Writers worldwide are invited to showcase their storytelling skills as the Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature returns, seeking original one-act plays written in English. The competition, hosted by The African Griot Review, aims to spotlight creative theatrical talent and will be judged by its distinguished founder, Alexander Nderitu.
Key Takeaways
- Open to writers globally, aged 18 and above
- Submissions must be original, unperformed, unpublished one-act plays in English
- Winner awarded Kshs 50,000, a year of online promotion, and publication
- Deadline for entries: November 15, 2025
Prize Details and Entry Guidelines
The Alexander Nderitu Prize for World Literature is open to anyone over the age of 18, regardless of nationality or geographical location. Writers are invited to submit original one-act stage plays—approximately 15 minutes in performance time and written in English.
Important Eligibility Requirements:
- Entries must be original works (no translations, adaptations, or collaborated pieces).
- Previously published, performed, or commissioned plays are not eligible.
- Plays using artificial intelligence writing tools will be instantly disqualified.
- The playwright’s name should not appear on the script. Each submission must come from a single writer.
- Up to three different plays may be submitted by the same author.
Entries must be submitted in PDF format following the suggested standard stage play format, although strict adherence is not obligatory. Detailed personal information and a brief biography are to be included in the email body (not within the script document itself).
Judging Process and Timeline
Alexander Nderitu, an acclaimed Kenyan writer and critic, will personally judge the competition. The contest is open from August 15, 2025, to November 15, 2025. The judging process involves several key stages:
- Longlist Announcement: December 2025
- Shortlist Announcement: February 2026
- Winner Reveal: April 2026 at a major literary event
Winner Rewards and Recognition
The selected winner will gain significant recognition, receiving:
- A cash prize of Kshs 50,000
- A year-long online promotional campaign
- Feature on the cover of The African Griot Review
- Publication of the winning play in The African Griot Review, granting global exposure to their work
This prize offers an excellent platform for playwrights to gain visibility and further their careers in the theatrical world.
