The competition is open to published writers of poetry, prose, plays and novels, whose work is either written or translated in English. Previous winners have included Chika Unigwe from Nigeria and Nii Parkes from Ghana.

"We are looking for a writer who engages with contemporary themes that relate to Africa and the African diaspora, in a particularly powerful and original way and then to give them the luxury of escaping into a creative space where they can explore and research their thoughts fully. Ultimately Sylt Foundation’s Residency Program wishes to see a considerable growth in the narratives that can tell the story of this continent," says Indra Wussow, director of the Sylt Foundation.

In addition to an uninterrupted writing period, the residency also provides the chosen writer the opportunity to engage with other international writers and artists.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, 29 May, and must comprise an excerpt from a published work including details of the publisher, as well as a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae and profile, and two reference letters from literary professionals. All submissions must be in English.

The winner will be selected by a panel of literary experts under the chairmanship of Wussow and announced on Wednesday, 15 July.

The residency can be taken anytime from November 2015 until October 2016.

For further information, visit www.syltfoundation.com or direct any queries to [email protected].