At Iko Africa, we believe African writers are deserving of improved visibility and greater recognition. Here is a selection of stories we loved this week.

Hi everyone, 

Perceptions hinder us. From religion to culture and families, we are told to be a certain way and live a certain way, even when, deep down, we may feel they’re wrong. 

In “I Went to Church Today”, a story about unresolved feelings, Betini Udo explores religion’s weight. “I open my eyes to see it is not me they are looking for,” she writes “God is not looking for me today. There is another girl on the floor - the ushers fight to hold her down. They do not care that her head might break the concrete floor. Instead, they worry that more people might catch a glimpse of her blue lace panties.” A poignant read everyone here at HQ loved. 

Sophia Obianamma Gabriel’s “A Protection Scheme” is a mellow story about simple actions and their overarching consequences told through the eyes of a girl and her mango tree. 

What do we call home? Nnacheta Anulika writes of the journey of a warrior who wants to belong, and of a people who only perceive greatness as one thing; strength. "Home" is a flash fiction piece set in Kampala; it is a treat, with strong prose and intense pacing that is a feast for the senses. 

Praise Hena’s “Janet” tells the story of a quiet love that exists out of sight. For every moment in the present, we are drawn into aching for the memories and the earnest longing for things we should not feel. 

What have you been reading on Iko this week? What’s moved you recently? What’s changed your perceptions or shed more light on them? Let us know in the responses.

Thank you for reading,

The Iko Editorial Team.