The Pfumo Collective has been officially launched, aiming to nurture and promote non-fiction writing across the continent. This initiative is spearheaded by Ellah P. Wakatama, OBE, Editor-at-Large at Canongate Books, and Dr Billy Kahora of the University of Bristol. They are supported by Niki Igbaroola of Jacaranda Books and Bukola Akinyemi, a trustee of the Caine Prize. The project has been made possible through an initial grant from the Open Society Foundation.
The Pfumo Collective is set to officially commence on Monday, 27th January 2025, with an immediate call for proposals from writers. The inaugural theme, “CITIZEN: A Literary Manifesto,” invites submissions that explore the multifaceted concept of citizenship within African contexts. The submissions portal will remain open until 14th February 2025.
Ellah P. Wakatama, OBE, brings a wealth of experience to the initiative. As the founding Publishing Director of The Indigo Press and former deputy editor of Granta magazine, her contributions to African literature are well recognised. She has also served as Chair of the AKO Caine Prize for African Writing, underscoring her commitment to elevating African voices on the global stage.
Dr Billy Kahora, co-founder of the Pfumo Collective, is a distinguished writer and academic affiliated with the University of Bristol. His expertise and dedication to African literature further strengthen the foundation of this new endeavour.
The Pfumo Collective’s launch marks a pivotal moment for non-fiction writers in Africa, providing a platform to develop and showcase their work. With the backing of esteemed literary figures and organisations, the initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on the African literary landscape.
For more information on submission guidelines and the Pfumo Collective’s upcoming programmes, interested writers are encouraged to visit the official website or contact the organisers directly.
