Nana Kusi Minkah-Premo and Gabriel Awuah Mainoo have been named among the eight shortlisted authors for the 2026 Iska Book Prize, an international literary prize celebrating distinctive and experimental African writing.
They were shortlisted for The Otu Palaver and Keteke Symphony, respectively.
They join six other writers from South Africa, Nigeria and Comoros in a selection that brings together a diverse range of voices, experiences and approaches to storytelling.
The full 2026 shortlist comprises:
- Nana Kusi Minkah-Premo — The Otu Palaver (Ghana)
- Melissa Webster — Who We Were, Where We Are (South Africa)
- Glen Retief — The Tapework Chronicles (South Africa)
- Harsoite Oulfat — Ta-Nub (Comoros)
- Gabriel Awuah Mainoo — Keteke Symphony (Ghana)
- Ishola Abdulwasiu Ayodele — A Conspiration of Guardian Demons (Nigeria)
- C. S. Hadebe — The Ones Who Were Murdered (South Africa)
- David Obongekong David — Ready to Exhale (Nigeria)
Iska Press said it received submissions from across Africa and described the shortlisted manuscripts as works distinguished by their 'distinctive voices, compelling stories and the strength of their writing.'
The Iska Book Prize focuses on prose and hybrid manuscripts that are irreverent, nonconforming and experimental. It seeks to challenge stereotypes about African writing while celebrating diverse voices and nuanced stories about African immigrants and minorities.
The prize is open to both emerging and established African writers worldwide. The winning writer will receive a book publication deal and a $1,000 honorarium.
Iska Press said it is looking forward to introducing the shortlisted writers and their work to its community, while also expressing gratitude to all writers who submitted manuscripts for consideration.