African Writers Award - Commonwealth Foundation

Writers Space Africa is pleased to announce the 9th edition of the African Writers Awards. This award recognises outstanding creative writing by African writers and aims to promote original voices across the continent and the diaspora.

For the 2026 edition, submissions are invited in two genres: Poetry and Short Story. Participants must choose one genre only. Entries submitted in more than one genre will be disqualified.

Genres: Poetry or Short Story
Theme: Belonging
Entry fee: None
Submission period: March 15 – July 1, 2026

Length requirements:

Poetry: Minimum of 14 lines
Short Story: 3,000 – 5,000 words

The winner in each genre will receive:

A cash prize of $100
A certificate of achievement

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Enquiries about submissions should be directed to Writers Space Africa. Please always refer to their website for complete details and information.

Please note, this call is run by Writers Space Africa, not the Commonwealth Foundation.