Caine Prize Clears Zimbabwean Author of AI Writing Claims, Introduces New Rules
HARARE – The Caine Prize for African Writing has exonerated Zimbabwean author Simbarashe Kundizeza over claims that artificial intelligence was used to produce his winning story. The literary organisation has nevertheless introduced additional safeguards aimed at preventing generative AI from being used in future submissions.
Speaking on Thursday, Kundizeza said he was “relieved” that allegations published by The Atlantic magazine had been rejected.
“It was not necessary in the first place, but I am happy to put all this behind me and continue with my writing journey,” he said.
The controversy prompted a broader discussion across social media, including concerns that Black writers may be facing disproportionate scrutiny when accused of using AI.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Caine Prize said its internal investigation had brought the issue to a close. The review involved “rigorous” interviews with Kundizeza as well as an examination of draft metadata.
“We feel the evidence is clear and have made the decision that Simbarashe’s award stands,” said Ellah Wakatama, chair of the Caine Prize. “We look forward to awarding as well as celebrating with Simbarashe in Zimbabwe before the end of the year.”
Kundizeza received the $10,000 Caine Prize for African Writing in October for “The Blue Fighter.” The Atlantic later reported that the AI-detection service Pangram had flagged the story as entirely AI-generated, apart from an excerpt taken from a poem by another writer.
Kundizeza rejected the accusation, maintaining that he wrote the story himself. The work explores family bonds and financial hardship, drawing on his family’s experiences during Zimbabwe’s prolonged economic crisis.
He explained that “aspects of the story, including characters and the setting,” were inspired by events from his own life, calling the piece “a deeply personal story about economic collapse and familial relationships.”
While confirming that the award would remain with Kundizeza, the Caine Prize also unveiled measures designed to improve protections against generative AI in literary competitions. Publishers submitting stories and all shortlisted authors will now be required to provide AI-use declarations, supported by a new “AI use policy for guidance.”
