The winner of the inaugural Ma Kẹkẹ Short Story Contest × The Ama Ata Aidoo Award has been announced. Ikechukwu Henry won for his compelling story that demonstrated exceptional creativity and unique storytelling approach. The selection followed the review of over 150 submissions from across the continent.

The award presentation took place at the Ghana International Book Fair 2025, as part of the Ama Ata Aidoo Creative Writing Competition and Award Ceremony. Henry will receive USD 500 and a publishing deal with Gemspread Publishing.

Henry’s story “The Archives of Forgotten Names” stood out for its creativity, strong narrative voice, and cultural resonance. The judging process was led by Denja Abdullahi, Former Director of the National Council for Arts & Culture (Nigeria), Former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), and UNESCO Global Facilitator & Expert on Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Abdullahi, a poet, playwright, and recipient of the National Productivity Order of Merit Award in 2021, guided the careful selection process that narrowed the field to a shortlist of five finalists: “Voices in Exile” by Kanyinsola Akinbode, “When the Baobab Weeps” by Nyarko Grace, “Ndewo, My Motherland” by Eze Goodluck, “The Rest is History: The Men in Black” by Celestine Seyon Reuben, and “The Archives of Forgotten Names” by Ikechukwu Henry.

The contest, launched in 2025 through a collaboration between Gemspread Publishing, the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA), and the African University of Communication and Business (AUCB), was established to celebrate creativity, encourage emerging voices, and unite African literature across borders. The overwhelming response of over 150 entries reflected Africa’s vibrant literary talent and diversity of storytelling traditions.

Speaking on behalf of Gemspread Publishing, Shalom Shaba, Director of Publishing, emphasized the contest’s mission: “The Ma Kẹkẹ × Ama Ata Aidoo Award was born out of a vision to create accessible platforms for African writers, while honouring the legacy of one of Africa’s most influential literary figures. We are deeply proud of all who submitted stories, and especially of Ikechukwu, whose work reminds us of the power of African storytelling to connect, inspire, and endure.”

In addition to recognizing the winner, the contest organizers announced that all longlisted authors will participate in a special workshop designed to help refine their stories and strengthen their craft, demonstrating the initiative’s commitment to supporting African writers beyond the competition itself.

The Ma Kẹkẹ Short Story Contest × The Ama Ata Aidoo Award represents a significant new platform for emerging African writers, combining recognition with practical support through publishing opportunities and professional development workshops.

Congratulations to Ikechukwu Henry on this remarkable achievement.