CHIMURENGA
Initially packaged as a hard copy magazine when it was founded in 2002, Chimurenga has expanded to all sorts of projects. From its sister magazine Chronic, to an online shop and library, the team is dedicated to disseminating literature and literary artefacts in innovative ways. Drawing on the work of some of Africa’s best authors, analysts and critical thinkers, it is an incredible resource for those au fait with works from the continent, as well as novices.
Visit the site at chimurenga.co.za
LONG STORY SHORT
A brand-new online digital archive of live readings, writers’ podcasts and celebrities reading African works. The project was launched with a reading by actress Hlubi Mboya (pictured) and the latest one is Chibundu Onuzo’s Going Home, read by actress Abena Ayivor. As the team continues to expand and share its work, the hope is that the podcasts will become a tool to address local literacy issues, using African literature.
Visit the Long Story Short – AfricanLiterature page on Facebook
BRITTLE PAPER
This is a yummy literary treat.
From fan-fiction remixes of Chimamanda Adichie’s Americanah to lively debates about Africa’s best writers, the site is packed with resources for casual readers, scholars and even those who cannot resist a quotable quote or two. The site is beautiful and supereasy to navigate. It is unlike many other literary websites, which can be a little clunky.
Visit the site at brittlepaper.com
AFRICA IN WORDS
Of all the literary websites, Africa in Words is probably the most serious – and this is definitely not a bad thing. It features calls for academic papers and rigorous philosophical debates, and goes well beyond the realm of literature to pursue content related to art, film, history and all things cultural. Despite being founded in the UK, it has a distinctive commitment to cutting edge content that serves African literature.
Visit the site at africainwords.com
KWANI?
Founded by the charismatic Kenyan author Binyavanga Wainaina, and currently led by Caine prize winner Billy Kahora, Kwani? is a magazine that continues to expand its reach to events, public readings and lectures for students. The site itself is an incredibly rich and delectable resource, pulling together all the best of the Kwani? output. From information on their upcoming open mike sessions to an archive of publications, it’s a well-oiled web machine.
Visit the site at kwani.org