Submit Your Work
"Sounding the Gong of the Black Lyric"
We invite poets of African descent worldwide to submit original, unpublished work for the inaugural Alhaji Arole Agarawu African Poetry Prize.
Submission Guidelines
Open to poets of African descent, regardless of nationality or residence
Submit up to three (3) original, unpublished poems
Poems may be written in English or accompanied by an English translation
Each poem should not exceed 40 lines
Simultaneous submissions are accepted; please notify us immediately if your work is accepted elsewhere
Previously published work (including on personal blogs or social media) is not eligible
Both emerging and established poets are welcome to submit
Reading Period & Key Dates
This is an annual prize. Reading periods and submission windows will be announced at the start of each cycle.
Publication Terms
Publishing Format
Winning and shortlisted poems will be published digitally on the Arole Agarawu Foundation website. The Foundation reserves the option to produce a print anthology of selected works.
Rights Acquired
Upon publication, the Arole Agarawu Foundation acquires first publication rights. All other rights remain with the author. After publication, authors are free to republish their work elsewhere with acknowledgment of the prize.
Prize & Compensation
The grand prize winner will receive a monetary award (amount to be announced), publication of their winning work, and recognition at the annual awards event. Shortlisted poets will receive publication and a certificate of recognition.
Ready to Submit?
Submit via One Story's Submission Manager
We use One Story's Submission Manager to accept and manage all submissions. Click below to create an account and submit your poems.
Submit Your Work →Submissions open February 28, 2026. You will be redirected to our submission portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a submission fee?
No. The Alhaji Arole Agarawu African Poetry Prize is free to enter.
Can I submit work in languages other than English?
Yes, poems may be submitted in any language, provided they are accompanied by an English translation.
Can I submit previously published work?
No. All submissions must be original, unpublished works. This includes work published on personal blogs, social media, or other platforms.
How will I know if my submission was received?
You will receive an automatic confirmation email via the Submission Manager upon successful submission.
Have more questions?
Please visit our contact page or email us at info@aroleagarawufoundation.com.