55Voices for a Visa Free Africa Writing Competition 2019 is calling for applications. Every year thousands of African youth experience challenges as they travel across the African continent. This often translates to lost opportunities for work, business and leisure because of onerous visa processes. The writing competition is one of the platforms under the #VisaFreeAfrica Campaign that is aimed at putting a face to the large number of young Africans missing out on these opportunities. The competition invites you to share your story and spread awareness on the need for a #VisaFreeAfrica.

With the support of National Aviation Services (NAS), a leading aviation services provider, the Kigali Global Shapers and the Global shapers community are spreading their message for a #VisaFreeAfrica across the continent and beyond. The #VisaFreeAfrica petition is part of a continental effort to ease the visa procedures across the continent and promote freedom of movement.

Benefits

Winners will receive a cash prize of US$1,500 and furthermore, their article will get published.

Eligibility

• The contest is open to all African nationals residing in Africa between the ages of 18-35 years.
• The writing style should be narrative non-fiction based on a real-life experience you had while traveling from and to an African country. The story should start from a time when you were denied a Visa or how the process involved in getting a visa cost you an opportunity for study or work.
• The article should be up to 1,000 words
• You can choose to write in either English, French Portuguese or Arabic.

Applying

You need to submit the application form in order to get considerations.