The longlist for the 2018 Golden Baobab Prize is out. The prizes provide opportunities for African writers and illustrators to produce more culturally-relevant children’s books. They are organized by Golden Baobab, a Ghana-based arts and culture literary nonprofit that works to increase representation of Africa in the children’s book world.

This year, over 300 entries of previously unpublished works were submitted by writers and illustrators from over 17 African countries.

Here are the twelve authors and illustrators on the longlist:

The Golden Baobab Prize for Picture Books

  • Adeola Adeyemo, Nigeria – The Clock Can’t Jump Through Time
  • Thandazile Sakhile Mpofu, Zimbabwe – Think Before You Act, Kuku!
  • Sharon Salu, Nigeria – Koko’s Head
  • Marie Pelagie Elimbi Moudio, Cameroon – The Water Festival

The Golden Baobab Prize for Early Chapter Books

  • Warũgũrũ Mũchĩra, Kenya – Akinyi
  • David Kwakye, Ghana – Keeper of the Gates
  • Ayo Oyeku, Nigeria – The Era of the Afrocubs
  • Lorna Likiza, Kenya – Oi Gets Lost

The Golden Baobab Prize for African Illustrators

  • Charles Achibi, Nigeria – com/charlesachibi
  • Precious Narotso, Kenya – com/pndraws
  • Henry Ezeokeke, Nigeria – com/henryartist
  • Elizabeth Jeffery, South Africa – greenorebooks.co.za

The winners of the Golden Baobab Prize will be announced on December 15th, 2018. For further information, photos or to arrange interviews, please contact: Eunice Ahenkorah via [email protected]

Tel: +233-553-509-409

Website: www.goldenbaobab.org