The literary world is abuzz with anticipation as the Caine Prize for African Writing prepares to announce its 24th winner at a prestigious ceremony scheduled for October 2, 2023, at One Birdcage Walk in Westminster, London.
The Caine Prize, which celebrates and promotes African storytelling, has unveiled an impressive shortlist of talented writers for its 2023 edition. Among the shortlisted authors are Yejide Kilanko from Nigeria for “This Tangible Thing,” Tlotlo Tsamaase from Botswana for “Peeling Time (Deluxe Edition),” Mame Bougouma Diene and Woppa Diallo from Senegal for “A Soul of Small Places,” Ekemini Pius from Nigeria for “Daughters, By Our Hands,” and Yvonne Kusiima from Uganda for “Weaving.”
The judging panel for the 2023 Caine Prize is chaired by Fareda Banda, a professor of Law at SOAS, University of London. Banda is joined by Edwige-Renée Dro, a writer and literary translator, Kadija George Sesay, the editor and founder of Mboka Festival, Jendella Benson, an author, and Head of Editorial at Black Ballad, and Warsan Shire, a renowned writer and poet known for her collaboration with Beyoncé Knowles-Carter.
Vimbai Shire, the Interim Director of The Caine Prize for African Writing, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event and the exceptional shortlist of writers. Shire emphasised the importance of continued support for the prize and its mission to promote and celebrate African literary talent.
This year’s award ceremony promises to be an intimate and inspiring affair, designed to celebrate the creativity and camaraderie that the Caine Prize is known for. The event will kick off at 6.30 pm with doors opening, followed by a reception with drinks and canapés at 8 pm, and the winner announcement at 9.30 pm.
The Caine Prize for African Writing continues to be a beacon for African literature, and its annual award ceremony is a celebration of the rich literary tapestry that the continent has to offer. Literary enthusiasts around the world are counting down the days to October 2, 2023, when the next African literary luminary will be unveiled.
