Nigerian writers make up the largest national contingent on the 2026 Morland African Writing Scholarships shortlist, with seven writers selected among 20 finalists from more than 600 entries spanning 32 African countries. Announced by the Miles Morland Foundation, the shortlist also features five writers from South Africa, alongside writers from Ghana, Uganda, Egypt, Mauritius, Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The Nigerian writers are Tarfa Benson, Chinenye Emezie, Mustapha Enesi, Mikhail Ikpoma, Sarah Juma, Okwudili Nebeolisa and Ayotola Tehingbola. The scholarship supports African writers working towards English-language books, offering financial assistance intended to give them the freedom to complete their manuscripts.
Founded in 2013, the London-based Miles Morland Foundation awards scholarships to writers of fiction and nonfiction who were born in Africa or whose parents were both born on the continent. Fiction recipients receive £18,000 over 12 months, while nonfiction writers who require additional research time may receive funding over a period of up to 18 months. According to the Foundation, this year’s shortlist was determined by combining scores from experienced readers who assessed submissions solely on literary merit. The list also includes several returning shortlisted writers, among them Priya Nirmala Devi Hein, who appeared on the 2023 shortlist; A’Eysha Kassiem and Fred Khumalo, shortlisted in 2024; Pulane Noxolo Mpondo, shortlisted in both 2024 and 2025; and Togara Muzanenhamo, who appeared on last year’s list.
The selection process now moves to the final stage, with judges set to choose four scholarship recipients on November 19 and the winners scheduled to be announced on November 20, 2026. For the shortlisted writers, the award offers more than recognition: it provides time and financial support to develop substantial literary projects without the immediate pressure of earning from their writing. Nigeria’s strong representation also underscores the continued presence of Nigerian writers in continental literary opportunities, although the final awards will determine which of the 20 shortlisted candidates receive funding this year.
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