The Pfumo Collective is poised to be a game-changer for African literature, amplifying bold, imaginative storytelling and fostering critical discourse on the continent and beyond.
Here are seven things to know about the full-circle literary endeavour :
- A transformative literary initiative
The Pfumo Collective, launched by literary heavyweights Ellah Wakatama and Dr. Billy Kahora, is a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionising creative non-fiction across Africa. By addressing challenges in production and dissemination, the collective seeks to empower African writers through mentorship, editorial support, and global publishing opportunities.
- A pan-African vision
Funded by the Open Society Foundation and headquartered in Africa, the Pfumo Collective is driven by a powerhouse team including Niki Igbaroola and Bukola Ankiyemi. Their mission is to create a space for African writers to explore themes of identity, nationhood and citizenship in a globalised world.
- The CITIZEN Project
At the heart of the collective’s launch is the CITIZEN project, a month-long call for submissions (January 27–February 14, 2025) inviting African writers to propose creative non-fiction pieces that interrogate what it means to be a citizen in contemporary Africa. Selected participants will receive fully funded support to develop their work.
- A platform for emerging voices
The Pfumo Collective is committed to nurturing both first-time and published authors. Through an in-person workshop in Accra, Ghana, led by Wakatama, Kahora, and a third mentor, writers will refine their submissions into polished works for publication in the anthology “CITIZEN: A Literary Manifesto”.
- A focus on creative non-fiction
Dr Billy Kahora emphasises the importance of non-fiction as a platform for aesthetic and creative expression. The collective aims to fill the gap in pan-African creative non-fiction, encouraging writers to tackle critical questions about identity, belonging and citizenship.
- A sustainable model for African writers
Beyond the CITIZEN project, the Pfumo Collective envisions a long-term, sustainable model to support African writers. This includes connecting them to global publishing networks, engaging with literary festivals and elevating the status of African creative non-fiction on the world stage.
- How to get involved
African writers residing on the continent can submit proposals for the CITIZEN project via www.pfumocollective.org. Submissions must include a writing sample, a short bio and a proposed timeline. Successful applicants will receive stipends, travel expenses, and mentorship.
The deadline for submissions is February 14, 2025.
Follow @pfumocollective on Instagram for updates.
