The Caine Prize for African Writing
Free to Apply
Closing: 27th February ’26
Annual literary award of £10,000 for the best short story by an African writer published in English. Open to African writers (whether in Africa or the diaspora) aged 18+.
Stories must be 3,000-10,000 words, published within the five years preceding the deadline, and constitute fictional short stories only (novels, children’s stories, factual writing, academic essays, plays, poetry, autobiography/biography not eligible). Entries must be submitted by publishers (including publishers of physical/digital books, literary journals, magazines, arts-oriented websites) via email with publisher’s letter confirming writer consent, publication date, and author nationality. Self-published and unpublished works not eligible.
Winner and shortlisted writers invited to participate in events in Africa, London and elsewhere with travel awards provided. Shortlisted stories published in annual Caine Prize Anthology by Cassava Republic Press.