Kenyan writer and culture journalist Frank Njugi has been recognized in Afrocritik’s list of 50 Notable Essays from Africa in 2024 for his essay, “The Palate”, published in The Journal of African Youth Literature (JAY Lit).
“The Palate” takes readers on a journey through Port Louis, Mauritius, where Njugi’s exploration of local cuisine becomes a gateway to understanding the deeper cultural and historical narratives of the region. Through vivid descriptions and personal reflections, Njugi crafts an essay that not only delights the senses but also sheds light on identity, heritage, and the lingering echoes of colonial history.
As a publication dedicated to uplifting African youth voices, JAY Lit is proud to have been the platform for Njugi’s work. His inclusion in Afrocritik’s list is a testament to the powerful storytelling emerging from young African writers who are reshaping contemporary literature with authenticity and insight.
Njugi’s recognition reinforces JAY Lit’s mission to provide a space for emerging African voices to thrive and be celebrated on the global stage. His work joins a vibrant collection of essays that collectively reflect the diverse intellectual and creative currents flowing across the continent in 2024.
Frank Njugi is a Kenyan self-taught writer, page poet, culture journalist, and critic based in Nairobi. His literary works have been featured in platforms such as Brittle Paper, 20.35 Africa, Olney Magazine, Kalahari Review, and African Writer Magazine. As a culture journalist and critic, he has contributed to publications including Debunk Media, The Republic, Culture Africa, Sinema Focus, and Wakilisha Africa.
In recognition of his literary contributions, Njugi was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2023 and was a runner-up in the 2023 ILS – Fence Fellowship seminar. He has also been longlisted for the Akachi Chukwuemeka Prize for Literature 2023 and won a SEVHAGE-Agema Founder’s Prize in 2023. Additionally, he was nominated for the Sondeka Awards in 2023. Njugi currently serves as the managing editor for Salamander Ink Magazine and a poetry editor at Fiery Scribe Review. He is active on social media and can be found @franknjugi on various platforms.
Click here to read the full list.
Congratulations Njugi!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
