Pepetela is the pen name of the Angolan author and politician, Artur Carlos de Almeida e Silva. Born in 1941, he is known for his significant contributions to African literature, particularly in the Portuguese language. His works often explore themes of identity, colonialism, and the struggles of the Angolan people. As a member of the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), Pepetela played a role in the country's fight for independence from Portuguese colonial rule. His novels, such as "Mayombe" and "The Red Lizard," reflect his experiences and the socio-political landscape of Angola, earning him recognition as a prominent literary figure in Africa.