The literary world is abuzz as the Safal Kiswahili Prize announces its 2024 shortlist, showcasing the continent’s most exciting new voices in Kiswahili literature. This year’s selection highlights Tanzania’s growing dominance in African writing, with six of the seven shortlisted authors hailing from the East African nation.
The competition, now in its tenth year, has become a cornerstone of African literary excellence. Sponsored by Safal Group through its subsidiaries Mabati Rolling Mills (Kenya) and ALAF (Tanzania), the prize continues to elevate Kiswahili as a language of literary prestige.
Among the standout entries are Joel Hamisi’s gripping novel Nderemo za Mtaa and Mohamed Hamid Haji’s poignant poetry collection ‘Waadhi’.
Kenyan writer Edwin Omindo breaks Tanzania’s near-clean sweep with his short story collection “Mungu Hadanganywi na Hadithi Nyingine”, proving the competition’s pan-African appeal.
“This prize represents more than just literary recognition,” explains Abdilatif Abdalla, Chairman of the Prize’s Board of Trustees. “It’s about preserving our cultural heritage while pushing Kiswahili literature to new heights.”
The sentiment is echoed by judges who reviewed a record 210 submissions this year. Winners will be revealed at a star-studded ceremony in Dar es Salaam on July 3, 2025, with $15,000 in prizes at stake. The top novel and poetry entries will each claim $5,000, while a $2,500 second prize will be awarded in any category.
Beyond the cash awards, winners gain something equally valuable publication. Tanzania’s Mkuki na Nyota Publishers will release the winning manuscripts, with poetry collections receiving English translations through the Africa Poetry Book Fund. As the countdown to the awards begins, all eyes are on these rising literary stars. Their work not only entertains but strengthens the vibrant tapestry of Kiswahili literature across the continent.
