Born on May 1, 1950, in Bondé, Cameroon, Werewere-Liking Gnepo is a talented multidisciplinary artist. Since 1978, she has been living in Côte d’Ivoire, where she has built an incredible artistic career, according to #Puissance237.

As a great writer, Werewere-Liking Gnepo has published nearly thirty titles, exploring different genres such as novels, plays, tales, essays, art books, and poetry. Her writing is deeply rooted in African culture, and she addresses themes such as identity, tradition, and the human condition with great finesse.

A renowned painter, Werewere-Liking Gnepo began her career in 1968 and has participated in numerous exhibitions around the world. Her artistic work reflects her unique vision of the world and society, blending traditional and contemporary elements in vibrant and expressive compositions.

Werewere-Liking Gnepo is also a playwright, an innovative puppeteer, and a recognized director. She has created numerous large-scale total theater productions, often referred to as African operas, which have been presented on world tours. Her talent for blending different artistic media and disciplines creates unique and powerful theatrical experiences.

As a researcher in traditional pedagogical techniques at the University of Abidjan (ILENA) from 1979 to 1985, Werewere-Liking Gnepo played a crucial role in the revolution of ritual theater. She also initiated the Ki-Yi Mbock Artistic Group and developed a training system inspired by African initiations, thus helping hundreds of disadvantaged youth reintegrate into society advantageously as leaders. Her remarkable work earned her the “City Hero” Award from Prince Claus in 2000.

Werewere-Liking Gnepo’s achievements have been recognized on numerous occasions. She has won several prestigious awards, such as the Arletty Prize from France, the René Praile Prize from Belgium, and the Fonlon Nichols Prize from the University of Alberta in Canada. She has also been appointed Knight of the French Arts and Letters and Commander of the National Order of Merit of Côte d’Ivoire. As a member of the High Council of the Francophonie from 1997 to 2003, she actively contributed to the promotion of the French language and cultural diversity.

Today, Werewere-Liking Gnepo is a permanent member of the Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Cultures of Africa and African Diasporas in Côte d’Ivoire. For #Puissance237, her artistic legacy and commitment to culture and youth continue to inspire and leave a mark on the African artistic landscape and beyond.

The Editorial team