Deadline: 01-Dec-2025
The Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poetry is awarded annually to an African poet who has not yet published a collection of poetry.
The Sillerman First Book Prize serves as a vital platform for new African poets to bring their unique voices to an international audience. Open exclusively to first-time authors, the prize celebrates the creativity and literary richness of the African continent while supporting writers at a formative stage in their careers.
The competition not only offers a financial reward but also ensures publication with the University of Nebraska Press, providing both recognition and credibility to emerging poets. Its inclusive approach, accepting translated works and submissions from across Africa, reflects a commitment to amplifying diverse poetic expressions.
The Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poets awards USD $1000 and book publication through the University of Nebraska Press to an emerging African poet, with the winner announced in June.
The prize accepts only “first book” poetry manuscripts from African writers who have not previously published a full-length collection, including self-published works sold publicly. Eligible participants must be African by birth, nationality, residence, or parentage.
Submissions must be in English, though translated works are allowed, with a share of the prize going to the translator. Manuscripts should be at least 50 pages long, submitted electronically, and formatted in 12-point Times New Roman or Arial, single-spaced, with one poem per page. Entries are read anonymously, and no entry fee or application form is required.
Multiple submissions are allowed, and manuscripts are accepted until December 1st.
For more information, visit African Poetry Book Fund.