Munira Hussein
Munira Hussein | |
|---|---|
 Munira in Morocco 2022 | |
| Citizenship | Kenyan |
| Education | BSc Microbiology |
| Alma mater | Kenyatta University |
| Occupations | writer, editor |
| Website | munirahussein |
Munira Hussein, also known as The Contemporary Nomad, is a Kenyan writer, author, and editor.[1][2] She is known for fiction, poetry, short story collections, and contributions to educational publications used in East African schools.[2] Her work often explores themes related to society, identity, and the human experience.[2][3]
Early Life and education
Hussein was born in Marsabit County in Northern Kenya, and grew up in a culturally diverse and conservative environment, which later influenced her writing.[2] She pursued a Bachelor of Science in microbiology at Kenyatta University before transitioning into full-time writing and literary work.[1]
Career
Hussein began her creative journey by writing at a young age, beginning with a 200-page handwritten book during her final year in high school.[3] She has published multiple works spanning short stories, poetry, and educational texts. Her books and co-authored work include Unfit for Society, Through the Journey of Hope, and When a Stranger Called.[2]
Hussein also works as an editor and public speaker, often emphasising the power of storytelling for cultural reflection and social change.[1][4] In 2022, Hussein alongside Gladwell Pamba and Dennis Mugaa won a manuscript contest put together by Concordia University as part of the International Literary Seminars (ILS) Kenya.[5]
Themes and style
Hussein's writing typically explores social issues, personal identity, and the experience of growing up in Northern Kenya, blending emotional depth with sharp observation of societal norms.[2][6]
Selected Literary works
- Seeing Our Sisters (co-authored anthology, 2024)
- Highland Cactus (c. 2022–2023)
- When a Stranger Called (2020)
- A Curve of Darkness (2019)
- Unfit for Society (2018)
- Through the Journey of Hope (poetry anthology)
- Pace in Poetry (poetry anthology)
Educational publications
- English Literacy Grade 1
- English Literacy Grade 2
- English Literacy Grade 3[2]
Awards and recognition
- International Literary Seminars Fellowship (2022)
- Shortlisted for the Writing Gender Residency, Huza Press and Goethe-Institut Kigali (2021)
- Shortlisted for the African Writers Award (2018)
See also
References
- 1 2 3 "About Munira Hussein". MuniraHussein.com. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kasaine, Lesalon (18 October 2021). "Unfit for Society: Munira Hussein's book inspired by stories of Marsabit is our book of the month". Qazini. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
- 1 2 Ruthi, William (15 August 2018). "Young writer pours heart out in book". Daily Nation. Nation Media Group. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
- ↑ "Book Review: Unfit for Society". The Star. 10 June 2019. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
- ↑ "Concordia professors bring literary workshops to Kenya to support up-and-coming writers". Concordia University News. Concordia University. 2 February 2023. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
- ↑ Maina, Wanjiku (31 December 2018). "By the Book: Munira Hussein". Daily Nation. Nation Media Group. Retrieved 20 January 2026.
External links
Official website: https://www.munirahussein.com