(3 Minutes Read)
The stage is set for the 8th edition of the African Writers Conference in Maseru, Lesotho from October 27 to November 2, 2025. This highly acclaimed event will bring together writers, publishers, literary enthusiasts, and cultural leaders.
This annual gathering is organised by the African Writers Development Trust in partnership with Writers Space Africa, has grown into one of the continent’s most significant literary events, fostering a space for dialogue, creativity, and the appreciation of African storytelling. Last year’s conference in Kigali left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, with discussions centered on the power of children’s literature in shaping African youth. It reinforced the idea that storytelling is more than an artistic expression; it is a tool for education, identity formation, and social cohesion.
Writers from across the continent explored the importance of narratives in shaping young minds and inspiring future generations. The event also saw the recognition of outstanding literary talents through the prestigious African Writers Awards, with Ghana’s Elizabeth Dwamena-Asare winning the short story category and Kenya’s Grace Thuo receiving the Wakini Kuria Prize for Children’s Literature. The newly introduced Wanjohi Prize for African Poetry honoured Africa’s rich poetic tradition, further expanding the event’s influence.
Now, as the focus shifts to Maseru, Lesotho, the conversation expands to the broader role of African narratives in uniting cultures and empowering creatives. The theme for 2025, “Celebrating African Narratives: Uniting Cultures and Empowering Creatives” reflects the continent’s diverse yet interconnected storytelling traditions. Across Africa, literature has served as a bridge between cultures, preserving histories, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring new generations. In an age where African creatives are breaking global barriers, this theme seeks to reaffirm the role of literature in fostering unity and equipping storytellers with the tools to thrive.
A major highlight of the event will be the African Writers Awards, which continue to recognize and reward excellence in African literature. Following the success of last year’s winners, expectations are high for new voices to emerge and for established authors to showcase their literary mastery. The categories and prize details will be announced in the coming months, generating anticipation among writers across the continent.
Read Also;
https://trendsnafrica.com/tanzanian-abdulrazak-gurnah-gets-coveted-nobel-literature-prize/
Maseru preparing to welcome the continent’s literary minds, the 2025 African Writers Conference promises to be a landmark event, strengthening the unity of African cultures through storytelling. As AWC continues to expand its reach and influence, Maseru 2025 is poised to be more than a gathering, it will be a movement, reinforcing the power of African narratives to unite, inspire, and transform societies.
