These guidelines introduce the standards, objectives, and expectations of Bakandamiya Hikaya platform. They particularly give new writers everything they need to get started on the community with confidence.
Mission
Drawing from the localisation goal of Bakandamiya corporation, Hikaya exists to promote grassroot creativity and storytelling in both local and foreign languages, with initial focus on Hausa and English. Every story is expected, beside meeting literary and linguistic standards, to educate, entertain, critically uphold cultural dignity and challenge unrealistic status quos to transform the society positively.
What writers can expect
- You will receive editorial feedback.
- You will gain access to a structured publishing system.
- Your work will appear in a community that values clean, high-quality literary work.
- You will maintain ownership of your work.
What the platform expects
- Submit original writing.
- Follow the editorial guidelines.
- Maintain human and cultural ethics.
- Use clear language.
- Complete any series you begin.
Content moderation policy
Purpose
To maintain a learning environment that is literarily and intellectually grounded, morally and culturally responsible as well as transformationally oriented.
Prohibited content
- Explicit sexual scenes
- Graphic violence
- Mockery of religion
- Political propaganda
- Hate speech or insults
- False historical claims
- Plagiarism
- Sensational romance
- Dark psychological content that may harm readers
Review procedure
- Moderation team checks every submission.
- Suspicious sections are flagged.
- Writer may be asked for clarification or revision.
- Repeat or serious violations lead to rejection.
Moderation feedback and comments
- Insults or harassment are removed.
- Readers are encouraged to maintain professional tone.
- Writers are invited for clarification and discussion on certain information.
Enforcement
Editors may:
- Request changes
- Delay publication until clarifications are made.
- Reject a manuscript
- Suspend the writer’s account in extreme cases
Appeal
- Writer can professionally appeal an editorial decision by writing.
- The editorial team reviews and responds.
Getting Started
- Create your author profile.
- Read at least three top-performing stories to understand tone and structure.
- Prepare one polished submission as your introduction to the community.
- Follow the submission format carefully.
Recommended early goals
- Publish one short story or essay.
- Engage respectfully with readers.
- Respond to editorial feedback.
- Commit to a writing schedule if you plan a long series
Author profile template
Name
Real name or preferred pen name
Short biography
State your background in clear, simple sentences. Mention your interest in literature, education, or cultural heritage. Keep it concise but polished.
Writing focus
- Serialized novels
- Short stories
- Poetry
- Essays
- Folktale adaptations
- (Choose what applies.)
Themes you explore
Examples: family, identity, morality, tradition, courage, history, etc.
Languages
- Hausa
- English
- Both
Links (Optional)
List any official social or professional pages.
Final note
Now, to get started, download Hikaya app on Play Store or visit Hikaya website to register.