Abstract

Presented by the Centre of African Studies & University of Cambridge Eastern African Society

Billy Kahora is one of Kenya’s current leading writers. His short story, ‘The Gorilla’s Apprentice’, which engages with Kenya’s 2007 post-election violence, was shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing in 2014. Billy was also a scriptwriter for the acclaimed film, Nairobi Half Life (2012). As Managing Editor of the Kwani Trust based in Nairobi, Billy is responsible for much of Kenya’s recent literary output. Billy gave the plenary lecture at the African Studies Association UK’s 2014 conference, and has been a frequent guest speaker at the Royal African Society’s annual literary festival, Africa Writes.

The Centre of African Studies and the Eastern African Society are looking forward to welcoming Billy to Cambridge. The event will begin with a Q&A with Billy, led by Rachel Knighton, a PhD student in the Faculty of English. The audience will then have an opportunity to listen to Billy read from his work, followed by a chance for discussion.

Karibuni!