Idembeka Creative Writing Fellowship Announces 2025 Cohort

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The Idembeka Creative Writing Fellowship has unveiled its 2025 cohort, featuring 12 exceptional writers selected from a highly competitive pool of 100 applicants, including JAY Lit book reviewer, C.I. Atumah. The fellowship, known for fostering literary talent across Africa, achieved another milestone this year with a record number of high-quality submissions.

A volunteer team meticulously reviewed the applications, narrowing the field to a shortlist of 25. From there, past fellows and the fellowship’s co-founders, Frances Ogamba, Kasimma, and Mubanga Kalimamukwento, undertook the challenging task of selecting the final fellows. For the first time, the program expanded its cohort from 9 to 12 fellows, highlighting its growing impact and commitment to nurturing diverse voices in African literature.

The 2025 Idembeka Creative Writing Fellows, listed in alphabetical order, are:

  • Augustine Tashinga Mudzudza
  • Azubuike Obi
  • C.I. Atumah
  • Cynthia Chidimma
  • Ephraim N. Orji
  • Fatima Mohammed
  • Felicity Krynauw-Rogers
  • Karen Njelita
  • Mary Ebube Okafor
  • Mulenga Mupinde
  • Olúwatúnmiṣe Ọ̀tọ̀lórìn Akìgbógun
  • Olobo Ejile

Founded by Frances Ogamba, Kasimma, and Mubanga Kalimamukwento, the Idembeka Creative Writing Fellowship is a prestigious program dedicated to nurturing emerging African writers and amplifying their voices on the global stage. The fellowship provides a platform for creative expression and literary growth, selecting a cohort of exceptional writers each year through a rigorous process. Fellows benefit from mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to refine their craft and elevate their storytelling. Committed to celebrating Africa’s diverse narratives, the fellowship has supported writers who have gone on to achieve literary acclaim, ensuring that African literature continues to thrive and inspire readers worldwide. 

Congratulations to C.I. Atumah and all other 2025 fellows as they embark on this transformative journey!

Bakare Oluwatobiloba

I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!