SAFAL KISWAHILI PRIZE

FOR AFRICAN LITERATURE

Celebrating the finest voices in African literature since 2014

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SAFAL KISWAHILI PRIZE FOR AFRICAN LITERATURE



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PREVIOUS COMPETITIONS

2024

2024 WINNERS


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2022

2022 WINNERS


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2021

2021 WINNERS


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Community Updates

Stay connected with the latest from the Safal Kiswahili Prize community.

NEW
May 10, 2026

2026 Submissions Now Closed

Thank you to all writers who submitted manuscripts for the 2026 competition. Our panel of judges is now reviewing over 200 entries received from across East Africa.

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April 15, 2026

Record Number of Submissions Received

This year's competition has attracted an unprecedented number of manuscripts, reflecting the growing interest in Kiswahili literature across the continent.

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January 29, 2026

Call for Submissions 2026 Opens

The Safal Kiswahili Prize officially opened submissions for the 2026 competition. Writers are invited to submit unpublished manuscripts in fiction, poetry, and short stories.

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UPCOMING
JUL 18 2026

2026 Awards Ceremony — Dar es Salaam

Join us for the prestigious awards ceremony where we celebrate this year's winners. The event will be held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, bringing together authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Open to Public
SEP 05 2026

Kiswahili Literary Workshop — Nairobi

A two-day workshop for aspiring Kiswahili writers, featuring masterclasses from past winners and established authors. Open to all skill levels.

Nairobi, Kenya Registration Required
IMPORTANT
May 2026

Judges Panel Announced for 2026

We are pleased to announce the distinguished panel of judges for this year's competition. The panel brings together experts from leading universities across East Africa.

Meet the judges
March 2026

New Publishing Partnership

The Safal Kiswahili Prize continues its partnership with Mkuki na Nyota Publishers, ensuring that winning manuscripts reach readers across Africa and beyond.

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