ARTISTS AGAINST PIRACY!
Two celebrated Zimbabwean writers, Petina Gappah and Sue Nyathi, were recently honoured for the value their literary works carry for humanity. Gappah received the international 2026 Flora Nwapa Literary Society Award while Nyathi made us proud as her 2012 masterpiece The Polygamist is now adapted into television series, courtesy of Netflix.
Makorokoto,
Amphlope!
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NEXT
ISSUE OF THE WIN LITERARY NEWSLETTER IS COMING
SOON
EDITORIAL
Dr Suzanne Ondrus, an American poet, who facilitated first WIN online poetry workshop with WIN members
We welcome you all to an inspiring world of writers and writing!
Only four months into 2026 and Zimbabwean writers continue to inspire at home and abroad. Awesome, isn’t it?
Meanwhile, WIN has begun small to run some activities for its members this year. The aim is to empower members in various ways, and publishing and promoting their works.
Planned events include monthly online workshops/sessions with a selected facilitator on the Whatsapp platform. Out of these, we hope something tangible will come. On April 25, the first hour-long session focusing on poetry in English had the honour of being facilitated by Dr Suzanne Ondrus, an American poet and scholar.
While much will happen online, WIN hopes to hold some physical get-togethers during the year. Wishing to become a member? You can now subscribe and benefit knowledge, wisdom, skills and new opportunities. We do not promise much, but we will be a helpful friend along your writing journey. The annual subscription is only $5.00. To subscribe, contact +263 776 518 653, WIN executive board member and interim treasurer.
DR SUZANNE AMAZES POETS WITH THE ‘CONTAINER’ IDEA
A group of 26 poets who took part in the inaugural WIN online writing session with Dr Suzanne Ondrus learnt of a new exciting idea of putting their poems in different containers. The workshop, running under the theme ‘Putting Your Poems in Containers’, happened late afternoon on April 25, 2026, on the Whatsapp platform.
Although some poets couldn’t make it due to different circumstances, this indeed was stepping on new ground for the poets as they had re-tune the mind to think seriously about ‘containers’ they may have been taking for granted, such as a tool box, an empty cigarette container, for-sale ads, doctor’s orders, speed limit signs, clothing labels, etc.
“Containers are like the frames on pictures. When you change the frame of a picture, you change how the picture looks. Maybe you change the frame’s color, size, shape, type of wood, age…” said Dr Suzanne.
The exercises she gave participants included choosing a subject or topic to write on and then make a list of containers to put the poems in. There were beautiful poems shared.
The ‘container’ concept worked wonders in her 2022 poetry book Death of an Unvirtuous Woman.
“For my work the containers brought forth ways for different people to speak- from the sheriff to children. Also, since some containers are easily recognized by readers, these forms make your poems more accessible, as well as bring a dimension of reality,” she said.
Dr Suzanne’s second book is called Passion Seeds (2014) and it won the 3rd Vernice Quebodeaux ‘Pathways’ Poetry Prize. She has opened doors for the poets who want to share their works with her for critical feedback. Contact: suzanne.ondrus@gmail.com or visit her website www.suzanneondrus.com
The second WIN online workshop is expected in May and will tackle Shona poetry writing.
75TH ANNIVERSARY OF “DIANETICS: THE MODERN SCIENCE OF MENTAL HEALTH”
In commemoration of the 75th Anniversary year of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, the all-time bestselling book on the human mind written by L. Ron Hubbard, WIN commemorated the anniversary of the book with a special Letter of Appreciation to the author, Mr. L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics explains exactly how the mind works and identifies the source of these unwanted reactions and emotions. It outlines a clear, step-by-step method for reducing the emotional charge behind past stress, helping you feel happier, more certain and naturally confident. The hidden, negative influences will no longer control your responses or your life.
“That mind which understands itself is the mind of a free man.”
—L. Ron Hubbard, Author
When we speak of what L. Ron Hubbard has brought to the field of education, we are speaking of a very special commitment. For quite in addition to the founding of Dianetics and Scientology, he is also among the most widely read authors of all time.
https://www.dianetics.org/
https://www.lronhubbard.org/
NYONI SHORTLISTED FOR AN AUSTRALIAN WRITING PRIZE
Philani Nyoni speaking at a LitFest event some time ago
“Hello!
It is our great pleasure and honour to share ‘Sunday’, a piece by Philani A. Nyoni that was shortlisted for the Varnish Short Story Prize (Australia).
Enjoy and share!”
https://www.varnishlit.com/online/sunday
AFRICAN STORYTELLER IN LOVE WITH CULTURE AND FREEDOM
Zimbabwean writer Tsitsi Nomsa Ngwenya
Zimbabwean writer Tsitsi Nomsa Ngwenya’s mastery of the short story form has now consolidated alongside her novel writing.
Ngwenya has naturally handled the short story and novel with an illuminating syncing of lively characters in different places, cultures and different times, and the reader is enamoured by the mystery of the ‘unsaid’ that runs through the stories.
For the full article, CLICK HERE
SOUTH AFRICAN AUTHOR WINS WRITERS OF THE FUTURE PRIZE
FEAR OF FALSE COPYRIGHT PROPHETS GRIPS ZIM WRITERS
ZWA Chairperson, Monica Cheru
On March 17 the Zimbabwe Writers Association (ZWA) met at Aftercare Trust College in Harare to discuss ‘the role of writers in protecting and managing their rights’.
The meeting had particular focus on the collective management system in the country, and was attended by writers from ZWA and other organizations.
Long published writers in attendance said they were now done with the palaver about someone collecting their royalties on their behalf. While they acknowledged the importance of a collective management system, their past experience with similar CMOs which could not solve piracy was something still haunting them.
No wonder the presence of the new RROZ at the ZWA meeting stimulated an emotional debate about the newly introduced Reprographic Rights Organization of Zimbabwe.
Opinions are still divided in the writers’ community about the new RROZ. While, according to the organization’s CEO, Mr A Rimau, there already are some local writers who have registered with the RROZ, ZWA has recently issued out its statement on ‘Reprographic Rights Governance Concerns’ in which, among other things, it is calling for RROZ “to publicly clarify the basis of its representation, including publication of writers whose rights it claims to manage, the terms of that representation, and the governance framework under which those rights are administered”.
It is clear there’s a lot of ‘convincing’ and unity of purpose that needs to be done in the book sector if the collective management system is to completely work in Zimbabwe.
The accelerating rate of illegal photocopying of books in Zimbabwe has become a nightmare that has dimmed prospects of better economic returns for writers.
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THANK YOU FOR READING
We would like to congratulate writers who grabbed the gongs at the recently held 2026 National Arts Merit Awards ceremony in Harare. We're truly happy for you. May you continue to shine even beyond the applause. Keep writing!
Here's the list of winners (Literary Arts Category):
LITERARY AWARDS
Outstanding Fiction Book
My Affair with Misfortune by Sipho Mpofu, published by Elane Publishing Consultancy
Outstanding Non-Fiction Book
Gonan’ombe Retsika Nemarairo eChivanhu by Morden Tavarwisa, published by Miamuty
Outstanding Children’s Book
Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure by Gerald Shorayi, published by Essential Books Publishing Company
Outstanding First Published Work
The Killer Pastor by Entourade Usayi, published by Soar Publishers
KEEP WRITING!
Writers International Network Zimbabwe (WIN) has begun the year on a high note whilst strengthening its ties with other organizations that share the same literary arts passion.
Today, February 23, 2026, WIN presented a Letter of Appreciation to L. Ron Hubbard at his House in Alexandra Park, Harare. The presentation was witnessed by L. Ron Hubbard House Director, Asthra Maximov, WIN Founder and Director Beaven Tapureta and WIN Board Member Tinashe Muchuri.
L. Ron Hubbard was a prolific writer, authoring about 300 short stories, novels, and novelettes. WIN recognizes his great works and proudly presented the recognition to him.
Commenting after receiving the Letter, Asthra Maximov said the Alexandra Park L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site looks forward to continued collaboration with WIN.
“The Alexandra Park L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site is very happy to collaborate with WIN, working together to spread the good works of L. Ron Hubbard. We look forward to working further with them, consolidating our collaborative efforts,” she said.
WIN Board Member Tinashe Muchuri highlighted the importance of legacy-building such as was done by L. Ron Hubbard and also wishes the collaboration between WIN and the L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site will benefit new writers.
“Life is a continuous journey. It does not end. It goes beyond the last footprints on Earth. New footprints develop as the legacy travels far and wide. L. Ron Hubbard is an exemplary figure, whose legacy collaborates with WIN-Zim in a journey to sharpen the pen and write words that eventually live forever,” said Muchuri.
The Alexandra Park L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site, situated at 31 John Plagis Avenue, has attracted individuals and organizations from different fields in Zimbabwe. For more information about visits and tours, contact Asthra on +263 78 592 7990 or email alexandrapark@lronhubbard.org
“Give your reader a chance to wonder for a while about the final outcome.”
– quote from the ‘Suspense’ article written by L. Ron Hubbard
We are happy for writers, poets, publishers making the 2026 NAMA nominees list in the LITERARY ARTS CATEGORY. Congratulations!
LITERARY AWARDS CATEGORY
Outstanding Fiction Book
Iluba lika ntunjambila by Polite Sibanda Published by Pre-dawn Publishers
My Affair with Misfortune by Sipho Mpofu Published by Elane Publishing Consultancy
The Toppling by Cynthia Rumbidzai Marangwanda Published by Carnelian Heart Publishing Ltd
Outstanding Non-Fiction Book
Gonan'ombe Retsika Namararamiro eChivanhu by Morden Tavarwisa Published by Miamuty
Kurasika MuAfurika by Rumbidzai Caroline Kahari Published by Essential Books Publishing Company
The Essentials to Faithful Living by Michael H. Nyahwera Published by Beyond Today
Outstanding Children’s Book
Mukanyawashe's Big Adventure by Gerald Shorayi Published by Essential Books Publishing Company
The adventures of Dafi and Rize by Wadzanai Tadhuvana published by Kunda kids Publishers
The old river woman by Shakemore Dirani Published by Essential Books Publishing
Company
Special Mention:
The exciting story of Chipo the bird by Jean Taanashe Botso Published by Essential
Books Publishing Company
Munashe The Clever Boy by Rigel Chabata Published by Essential Books Publishing Company
Outstanding First Published Work
Hanzi Huchi Hwenduri – Kubva Mukatikati by Ushehwedu Kufakurinani Published by Carnelian Heart Publishing Limited
The Killer Pastor by Entourade Usayi Published by Soar Publishers
Zvamuri Ndaimbova Zvandiri Muchava by Josiah Muchada Published by Sahara Publishers
HERE ARE NOMINEES IN OTHER CATEGORIES
VISUAL ARTS
Outstanding Female Visual Artist
Amanda Shingirai Mushate - Chimoro neHukoshwa Part 1
Sabina Mutsvati - Ndishonongoreiwo
Shamila Aasha - Healing Alchemy
Outstanding Male Visual Artist
Confidence Zinyeka - Intimate conversation
Pardon Mapondera - Dotipaiwo Mwenje
Tinotenda Chivhinge - Nonsense Hit Song
Outstanding Upcoming Visual Artist
Claire Munjoma - Shanduko
Tadiwanashe Joel Mafuta - Dismas
Crystal Vimbainashe Beseni - Maps of everything
Outstanding Exhibition
Ndishonongoreyiwo (Solo Exhibition) by Sabina Mutsvati, Curated by Fadzai Veronica Muchemwa
Perfection is not always reality (Solo Exhibition) by Tinotenda Chivhinge, curated by Doris Kamupira
CHEUKA Harare Art Fair curated by Laura Ganda and Merilyn Mushakwe
THEATRE AWARDS
Outstanding Actor
Cadrick Msongelwa as Squealer/StoryTeller/Mr. Jones in Zi Animal Farm
Elroy Takunda Musiiwa as Benjamin/Storyteller One in Zi Animal Farm
Ronald Sigeca as Prophet in These Humans are Sick
Outstanding Actress
Chidochashe Joanne Tenga as Bope in Can We Talk?
Tsungirirai Chenjerai as Snowball/Clover/Storyteller in Zi Animal Farm
Thandolwenkosi Nkiwane as Multi-characters in Ipi Ntombi
Outstanding Theatrical Production
In search of a king by Celebration Church
Can we talk by Almasi Collaborative Arts
Zi Animal farm by Savanna Trust
Outstanding Director
Daniel Dueschle - In search of a king
Leonard Matsa - Can We Talk?
Sandra Braddock - Ipi Ntombi
Outstanding Playwright
Tatenda Mutyambizi - These Humans Are Sick
Batsirai Chigama - Can We Talk?
FILM & TELEVISION AWARDS
Outstanding Actor
Calvin Madula as Stan “SK” Khumalo in High School Diaries
Charles Kamara as Mike in Nhai Maiguru
Leroy Siyafa as James in God Sleeps on Sundays
Outstanding Actress
Wizzy Mangoma as Chirongoma in God Sleeps on Sundays
Charity Dlodlo as Maria in Forget Me Not
Natasha Dlamini as Beauty in Totem
Outstanding Music Video
Kuno by Jah Prayzah Directed by Vusa Hlatshwayo aka Director Blaqs and Davis Hanzu aka
Director Dave
Fake Love by Winky D Directed by Tawanda Sibotshiwe aka Jusa Dementor
Nguva NdeyaMwari by Dorcas Moyo Directed by Hastings Chiromo aka Mr. Hasty
Outstanding Screen Production (Television)
High School Diaries by John Mabuyane
Magweja by Dexter Fundire
Love Across the Ocean by Willy Makumire Lilly
Outstanding Screen Production (Short Film)
A Future Untold by Prosper Kunyetu
God Sleeps on Sundays by Naishe Nyamubaya
Totem by Nicole Panashe Dzenga
Outstanding Screen Production (Full Length)
Loved Out by Tendai Nyeke
Dilemma by Joe Njagu
Mwana Wangu by Nakai Beauty Tsuro
DANCE AWARDS
Outstanding Dance Group/Production
Salt 'n' Light Dance Company in Still Salty
Diamond Girls in Unseen Stars
MnM Dance Factory in African Sunrise
Outstanding Female Dancer
Mandisa Maseko aka Storm zw in The Crown Project
Celine Madziva in Celine’s work
Lisa Tanaka Magwenzi aka Lissa Tanaka in Lissa Tanaka
Outstanding Male Dancer
Prince Mbisa aka Amazing Prince in The Rise of Amazing Prince
Lawrence Sirewo aka Flexxy Smith in Big Brother Mzansi
Shadreck Moyo aka Shaddy Stiffler in The Cowboys
Outstanding Choreographer
Tanaka Machikicho in Diamond Girls
Celine Madzivai in Celine
Terrence Kapesa in Salt & Light Dance Company
SPOKEN WORD AWARDS
Outstanding Stand-Up Comedian
Frank Chirisa
Mbongeni Ignatious
Nigel Maritinyu aka Nijo the Slick Pastor
Outstanding Poet
Obert Dube
Sithandazile Dube
Thaluso Moyo aka Thaluso the Poet
MUSIC AWARDS
Outstanding Female Musician
Sharon Manyonganise Cherayi
Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa aka Nisha Ts
Ashleigh Angel Moyo aka Shashl
Outstanding Male Musician
Michael Mahendere aka Minister Michael Mahendere
Emegy Chizanga aka Freeman HKD
Mukudzeyi Mukombe aka Jah Prayzah
Outstanding Breakthrough Musician
Nyasha Emmanuel Dedza aka Junior Spragga
Atenda Chingaira aka Atenda Chinx
Shone Qongo aka Shone
Outstanding Music Group
The Redeemed Family
VeRutendo
Joyful Praise
Outstanding Song
Ruzhowa by Mukudzeyi Mukombe aka Jah Prayzah
Admire Kadembo by Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa aka Nisha Ts
Too Much by Carrington S. Chiwadza aka Nutty O
Outstanding Album
The Notebook by Emegy Chizanga aka Freeman HKD
Ndini Mukudzeyi by Mukudzeyi Mukombe aka Jah Prayzah
The Woman King – Gender iih by Anisha Tashinga Shonhiwa aka Nisha Ts
FASHION AWARDS
Outstanding Male Designer
Rangarirai Kenias - Raengah
Brightman Dlamini - Tocar Narrations
Ishmael Tsakatsa - Zargue’sia
Outstanding Female Fashion Designer
Nomakhosazana Khanyile Ncube - A Tribe Called Zimbabwe
Danayi Madondo - Haus of Stone
Yolanda Ngwenya - Bakhar
Outstanding Contributor to the Fashion Industry
Amanda Mutangadura - AM Model Management
Priscilla Chigariro - Zimbabwe Fashion Week
Joyce Chimanye - ZUVVA
DIGITAL ARTS AWARDS
Outstanding Female Social Media Content Creator
Blessing Nashe - Nashe the Plug
Gracia Bvute - Pot Tradition
Tariro Sarudzai Mharapara - Butterphly
Outstanding Male Social Media Content Creator
Marvellous Ngongoro - African Finder
Kelvin Biriot
Prince Sivalo Mahlangu - Magriza Made me cook
Outstanding Podcast
Zigo Podcast
Pass and Move Podcast
The Ollah 7 Podcast
Outstanding Social Media Skits
Leroy T. Zaware aka Comic Elder
Sean Khoza aka Code Red Studios - Tokoloshi
Ronald Chimombe aka Thugga Thugga
SPECIAL AWARDS
Outstanding Artist in the Diaspora
Bhekinkosi Mabhena aka DJ Nitefreak– Music Producer/DJ - France & Spain
Luckson Chikutu aka Manluckerz – Musician - USA
Chrispen Nyathi- Film Actor - South Africa
Promoter of the Year
Stratosphere Events (Fiesta Fiesta Zimbabwe) Owned by Charles Ayisa
Odyssey Entertainment (Kadoma Music Festival) Owned by Prince Mharadze
Ngoma Nehosho (Jacaranda Music Festival) Owned by Walter Wanyanya
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
Principal Chigwida aka Prince Chigwida
Leroy T. Zaware aka Comic Elder
Wallace Chirumiko aka Winky D
Mukudzeyi Mukombe aka Jah Prayzah
Michelle Moyo aka Ritz Mcleish
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(Recently published in the Munyori Literary Journal)
Professor William Chigidi (above)
In this interview, Prof Chigidi speaks about various important matters regarding the Zimbabwean theatre scene, and his journey as a writer. To read full conversation, CLICK HERE.
Countdown to the 24th NAMAs
In Zimbabwe, anticipation is getting intense in the air as the 24th NAMA (National Arts Merit Awards) draws closer and closer. Come Saturday, February 28, 2026, artists and arts stakeholders will come together at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) to celebrate extraordinary talent from the motherland.
Our hands are itching to clap for you, especially you in our amazing book world. Remember, it is no race for winners and losers, no, but all are winners who have remained strong, fearless and never gave up creating!
Therefore, go, be fearless, and shine.
♡♡♡♡
