The Samira Bawumia Literature Prize (SBLP) as part of strategies to increase regional engagement and awareness of the SBLP particularly in Northern Ghana, the SBLP team undertook a targeted outreach program in Tamale from 13th to 14th June 2025.
The outreach kicked off with a book reading session in Jisonayili, Tamale organized, in collaboration with Female Empowerment and Advocacy for Development (FEAD Ghana), This gathering welcomed a passionate community of literary enthusiasts for an afternoon filled with storytelling, thought-provoking discussions, and a celebration of Ghanaian narratives.
Two accomplished past winners of the SBLP, Najat Seidu and Luther Fembeti Hijiraz, both residents of Tamale, graced the event with their presence. Each shared powerful excerpts from their stories featured in the second anthology, We Move: Ghanaian Dream in Motion. Their readings ignited engaging conversations, shedding light on themes of resilience, identity, and the evolving Ghanaian experience.
Beyond celebrating literary talent, the session marked the launch of the open call for submissions for the highly anticipated third anthology. Attendees were guided through the submission process via the official website and encouraged to contribute their own narratives while the window remains open. This initiative reaffirms SBLP’s commitment to nurturing emerging voices in Ghanaian literature.
A heartfelt appreciation goes to Abdul Raafi Mohammed (Fishbone) for his instrumental role in making this collaboration a success. His dedication to fostering literary engagement continues to inspire writers and readers alike.
With more outreach activities ahead, this initiative champions the art of storytelling, ensuring that diverse voices find their space in Ghana’s literary landscape.
Following a successful kickoff, on June 14, 2025 (day two) the Samira Bawumia Literature Prize (SBLP) transitioned into a dynamic engagement at the Start Right IV Higher Education Exhibition, organized by School of Thoughts at Tamale Senior High School.
This event focused on promoting the latest SBLP anthology and encouraging submissions for the 2025 edition. Through interactive discussions,the SBLP team highlighted the transformative power of storytelling, inspiring students to explore their creative potential and contribute their narratives.
The engagement provided a valuable opportunity to connect with aspiring writers, fostering a culture of literary expression and amplifying diverse perspectives. Conversations centered on how storytelling shapes both personal and collective identities, reinforcing its role as a tool for cultural preservation and empowerment.
With the submission window open, students were guided through the process via the official website, ensuring they had the resources to craft and share their stories. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by attendees reaffirmed the importance of nurturing emerging literary talent and expanding Ghana’s literary landscape.
This outreach serves as a call to action and an invitation to action for young writers to bring their ideas to life, ensuring their unique voices are heard and celebrated.
