In an unusual decision that has surprised and delighted observers, the final three poets—Romeo Oriogun, Su’eddie Vershima Agema, and Saddiq Dzukogi—come from the younger generation.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
Uzoma Ihejirika
Uzoma Ihejirika is a staff writer at Open Country Mag. He is a staff writer at Folio Nigeria. He is an editor for the AfroAnthology Series and a copy editor for Minority Africa. His writing has appeared or is forthcoming on Lolwe, Music in Africa, and Bakwa Magazine, and can also be found on Medium.
All Work by Uzoma Ihejirika
It is the Zimbabwean’s second novel to be longlisted, after her 2013 debut We Need New Names reached the shortlist.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
With his queerness and community as shield, the Somali writer is the rare artist who considers himself art. “We can be as weird and wonderful and brilliant and badass as we want to be,” he says in his first in-depth interview in eight years.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
“Having grown up in a small city in Nigeria where I had to cobble communities—both queer and literary—the value is in becoming a part of this incredible anthology that makes it possible for us all to exist,” said the Nigerian writer.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
The Nigerian social critic has blogged extensively on the intersection of African literature and politics.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
The Nigerian author of Prince of Monkeys on why rap is “worthy of creative theft by contemporary writers,” and how “the exploits of young writers allow younger writers to dream bigger.”
By Uzoma Ihejirika
Each of the 8 winners will receive $165,000.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
The Booker Prize winner is on the February 2022 cover of Open Country Mag.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
The forthcoming short film, a love story set in Enugu State, Nigeria, is Wapah Ezeigwe’s directorial debut. “I wasn’t willing to compromise any of my artistic vision,” they said.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
In Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, writers are gathering to converse and perform at Eagle Nest Book Club. “It is likely we have created something that will outstay us in this place,” said the founders.
By Uzoma Ihejirika
