated lady, residing in the village,
cleverly uses her knowledge to hold them accountable. She broadcasts their
unfulfilled promises on the radio and social media, attributing them to the
politicians themselves. This tactic puts her in the politicians' crosshairs,
but her community rallies around her, recognizing her efforts to improve their
lives. Ultimately, they hail her as a heroine and urge her to represent them,
aware of her dedication to their betterment
Theme of BBC Hausa
Hikayata 2023 Winning Stories and the Authors
Rina a Kaba (It’s not over yet) by Aisha Adamu Hussaini (Digital Author)
Baƙin Kishi (As a
Result of Bitter Rivalry) by Aisha Abdullahi Yabo (Digital Author)
Tuwon Ƙasa (The Price of
Loyalty) by Aisha Abdullahi Jos (Digital Author)
The story that emerge overall winner is Rina a Kaba, which explores the consequences of using medications
to enhance female intimacy, as seen through the main character's experience.
She takes these medications to outdo her co-wife and gain her husband's favor,
initially becoming the preferred partner. However, the side effects lead to
debilitating health issues, that drive people, including her
husband, away. The second story Baƙin Kishi, reveal
the devastating consequences of intense rivalry, as the main character's life
unravels and she ends up in prison. She had blindly trusted her husband's
fidelity, unaware that he had secretly taken another wife and fathered two
children with her. Upon discovering the truth, her anger boils over, leading
her to stab her husband and, in a moment of chaos, accidentally pour hot water
on her own daughter instead of her co-wife. The third story, Tuwon Ƙasa, showcases the
sacrifices of a mother, highlighting the struggles of a young woman married to
an irresponsible partner who refuses to care for her and their twin daughters.
Despite facing violence and hardship, she vows to provide for her children,
determined to give them a better life.
Conclusion
The study underscores the profound influence of digital
technologies on Hausa literature, marking a significant shift from traditional
print novels to online platforms. The BBC Hausa Hikayata competition has been
instrumental in fostering digital literary innovation and empowering women.
Furthermore, the study reveals that digital platforms have created new avenues
for authors and readers alike, highlighting the need to continue promoting and
preserving Hausa literature through digital channels. Additionally, the study
suggests that traditional novel analysis methods can be adapted and integrated
with new approaches to suit the digital age.
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Links
https://en.m.wikipedia.org.socialmedia
https://www.sanahsulaiman.wattpad.com/story
https://www,batulmamman.blogspot.com
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