Call for Submissions: The 2025 Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature

The African Griot Review has officially announced the return of the Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature. This year’s edition will celebrate original one-act stage plays from writers across the globe.

The prize was founded by award-winning Kenyan writer and critic Alexander Nderitu, who will also serve as the sole judge for the 2025 competition.

Benefits of the Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature

The winning playwright will receive:

• A cash prize of Kshs 50,000 ($USD 385)
• A one-year online promotion campaign by Websoft Interactive
• Publication in The African Griot Review
• A feature on the magazine’s cover

In 2024, Nigeria’s Haliru Ali Musa took home the award for his short story The Pregnant Ghost.

Eligibility Requirements for the Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature

• Open to writers worldwide, aged 18 and above
• Entries must be in English (translations and adaptations are not eligible)
• Submissions must be unpublished, unperformed, and not optioned
• Only original, one-act plays of about 10–15 minutes (roughly 10–15 pages) are accepted
• Each writer may submit up to three plays (solo-authored only; no collaborations)
• Plagiarism or assistance from AI writing tools will result in instant disqualification
• The playwright’s name must not appear in the manuscript

 

Submission Guidelines

• Deadline: 15 November 2025
• Format: Submit in Adobe PDF to submissions(at)theafricangriot.com
• Subject line: 2025 Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature Submission
• Body of email must include:
  • Title of your play
  • Full name
  • Nationality
  • Age
  • Daytime telephone number
  • Preferred email address
  • A brief bio (max 300 words)

For formatting guidance, consult the free Standard Stage Play guide.

The winner will be announced at a literary event in April 2026, following the longlist (December 2025) and shortlist (February 2026) announcements.

Why You Should Submit

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your dramatic voice on a global stage. Beyond the monetary award, winners benefit from long-term visibility and recognition in the international literary community.

If you’re considering submitting, you may find these resources useful for polishing your work:

• Creative Corners and Writing Spots: Definition, Benefits, and Successful Writers Who Had Them
• Showing vs Telling: How Writers Can Balance Showing Action and Telling Emotions

Key Dates

• Opening Date: 15 August 2025
• Closing Date: 15 November 2025
• Longlist Announcement: December 2025
• Shortlist Announcement: February 2026
• Winner Unveiled: April 2026

For official details, visit the Alexander Nderitu Prize page.