The Caine Prize for African Writing is one of the most prestigious literary awards for African authors. It is named after the late Sir Michael Caine who intended that the award be, ”open to writers from anywhere in Africa for work published in English. Its focus is on the short story, as reflecting the contemporary development of the African story-telling tradition.” The first Prize was given in 2000 at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair.
In July of each year, a week of press opportunities, story readings and signings is held for the shortlisted candidates before the winner of the £10,000 prize is announced.
The shortlist is as follows:
Rotimi Babatunde (Nigeria) – “Bombay’s Republic.”
Billy Kahora (Kenya) – “Urban Zoning”
Stanley Kenani (Malawi) - “Love on Trial”
Melissa Tandiwe Myambo (Zimbabwe) - ”La Salle de Depart”
Constance Myburgh (South Africa) - “Hunter Emmanuel”
Click on the links to read the short stories and check back in July to find out who won. Tell us which one you like. Happy reading!