2013 Bessie Head Literature Awards extends deadline

| Wednesday April 10, 2013 00:00

This year's prize money stands at  P10, 000 for winners in three categories, namely novel (40, 000 words and above), short story and children's story (up to 10, 000 words or 10 pages).

The Awards sponsored annually by the Bessie Head  Heritage Trust and Pentagon Publishers started in 2006 to honour Botswana's most celebrated writer, Bessie Head. Bessie Head's works includes; 'When Rain Clouds Gather',  'Maru', and 'A Question of Power'. The awards are meant to encourage the growth of writing and literature in the country.  A total of 45 citizens and residents  have been awarded prizes. The list of winners include Gothataone Moeng, Wazha Lopang, Legodile Seganabeng, Jenny Robson, Laury Kubuitsile, Wame Molefhe, Bontekanye Botumile, and Cheryl Ntumy.

Those wishing to enter should post their submissions to: Bessie Head Literature Awards, P.O. Box 70401, Gaborone before 23 August, 2013. All submissions must include one cover page with the following information: author's name, at least two ways the author can be contacted, a clear statement of the category of the manuscript, and its title. All submissions must also include one photocopy of Omang, passport and residence certificate, or other form of ID. The first page of the manuscript (not the cover page) must also state clearly the category and title of the manuscript. Except for the cover page, manuscripts must not have the author's name on them. Four copies of the manuscript must be sent. All submissions must be typed and in English. Only those following the guidelines will qualify. Entrants must be citizens or residents of Botswana.