Iskanchi Press is a US-based publishing house for African writing. They believe that stories and ideas convey humanity to the future and that our progress to an egalitarian world is sooner achieved when all perspectives are heard and considered.
The inaugural Iskanchi Book Prize attracted an impressive array of talented writers, and the press is thrilled to see such diversity and excellence on this year’s shortlist. The 11 shortlisted manuscripts showcase the best of African realities and the continent’s vibrant literary talent and align with Iskanchi’s mission to promote authentic African perspectives.
The prize seeks to honour outstanding prose and hybrid book manuscripts, offering the winner a publishing opportunity.
Shortlisted Authors:
1. Joyce Odera – Delightful Cage (Nigeria)
2. Lauwo George – FINELAND (Tanzania )
3. Abenea Ndago – Citizens (Kenya)
4. Terna Douglas Abu – The Seeker (Nigeria)
5. Alieu Bundu – The Brilliance Of A Million Suns (Sierra Leone)
6. Onyeka Nwelue- The Perfect Muslims (Nigeria)
7. Khisa John – Sunset Over Elgon Hills (Uganda)
8. Thabi Moeketsi – The Boy With The Indigo Heart (Zimbabwe)
9. Olowe Damilola – A Little Wonder To Dream (Nigeria)
10. Oyinloye Michael Oluwatomisin – Gone (Nigeria)
11. Aminta Dupuis – The Child from Dindefello Falls
The grand prize winner will receive $1500 and publication in Fall 2025.
For further updates visit the official website at www.iskanchi.com
Congratulations to the shortlisted authors on this exceptional achievement!
Bongiwe T. Maphosa
Bongiwe Maphosa is a budding author with a passion for storytelling. With her thought-provoking narratives, she takes her readers on a literary adventure. Bongiwe's works on the human condition from a fresh perspective have earned her recognition and publications in the Avbob Poetry Anthology of 2019, The Writer's Club of South Africa 2021, and JAY Lit in 2021. She hopes to cement her place in the literary community.
