Adinkra Poetry Prize 2024 open for entries, set $200 winning price each for three categories

The Adinkra Poetry Prize has called for submissions for its 2024 edition.

In its third year, the prize invites Ghanaian writers to present poetry that engages with three selected Adinkra symbols and reflects on the country's socio-political landscape.

Fihankra, Nkyinkyim, and Mate Masie are the symbols chosen this year.

Preliminary judges include renowned poets Emma Ofosua, Apiorkor, and Ko-jo Cue, chaired by Professor Esi Sutherland-Addy.

"As we approach the upcoming election year, The Adinkra Poetry Prize invites you to offer words that surprise, excite, frustrate, and incite change," said a statement from the organizers.

It encourages writers to "[serve] as a song for change, a chant, a prayer, a potential new national anthem, or guidelines to hold us accountable to our nation and ourselves."

Poems submitted should directly or indirectly identify one of the chosen symbols within the context of Ghana's current political and economic conditions.

The competition is open to Ghanaian citizens aged 18 and above residing in Ghana.

Three finalists in each category, the organizers said will receive $70 each, with the category winners taking $200.

Support from the University of New Hampshire, Mellon Mays Foundation, and All African Women Poetry Festival will fund the 2024 edition.

Finalists may also apply for residency at the prestigious WaterMill Center in New York.

Entrants have until 15 February 2024 to submit up to three unpublished poems per person via email.

The committee looks forward to thoughtful submissions that join "in celebrating Ghana's rich cultural heritage through the power of words, and let your voice be heard as we shape the future of our nation together."