We are thrilled to announce the November edition of the Ma kẹkẹ Writing Contest, which invites all African writers to share their stories and unique voices.

The Ma kẹkẹ Writing Contest allows writers to explore themes rooted in African culture, history, and societal dynamics while showcasing their creativity to a global audience.

Why You Should Enter

December is here again—the month of joy, festivities, and unforgettable memories. This year, we have organized the perfect way to kick off your Detty December: a vibrant book-reading event that promises nothing short of extraordinary.

What’s Happening?

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, book lovers and creatives will gather at Roving Heights Bookstore in Victoria Island, Lagos, for a reading of Promise Onyekachukwu's brilliant debut novel, A Hot Lagos Afternoon.

This event isn’t your typical book reading. You’ll experience:

• Author insights as Promise Onyekachukwu shares her creative process and inspiration for the story.
• The infectious energy of Happiness Ogwamhenlu, The Happy Writer, who will be hosting the event with her signature charm and wit.
• A chance to connect with fellow book lovers in a lively and welcoming space.

Why You Should Attend

Whether you’re a lifelong book lover, an aspiring writer, or someone looking for a refreshing way to start your December, this event has something for you. Here’s why you need to be there:

We’re thrilled to announce that Gemspread’s October Ma Kẹkẹ Writing Contest is here!

This is a fantastic chance for African writers to share stories that resonate across cultures and countries.

Why Enter the Ma Kẹkẹ Writing Contest?

• Recognition: Stand a chance to have your work featured in our quarterly Ma Kẹkẹ magazine.

• Cash Reward: The winning story will receive a cash prize of $30, along with an exclusive bonus. It’s a rewarding way to showcase your creativity.

• Global Reach: Ma Kẹkẹ is committed to bringing African narratives to the global stage. Your story could captivate a diverse audience, drawing in readers from across the world.

Prompt 

"To the Streets!"

Want to Learn How to Win the Contest?

We are pleased to announce the much-anticipated call for submissions for our new imprint, Harmattan, dedicated to promoting and publishing authentic African stories.

How to Submit Your Manuscripts

We seek original, engaging African narratives by new and emerging authors of African descent. We are particularly interested in the following genres: historical fiction, romance, crime, thriller, and literary fiction. Please note that we are only accepting full-length novels this time.

Kindly follow these guidelines to submit your manuscript:

1. Email Subject Line

Use “Submission (Harmattan)” as the subject of your email, and send it to submissions@gemspread.com.

2. Email Body and Attachments

• Your email should include a query letter introducing yourself and your work and a phone number to reach you. These should be in the body of the email, not attachments.

• Attach a one-page synopsis of your manuscript as a Word document. This should include all major plot points (including spoilers) and may include a brief description of the book's theme.

• Attach a sample of your manuscript as a Word document. This sample should consist of the first three chapters or the first 10,000 words, whichever is longer.



• Please ensure that the attached sample is formatted as follows: double-spaced, indented paragraphs, left-aligned, with no extra spacing between paragraphs. Use 12-point Times New Roman font on A4-sized paper.

Deadline

The window is open from 21 October to 22 November 2024

Feedback

We will only contact you if your work is shortlisted, and you should hear from us within two months of the deadline. Please check your email regularly during this period.

We look forward to reading your submissions!

P.S.: If you subscribe to our newsletter, you get a free downloadable guide on the Top Five Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting Your Manuscript.

We're super excited to announce that the Ma Kẹkẹ Writing Contest is here again. This contest offers a unique platform for African writers to showcase their talents. It provides a fantastic opportunity to engage with the literary community, win prizes, and see your work published in the prestigious Ma Kẹkẹ literary magazine.

Why Enter the Ma Kẹkẹ Writing Contest?

1. Recognition: Winning entries will be featured in a widely respected literary magazine, giving writers exposure to a broader audience.
2. Cash Reward: The top story wins $30, a bonus, and the honor of being published.
3. Global Reach: As a platform dedicated to African voices, Ma Kẹkẹ offers writers the opportunity to be read by a diverse and global audience.

Prompt for September

Write a story of precisely 1,000 words with the prompt:

"#JusticeForAda"

Deadline: 3:00 pm (GMT +1), Sunday, 22 September 2024

Ma Kẹkẹ is here again🎉

Join our Ma Kẹkẹ Writing Contest and stand a chance to win $30.

Why Enter?

You might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" Well, apart from the sheer joy of writing, this contest offers a host of exciting benefits:

1. Get Published: Winners and runners-up will receive free publication in our quarterly Ma Kẹkẹ magazine.
2. Win Amazing Prizes: The winner will receive a cash prize of $30.
3. Connect with Fellow Writers: By entering our contest, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the written word.
4. Build Your Portfolio: Whether you aim to be a published author or want to improve your skills, this contest is an excellent addition to your writing portfolio.

So what are you waiting for? We look forward to reading your entry.

Prompt for August

Write a story of precisely 1,000 words with the prompt:

"Let the poor breathe"

Deadline 3:00pm GMT+1, Sunday, 25th August, 2024

It’s that time of the month again🥳. Share your story in the Ma Kẹkẹ writing contest.

Why Enter?

This contest is a fantastic opportunity for you to showcase your creativity and gain recognition. The winner will receive cash prizes and both winners and runners-up will receive free publication opportunities.

Whether you're an experienced writer or new to the art, this contest provides a platform to share your unique voice and talent with a wider audience. Plus, you'll have the chance to be judged by a panel of literary experts, adding prestige to your writing portfolio.

What are you waiting for? We look forward to reading your entry. Best of luck to all participants!

Prompt for July

Write a story of exactly 1,000 words with the prompt: 

"God, abeg”

Deadline: 3:00 PM GMT +1, Sunday, 21st July, 2024