Deadline Extended: 9mobile Prize for Literature (£15,000 and Other Prizes) for African Writers 2018

The 9mobile Prize for Literature celebrates new writers of African citizenship whose first fiction book (over 30,000 words) was published in the last twenty four (24) months. For the purposes of this definition, first book means first printed production in book form of any type or genre.

Application Deadline: 18th September 2017

Offered annually? Yes

Eligible Countries: African Countries

To be taken at (country): Nigeria, United Kingdom

About the Award: The 9mobile Prize for Literature celebrates new writers of African citizenship whose first fiction book (over 30,000 words) was published in the last twenty four (24) months. For the purposes of this definition, first book means first printed production in book form.

The 9mobile Prize accepts submitted books which must be a writer’s first work of fiction of over 30,000 words, published in the last 24 months.

In line with 9mobile vision of promoting upcoming writers, 9mobile will sponsor a book tour to three African cities. The winning writer will also embark on the 9mobile Fellowship at the University of East Anglia mentored by Professor Giles Foden (author of The Last King of Scotland) which will include significant opportunities to meet other writers, publishers and most importantly work on their second book.

Judges:

1. Harry Garuba
2. Doreen Baingana
3. Siphiwo Mahala

Offered Since: 2013

Type: Contest

Eligibility: 

Selection Criteria:

• Submissions will only be accepted from publishing houses.
• All books entered must have a registered ISBN number or equivalent.
• Entries by new writers must be published within the last 24 months before submission
• Entries for fiction books will be submitted by publishers who have published a minimum of three (6) authors.
• Publisher should have been a registered business (with certificate of incorporation as a publisher) for minimum of three years
• Each publisher will be allowed to enter a maximum of three (3) books – however books maybe called in by the judges.
• Each entry will be required to be accompanied by Seven (7) copies of the book being entered along with acceptance of publicity terms.
• The 9mobile Prize for Literature is not open to employees or to staff of any organization working directly with 9mobile.

Value of Award: The winner of the 9mobile Prize for Literature receives £15,000, and a high end device. In line with our vision of promoting upcoming writers, 9mobile will sponsor a book tour to three African cities. The winning writer will also embark on the 9mobile Fellowship at the University of East Anglia mentored by Professor Giles Foden (author of The Last King of Scotland) which will include significant opportunities to meet other writers, publishers and most importantly work on their second book.

The 9mobile Prize for Literature is unique in that it also aims to promote the publishing industry at large and will therefore purchase 1000 copies of all shortlisted books which will be donated to various schools, book clubs and libraries across the African continent.

How to Apply:

• Interested candidates should fill and download application from here
• The application form should be submitted along with seven (7) copies of the published book to this contact address

Visit Program Webpage for details

Award Provider: 9mobile