We are delighted to announce the longlist for the inaugural Ladi Kwali Poetry Prize. Supported in partnership with Bakandamiya, the prize celebrates artistic excellence and spotlights remarkable voices shaping contemporary African poetry.
From a strong and diverse field of entries, the judges have selected a longlist that reflects the vitality and range of poetic practice across the continent. We thank every poet who submitted their work and congratulate those who have been longlisted.
Chiwenite Onyekwelu wins the inaugural Ladi Kwali Poetry Prize. Sa'ada Isa Yahaya and Taiwo Hasaan are first and second runner-up.
The judges have selected the shortlist for the inaugural Ladi Kwali Poetry Prize — five outstanding works from a strong field of entries.
The inaugural Ladi Kwali Poetry Prize celebrates artistic excellence and spotlights remarkable voices shaping contemporary African poetry. Submissions are currently closed.
A transformative mentorship and publishing program empowering emerging writers from Northern Nigeria. Applications for the 2025 cohort are currently closed.
