This Saturday, October 27, 2025, London will host a landmark celebration of African literature as the Caine Prize for African Writing commemorates its 25th anniversary with the announcement of the Best of Caine Award at the inaugural Words Across Waters: Afro Lit Festival.
Since its inception in 2000, the Caine Prize has become one of the most prestigious literary honours on the continent, spotlighting powerful short stories and launching the careers of winners and writers who have emerged as some of Africa’s most influential writers. From Leila Aboulela, the first winner, to Helon Habila, whose win in 2001 helped redefine Nigerian literary voice, the Prize has consistently amplified African storytelling on the global stage.
The Best of Caine Award is an honorary accolade recognising the most outstanding winning story from the Prize’s rich 25-year history. This year’s judging panel brings together literary and creative heavyweights: Nobel Laureate Prof. Abdulrazak Gurnah, celebrated Ugandan author Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, and acclaimed Ghanaian film producer Tony Tagoe. Their task: to select a single story that best embodies the spirit, craft, and cultural resonance that the Caine Prize has championed for a quarter century.
The announcement will be the centerpiece of the Words Across Waters: Afro Lit Festival, a new literary gathering designed to celebrate diasporic African voices and foster cross-cultural dialogue.
As the literary world turns its gaze to London this weekend, the Caine Prize’s enduring impact is undeniable. It has not only nurtured individual talent but also helped shape a transcontinental literary movement; one that continues to challenge, inspire, and redefine the global narrative.
