Caine Prize unveils shortlist of African stories for 2024 annual award

The Caine Prize for African Writing has unveiled its shortlist for 2024, showcasing a diverse range of storytelling from across the continent.

The annual award honours outstanding African writers by celebrating the richness and diversity of African literature and recognising outstanding achievements in African storytelling.

This year’s shortlist for the £10,000 award features five stories selected from 320 entries from 28 African countries.

The five shortlisted writers for the 2024 Caine Prize are:

1. Tryphena Yeboah from Ghana, who was shortlisted for “The Dishwashing Women”, published in Narrative Magazine (Fall 2022).
2. Nadia Davids from South Africa for “Bridling”, published in The Georgia Review (2023).
3. Samuel Kolawole from Nigeria for “Adjustment of Status”, published in New England Review.
4. Uche Okonkwo from Nigeria for “Animals”, published in ZYZZYVA (2024).
5. Pemi Aguda from Nigeria for “Breastmilk”, published in One Story.

This year marks 24 years since the inaugural Caine Prize was awarded.

The organisation said the format for this year’s announcement will be adapted to focus on Africa, with the winner to be revealed on September 17, 2024.

The shortlisted writers will also be integrated into the Caine Prize’s 25th-anniversary celebrations.

Chika Unigwe, who chairs the judges panel, described the judging process as both challenging and rewarding, expressing hope that the shortlisted publications will receive the attention they deserve.

"We read over 200 eligible stories and unearthed many gems from both familiar and new writers. Our discussions were passionate, and when we reached our (unofficial) longlist, we wished we could have included every story. Our consolation is knowing that these works are out in the world, receiving the attention they deserve," she said.

She said stories in the shortlist and the honourable mention span four countries and feature writers at various stages of their promising careers.

"These stories, ranging from speculative to realistic, cover diverse subject matters but share a common thread: they are compelling, universal human stories. They offer insights into our societies, governments, cultures, and the broader world, ultimately posing the fundamental question that all great art asks: How do we navigate life?” she said.

Tom Jenks, the editor of Narrative Magazine, praised Tryphena Yeboah’s work, saying it is recognisable from her talent and voice.

“From the first stories and essays we read by Tryphena Yeboah, we recognised her unique talent and voice. Her stories bring an intense, nuanced focus on the fraught roles and relationships in her native Ghana," Jenks said.

The editor and director of The Georgia Review, Gerald Maa, expressed his excitement, saying it was an honour to be shortlisted for the prestigious prize.

“I’m thrilled that The Georgia Review will be part of that mix this year,” he said.

Carolyn Kuebler, the editor of New England Review, said Samuel Kolawole’s story reveals the human cost of illegal immigration and the deceptive allure of the West.

"It’s both potent and understated, capturing deep loneliness and unbearable shame," Kuebler said.

Additionally, senior ZYZZYVA editor John McMurtrie celebrated Uche Okonkwo’s achievement, saying her story titled “Animals” captures the rhythms of daily life with gentle "humour and understated grace”.

Will Allison, a contributing editor at One Story, praised Pemi Aguda’s “Breastmilk”, noting, “the story’s raw honesty and vivid portrayal of early parenthood resonate deeply”.

“Aguda explores the fear of failing one’s child with tremendous depth,” said Allison.

Chair of The Caine Prize Board of Trustees Ellah Wakatama said they look forward to using the 2024 prize to amplify Africa’s rich writing history and showcase new voices.

"This fresh approach ties into our goal of hosting more events on the continent during our 25th anniversary celebrations," she said.

All shortlisted stories will be featured in The Caine Prize Anthology, along with works from the Caine Prize Workshop held in Malawi this year.

The organisation said more details of the 25th anniversary celebrations will be announced later.