Co-sponsored by Macmillan Education and Picador, the prize will be presented to authors of previously unpublished fictional works in English. The four prize categories cover children's literature, adult fiction and a special prize for best new children's writer. The competition is scheduled to be held every two years and judged by an independent panel comprising distinguished authors in the fields of child and adult fiction. Open to nationals, naturalized citizens or those born in any of the African countries, entries for all awards will be assessed on the originality of the work, the quality of the writing and the work's appeal to the intended audience.
Entrants are free to pick the theme or genre of their choice.
Winners of the children's literature awards and the special award will have their work published by Macmillan and presented at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair in 2002. BBC African Productions will also be broadcasting a selection of the winning entries early next year.