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. She is known for fiction, poetry, short story collections, and contributions to educational publications used in East African schools. Her work often explores themes related to society, identity, and the human experience.
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. She pursued a Bachelor of Science in microbiology at Kenyatta University before transitioning into full-time writing and literary work.
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. 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.
Hussein also works as an editor and public speaker, often emphasising the power of storytelling for cultural reflection and social change. 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.
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.
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
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