The Fourth Edition of the Mwalimu Nyerere National Creative Writing Awards is set for April 13, 2026, at the Super Dome Masaki, celebrating the life and legacy of the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
Speaking in Dodoma, Education, Science, and Technology Minister Prof. Adolf Mkenda said the annual event honors Mwalimu Nyerere’s contributions to promoting the Swahili language and preserving Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.
“This year’s awards cover four literary categories: novels, children’s stories, plays, and poetry. Our goal is to promote Swahili, nurture creative writing talent, safeguard our history and culture, and expand library resources nationwide,” Prof. Mkenda said.
The ceremony will be graced by internationally acclaimed East African poet Abdilatif Abdallah, who spent over 15 years teaching at the University of Dar es Salaam.
His presence is expected to inspire writers and literary enthusiasts across the region.
Ahead of the awards, an academic discussion will bring together Tanzanian creative writers alongside distinguished guests from Uganda and Rwanda, providing a platform for literary exchange and collaboration.
