Kwani launches new prize for novel manuscripts

“This prize seeks to recognize the possibilities of form in an ongoing genre that has re-emerged in the work of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Alain Mabanckou, The Kwani? Manuscript Project is a conversation, an ill guised attempt at growing its own list. For there is no greater celebration of emergent forms than in publishing our […]

“This prize seeks to recognize the possibilities of form in an ongoing genre that has re-emerged in the work of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Alain Mabanckou, The Kwani? Manuscript Project is a conversation, an ill guised attempt at growing its own list. For there is no greater celebration of emergent forms than in publishing our own, thanks to those who have existed before us and helped us believe. We look forward to your submissions,” a statement by the organisers said.

The competition, Kwani Manuscript Porject, which is for unpublished full length novel manuscripts between 60, 000 and 120, 000 word count is open until August 20th and the winner will be going home with 300,000 KShs (which is about $3,600 US or N 568, 800).

The second prize winner goes home with 150,000 KShs, while third place is pegged at 75,000 KShs.

“In addition Kwani will publish manuscripts from across the shortlist and longlist, including the three winning manuscripts, as well as partnering with regional and global agents and publishing houses to create high profile international publication opportunities,” the organisers added.

Winners will be announced in December 2012 at the Kwani? Litfest.

The Kwani? Manuscript Project was initially conceptualised after Kwani Trust received the Prince Claus Award in December 2010 for “establishing a dynamic platform for new voices in African Literature.” The award has provided seed money for this prize.

Entries are to be submitted to [email protected]. other details are available at www.kwani.org.