Kwani? Trust, an East African based organization, is “dedicated to nurturing and developing Kenya’s and Africa’s intellectual, creative and imagination resources through strategic literary interventions.” They produce an annual journal, Kwani?, featuring writing from Kenya and have published over 30 new writers since its creation in 2003. The website also displays authors across the continent in the Kwani? Series section. In addition to print materials, Kwani? hosts Poetry Open Mic monthly performances, monthly prose reading series, writing forums, open debate forums, and a literary festival every August in Kenya.
The writers at Kwani? differ in their creative talent, ranging from award-wining short story writers such as the founder, Binyavanga Wainaina, to journalists to scholarly experts in post colonial theory to filmmakers and poets. With such a diverse gathering of minds, Kwani? generates commentary on identity and violence in Kenya, the recent elections in Kenya and Zimbabwe, and the state of the media in Africa. They frequently feature writings by their staff on their website and are currently promoting two projects, 24 Nairobi, a program to showcase images and narratives from Nairobi, and Generation Kenya, a celebration of those who have contributed to a better Kenya since independence.
Whether you are an aspiring Kenyan poet looking for a venue to express your gift or an African literature enthusiast, Kwani?’s blog provides readers with insight into the creative talent and potential of East African writers.
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