Faith Ndou
NYIKA, BIKITA-The 4th Great Get Together Book Launch hosted by the Essentials Book Writers Association (EBWA) recently turned into a vibrant celebration of youthful creativity with the Duma Budding Writers Club taking centre stage and captivating the audience with their remarkable literary talent.
Led by their dedicated mentor Shephard Chidima, the club continues to make waves in Zimbabwe’s literary circles.
Seven of its young writers have already published books under Essential Books Publishing Company, an achievement that not only showcases their talent but also highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing future authors.
The newly published writers and their titles include;
Nadine Mazari – Nhanga: A Special Place for Girls
Pauline Luwes – The Old Man in the Village
Rigel Chabata – Munashe the Clever Boy
Blessing Muzondireva – The Rude Servants
Tinovimbanashe Zivanemoyo – Life Was Not Easy Then
Delma Marange – Marara Imari
Moreblessing Madhura – No to Pollution and You Never Know Your Destiny
These books explore important themes such as cultural restoration, environmental responsibility, anti-drug awareness, loyalty and moral values, echoing the club’s mission to inspire young writers to use literature as a tool for positive change.
This year’s launch was graced by Brain Garusa as the guest of honor, held special significance. Garusa, who holds a Master’s in Literature and runs a well-established bookshop is celebrated for promoting works by leading authors across Zimbabwe. His presence added weight to EBWA’s ongoing efforts to uplift writers both young and old.
Established in 2022, EBWA continues to grow stronger under the leadership of founder and chairperson Aleck Kaposa whose passion for discovering and polishing literary talent has become the backbone of the organisation. Over the past four years, the association has created a vibrant platform for writers to mix, mingle, launch books, sell their work and share ideas.
The event was no exception. Writers from across Zimbabwe gathered to showcase their new and old titles but it was the Duma Primary School authors who stole the show. Accompanied by two teachers credited for their mentorship the young writers burst into poetry that electrified the entire venue.
“Before we knew it, they took the center stage and flew with everyone to their world of poetry. The whole place was shaken with the display of such talent,” said EBWA secretary Pamela Mufaro Phiri, who compiled the event report.
With such a powerful display of imagination and confidence, EBWA believes a bright future lies ahead for its members.
“I can foresee a great future for all writers under EBWA,” Phiri noted, praising both the organisation’s leadership and the unwavering support of parents who continue to encourage their children’s literary journeys.
The club’s call for the establishment of a community library also received strong support. Writers and parents alike emphasized the importance of promoting a strong reading culture, one that can unlock countless opportunities for young people.
As EBWA looks forward to launching more books every March, the Duma Budding Writers Club remains a shining example of how early mentorship, community involvement and passion can shape the writers’ future.
