The 1952 Africa Foundation, in partnership with the HOW Foundation, has officially announced the shortlist for the 2025 Chizi Wigwe Prize for African Futurism. This distinguished $15,000 award celebrates visionary African artists who boldly explore the theme “Africa in 2100.”
Designed to spotlight the power of imagination, the annual prize empowers emerging and established creatives across the continent to envision alternative African futures and share compelling, future-facing narratives. By championing African Futurism, the prize amplifies African voices and position them at the forefront of global cultural conversations.
This year’s shortlisted artists bring a fresh wave of innovation, deeply rooted in African identity yet fearlessly forward-thinking. Their work not only reimagines Africa’s future but also challenges dominant narratives, presenting a continent defined by resilience, creativity, and visionary leadership.
The 2025 Chizi Wigwe Prize Shortlist:
- Wibabara Marie Ange – Artistic Director (Rwanda)
- Anthony Azekwoh – Multidisciplinary Artist (Nigeria)
- Jacque Njeri – Futurist Artist & Designer (Kenya)
- Bayo Hassan Bello – Artist, Writer & Curator (Nigeria)
- Godisamang Khunou – Director & Producer (South Africa)
- J.C Muyonjo – Interdisciplinary Artist (Uganda)
- Elfreda Dali – Multidisciplinary Artist (Nigeria)
The Chizi Wigwe Prize honors the legacy of the late Chizi Wigwe, a former board member of the 1952 Africa Foundation and a devoted champion of African cultural excellence. The 1952 Africa Foundation extends its impact beyond the prize through a variety of creative programs. These include artist residencies, funding grants, and development initiatives that support emerging talent and connect local artists with global platforms.
