Deadline: March 31, 2026
The Chizi Wigwe Prize for African Futurism 2026 is now open for submissions. This prestigious annual prize celebrates the creativity, imagination, and innovation of African artists and visionaries who are reimagining Africa’s place in the future.
Organised by the 1952 Africa Foundation in partnership with The HOW Foundation, the prize honours the legacy of Chijioke Wigwe (fondly known as Chizi Wigwe), a passionate advocate for African excellence, innovation, and cultural advancement.
About the Chizi Wigwe Prize for African Futurism 2026
The Chizi Wigwe Prize for African Futurism 2026 seeks to empower and spotlight African creatives who use art, technology, and storytelling to imagine a futuristic Africa. The prize challenges artists to explore the theme “Africa in 2100”, encouraging bold, thought-provoking and culturally grounded expressions of Africa’s possible futures.
African Futurism, as a genre, celebrates Africa’s culture and heritage while envisioning a world where technology, identity, and innovation shape new possibilities for the continent. Entrants are invited to merge artistic creativity with futuristic concepts to tell powerful stories about what Africa could become in the next century.
Theme: Africa in 2100
The 2026 edition focuses on the theme “Africa in 2100.” Artists and creatives are invited to imagine and visualise what Africa might look like in the next 75 years — exploring how culture, technology, science, and imagination can reshape the continent.
Submissions should respond to key questions such as:
- What will African societies, cities, and communities look like in 2100?
- How might technology influence culture, governance, and innovation?
- What role will Africa play in shaping the global future?
This theme offers broad creative freedom for participants to explore speculative ideas rooted in African identity, values, and imagination.
Award
A total of USD 15,000 will be awarded to one exceptional artist or creative whose work best captures the spirit of African Futurism and embodies the vision of the Chizi Wigwe Prize for African Futurism 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the prize, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be African citizens or residents of an African country.
- Aged between 18 and 45 years old.
- Must submit original and unpublished works that clearly interpret the theme “Africa in 2100.”
- Open to artists and creatives across all disciplines and mediums, including visual arts, digital art, literature, film, music, design, and more.
Submission Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
- Statement of Purpose: A brief explanation of the artist’s vision and motivation for participating in the prize.
- Project Proposal: A detailed description of the creative idea or project being submitted.
- Portfolio: Samples of previous works demonstrating artistic ability and relevance.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Résumé: Detailing the applicant’s artistic background and achievements.
- Reference Letter: A recommendation from a recognised art institution, mentor, or professional within the creative industry.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submission is 31 March 2026. Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to submit their entries early.
Selection Process
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of distinguished judges from various artistic and cultural backgrounds. The selection will be based on:
- Originality and creativity of the submission
- Relevance to the theme “Africa in 2100”
- Artistic and technical excellence
- Clarity of vision and execution
The winner will be announced following the completion of the review and judging process.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can complete their submission through the official online portal.
For more details on the prize, eligibility, and guidelines:
🔗 Read more about the programme here
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
