Kenyan Writer Loses Out on Top Award

Kenyan writer, Billy Kahora, lost out on the Caine Prize last evening. He was one of five writers from around Africa who were shortlisted for the annual prize which is now in its 13th year. The prize was won by Nigeria’s Rotimi Babatunde for Bombay’s Republic.

The Caine Prize shortlist was announced two months ago by famed Nigerian writer, Ben Okri, who was also named as the prize’s vice president in April this year. The panel of judges is chaired by Bernadine Evaristo. Other shortlisted entries were Malawi’s Stanley Kenani for Love On Trial, Zimbabwe’s Melissa Tandiwe Myambo for La Salle de Depart and South Africa’s Constance Myburgh for Hunter Emmanuel.

The five beat out 117 other entries from 14 countries around Africa. Previously shortlisted Kenyans who did not win the prize are Mukoma wa Ngugi, Lily Mabura, Parselelo Kantai and Muthoni Garland. Kenyan writers who have won are Binyavanga Wainaina and Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor.

Billy Kahora is the Managing Editor at Kwani? where former winner, Binyavanga Wainaina is the Founding Editor. Billy Kahora also wrote Soul Boy, the critically acclaimed Kenyan short film.