Our LIS student Daniel Adesiyan, a Grade 11 student, has emerged as the winner of the African Spelling Bee, securing the prestigious continental title after a tense three-round contest held on March 20 in Harare, Zimbabwe. Daniel was awarded a trophy shaped like the map of Africa, symbolizing his remarkable achievement.
Representing Rwanda, the 14-year-old shone among participants from over 15 countries, including South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The African Spelling Bee brings together the continent’s top spellers, who qualify through national competitions, in a contest designed to promote literacy, expand vocabulary, encourage academic excellence, and foster cultural exchange.
The competition is divided into two categories: junior (ages 9–13) and senior (ages 14–18). Daniel claimed victory in the senior category, describing the moment he realised he had won as “unbelievable,” especially after such a challenging contest.
The contest began with about 25 participants, but the first round introduced an unexpected twist: African-language words replaced the expected English words. This challenge eliminated 22 spellers, leaving only six contestants, among whom Daniel was the sole representative from Rwanda to advance, ultimately claiming the top prize.
