The 2025 Commonwealth Short Story Prize shortlist has been announced, and six writers from the African continent are among the 25 selected from nearly 8,000 entries—marking the highest number of submissions in the prize’s history.
This year’s shortlist features stories from 18 Commonwealth countries, with the African continent well-represented through emotionally resonant narratives. The selected writers hail from Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda, showcasing the continent’s diverse storytelling traditions and they are as follows:
- ‘The Flute Player’ by Priscilla Ametorpe Goka (Ghana)
- ‘A Room Full of Teddy Bears’ by Dorechi (Kenya)
- ‘The Sun isn’t Dead Yet (Le soleil n’est pas encore mort)’ by Vashish Jaunky (Mauritius)
- ‘The mothers’ by Olákìtán T. Aládéṣuyì (Nigeria)
- ‘Broken String’ by Stephen M. Finn (South Africa)
- ‘Mothers Not Appearing In Search’ by Joshua Lubwama (Uganda)
Chair of the 2025 judging panel, Dr. Vilsoni Hereniko, praised the collection, stating:
“A great story moves us, causes us to think, and sometimes changes us. This shortlist of relevant, vibrant, and essential reading is made up of the best 25 stories from a pool of almost 8,000 entries. Together, they demonstrate why the short story form must continue to be supported and promoted”
Dr. Anne T. Gallagher, Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation, added:
“Every single writer who entered this year’s prize deserves our congratulations. The breadth of voices, perspectives, and experiences is awe-inspiring and a powerful reminder of the creative energy that unites us as a Commonwealth of people. We congratulate those who made the shortlist; their work speaks not only to our shared challenges but also to our hopes and aspirations.”
The five regional winners will be announced on 14 May, with the overall winner will be revealed on 25 June. All shortlisted stories will be published on adda, the Foundation’s online literary magazine.
Congratulations to all shortlisted writers!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
