Frank Njugi is a gem of a writer in the African Literary world. At 25, he has established himself as one of Kenya’s youngest and most exciting page poets and critics. His works often explore the complexity of African identity, culture, and the ever-evolving dynamics of society.
Frank was born on August 6th, 1999 in Kiambu, Kenya. His works reflect his Kenyan upbringing, life experiences, and lifestyle. He was raised in Naivasha, Kenya. His father introduced him to literature from a young age, thus shaping Frank’s outlook on art and the beauty of writing. On a particular occasion, his father brought home an assortment of books that included trilogies by Ken Follet and Lee Child. These books solidified his connection with literature and storytelling.
Largely inspired by notable names in the literary field, he studied the works of African poets such as Romeo Oriogun, Clifton Gachagua, and Alexis Teyie. They encouraged him to take big leaps because they had also done so. The Enkare Review, a Kenyan literary journal, also formed a core part of his early education in poetry during his teenhood. Engaging with the journal helped him refine his poetry skills and draw inspiration from its focus on African literature and creative expression.
He studied International Relations and Diplomacy at Gretsa University, Thika in Kenya. Shortly after, in 2023, Frank got the opportunity to attend the Nairobi Writers Academy courtesy of 2018 Caine Prize winner Makena Onjerika. At the academy, he learned the intricacies of nonfiction writing under Carey Baraka. The classes also introduced him to New Journalism and the world of its pioneering figures such as Truman Capote, Joan Didion, and Gay Talese.
His experience ignited within him a newfound passion for journalism. More specifically, he wanted to become a critic. He began his career as a culture journalist and critic with stints as a contributor at Debunk Media. He also interned at Wakilisha Africa, an organization committed to promoting and preserving African culture. At the beginning of 2024, he was hired as the first-ever East African correspondent of Los Angeles and Lagos-based African and Black Media Publication, Afrocritik.
With over 70 publications in literary and media journals around the world, Frank has earned several accolades for his outstanding and impactful works. He is a recipient of a Sevhage Agema Founders Prize for Poetry and a Pushcart Prize nomination. He was also named as one of the runners-up in the 2023 Fence International Literary Seminar. Frank was shortlisted for the inaugural Hyginus Ekwuazi Poetry Prize and appeared on the longlist of the inaugural Akachi Chukwuemeka Prize for African Literature.
The past year was eventful for Frank who was honoured with several literary accolades and awards. He won the inaugural JAY Lit Prize for Non-Fiction, a testament to his literary prowess and skill. He was selected as a Fellow of the 2024 African Writers Trust Residency and the 2024 International Literary Seminar Fellow. Recently, Frank was also shortlisted for the 2025 Rajat Neogy Editorial Fellowship, a program designed to nurture editorial talent across Africa.
In early 2025, Frank published Ujana, under Inkspired, a literary publishing house. The word Ujana translates to “youth” in Swahili. It is a chapbook that explores the complicated reality of being a young artist in East Africa. Through its vivid and evocative poetry, it captures the essence of the region’s culture, traditions, dynamics, and spirit. Frank is currently working on a short story collection and another chapbook set for release in 2025. He is also setting the stage for future full-length poetry and essay collections. He is currently curating the inaugural issue of the German-based platform, Culture Africa and has exciting work coming with the St Petersburg Review.
As a writer, Frank has realized that awards and achievements aren’t the most exciting things about his career. Through his writing, he has been able to discover more about himself, his identity, and his self-worth. He understands that his career is really just beginning and he still has a long way to go. While he doesn’t let himself get carried away by the attention and praise, he is still quite proud of his growth and determination.
The award-winning writer has often expressed his delight over the growth and positive progression of the Kenyan literary scene. Frank has stated that his heart swells with pride when he witnesses the success of other Kenyan writers. He encourages young African writers to keep making impactful and courageous moves.“We are living in exciting times,” He says, “and I am glad I am here to witness it.”
We’re very proud of Frank and we look forward to celebrating more success from him.
You can read his JAY Lit award-winning essay, “The Palate”, here.
Oreoluwa Odusote
Writer, poet, and dreamer.
