2024 Essay Writing Competition

We are excited to announce an essay competition for college students focusing on cross-border business. This competition aims to explore the regulations and challenges facing local communities engaged in cross-border trade. We invite students to share their insights, propose solutions, and contribute to the dialogue on how to improve cross-border business environments.

Competition Details:

Prizes:

1. First Prize: 300k
2. Second Prize: 200k
3. Third Prize: 100k

Eligibility Criteria

• Enrollment: Participants must be currently enrolled in a college or university.
• Age: Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 30.
• Original Work: Essays must be the original work of the participant and must not have been previously published or submitted for any other competition.
• Language: Essays must be written in English.
• Geographic Scope: Participants must be reside in Tanzania, Kenya or Uganda
• One Entry per Participant: Each participant is allowed to submit only one essay.
• Word Count: Maximum 900 Words.
• Submission Deadline:18/6/2024

Essay Topics

Analyzing Cross-Border Conflicts and Their Impact on Trade in East Africa

Background:

East Africa has a rich history of economic cooperation and cultural exchange, but it has also faced significant challenges due to cross-border conflicts between nations. These conflicts can arise from a variety of causes, including territorial disputes, competition for natural resources, political differences, lack of trade regulation standardization, and ethnic tensions. Such conflicts not only strain diplomatic relations but also have profound impacts on cross-border trade, disrupting economic activities and affecting the livelihoods of millions.

For this essay, you are required to choose a specific case study of a conflict between two East African nations in the last five years, e.g., Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda, etc.

Students should address the following points in their essays:

• Causes of the Conflict: Provide an analysis of the root causes of the conflict between the two chosen nations.
• Effects on Trade: Discuss the specific ways in which the conflict has impacted cross-border trade.
• Potential Solutions: Propose potential solutions to restore and enhance trade relations between the conflicted nations.

Judging Criteria
Essays will be judged based on:

• Relevance to the Topic: How well the essay addresses the chosen topic.
• Research and Analysis: Depth of research and quality of analysis.
• Originality: Unique perspectives and innovative ideas.
• Clarity and Structure: Clear organization and logical flow of ideas.
• Writing Quality: Grammar, punctuation, and overall writing style.

Submission Guidelines

• All essays must be original and unpublished.
• Include a cover page with your name, college, and contact information.
• Essays should be typed in Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced.
• Submit your essay as a PDF,  CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT

We look forward to reading your insightful essays and learning from your perspectives on cross-border business!

For any inquiries, please contact muoki@libertysparks.org.  

Good luck to all participants!