EDITORIAL
Writer Tendai C Matiza (left) and renowned musician Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave at the launch of the former’s new book Kukura Kwangu (scroll down for more details about the launch)
We warmly welcome you all to our bubbling newsletter. So much activity happening in the local writing and publishing arena, and also in real life. The famous English poet John Donne once said, ‘...any man's death diminishes me, because I am part of humanity.”
We echo his words, following the sad loss of a well-known businessman and philanthropist Sir Wicknell Chivayo, who died in a helicopter accident on September 30, 2026. His name shall be remembered in the arts industry (including literary arts) - and other fields - in which he made financial and material donations to some artists. Seeing more new books being hatched by Zimbabwean writers in different genres is wonderful. We wish the books well in their different chosen journeys. Enjoy!
ZIMBABWEAN WRITER WINS 2026 CAINE PRIZE
Zimbabwean writer Simbarashe Steyn Kundizeza (above) is the winner of the 2026 Caine Prize for African Writing for his short story ‘The Blue Fighter’.
CONGRATULATIONS!
‘KUKURA KWANGU’ BOOK LAUNCH CELEBRATES ZIMBABWEAN INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE
By Marcia Chavunduka – Publisher
Author Tendai C. Matiza giving an inspiring speech at the recent launch of her book 'Kukura Kwangu '
The much-anticipated official launch of Kukura Kwangu, a book by Tendai C. Matiza, popularly known as Sister Original News, was held on Saturday, 26 September 2026, at the Monomotapa Hotel in Harare, Zimbabwe. The memorable evening brought together authors, publishers, literary enthusiasts, family, friends and distinguished guests to celebrate Zimbabwean literature and the importance of preserving indigenous languages.
The event was graced by the Guest of Honour, Honourable D. Svuure, who delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the importance of literature, culture and the preservation of Zimbabwe's indigenous languages. His presence added significance to an occasion dedicated to celebrating Zimbabwean storytelling and literary expression.
Author Tendai C. Matiza, aka Sister Original News, also gave a heartfelt speech, sharing the inspiration behind Kukura Kwangu and the journey that led to the book. Her words reflected her passion for storytelling and her desire to encourage readers to embrace their identity, language, and to persevere against all odds.
As the book's editor and publisher, I also addressed the gathering. I spoke about the publishing journey and the importance of producing books that celebrate African voices and make indigenous languages an important part of Zimbabwe's literary landscape.
Among the special guests who graced the occasion was renowned musician Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave, whose presence added further star power and excitement to the celebration.
The launch was more than a book event; it was a celebration of language, culture, identity and Zimbabwean creativity. Kukura Kwangu stands as a meaningful contribution to the growth of indigenous-language literature and demonstrates the power of Zimbabwean authors to tell stories that resonate with their communities and beyond.
Kukura Kwangu is available for purchase from Sister Original News, MC Publishers, Innov 8 Bookshop branches, and online from Payhip.
Congratulations to Tendai C. Matiza on this remarkable milestone and to everyone who helped make the Kukura Kwangu book launch a resounding success.
Scenes from the launch
All photos by MC Publishers
Author Tendai C. Matiza aka Sister Original News & Publisher Marcia Chavunduka
Kukura Kwangu Book Launch Group Photo
Honourable Davison Svuure giving the keynote speech
L. RON HUBBARD LANDMARKK SITE HOSTS SECOND BUSINESS SEMINAR
By Winzim
Bryan Frank, leading the Saturday business seminar
The 2nd free business seminar hosted by the L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site was held on Saturday afternoon, October 10, 2026 with a group of participants drawn from different professions and business backgrounds.
The seminar, delivered by consultant Bryan Frank, dealt with 'Tools for Salvaging a Business' and how to keep the administrative graph rising.
However, Bryan was flexible, not restricted to business only but also had valuable advice for not-for-profit organizations and other projects, mostly pertaining to matters of administration.
Insightful was Bryan's pick from the administrative tools hierarchy, saying that most businesses fail because of lack of policy. The absence of policy, in any business, he said, leads to the hard-work-low-income scenario which is but an indication that the natural laws of administration have been violated.
He said that having a goal/purpose is not enough but putting into practice the Administrative Tools, which L. Ron Hubbard developed through experience, will get any business or organisation to the next level.
Participants new to the L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site also enjoyed a tour of the Heritage Site before the start of the seminar. Below are details if you want to get more information about the Landmark Site.
Contact:
Name: Director Asthra Maximov
Organization: Alexandra Park L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site
Address: New Alexandra Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
Email: alexandrapark@lronhubbard.org
Website: https://www.lronhubbard.org
POET MSIPA INTRODUCES BAG OF HIS NEW TITLES
By Winzim
Some of Msipa’s new publications
Writer, performance poet and journalist Edwin Muketiwa Msipa aka Black Mampara, recently issued out about 11 books at once, two of which are about the late businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo.
Speaking to Winzim, in the emotional background of Chivayo’s tragic death with which the new books coincided, Msipa said it had been his wish to launch several books once.
“It has been my desire to release many books and songs at once,” he said.
About his ardent admiration for Chivayo, Msipa said it was Chivayo’s marriage that stood out exemplary, though the late businessman was mostly known for his giving and other things.
“Sir Wicknell Chivayo's demise touched me. Death pains the living. Just like any family member who passes on, Sir Wicknell is no exception, his death pained many. We will miss his statement, 'Go and see Victor!' One other thing which many of us overlook about him was his love for his wife, the late Lulu. I think if all of us should take a leaf off that marriage, the idea of sleeping with a small adze and/or an axe under the mattress or pillow in domestic disputes would go,” said Msipa.
The new batch includes other biographical books about prominent Zimbabwean personalities such as President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Phillip Chiyangwa, Mthuli Ncube, Strive Masiyiwa, some children’s books and a textbook.
As a teacher by profession, Msipa believes that documenting what is happening will save future generations from being served with a wrong narrative.
“In my non -fictional works, I am writing for someone to understand yesterday's, today's and tomorrow's everyday people. I am documenting what is happening in terms of development,” Msipa said.
The poet's interests are expanding. He also has ventured into music together with his son Tawanda. Furthermore, he hopes to launch a publishing house called Black Mampara Publishers.
“I would like to continue working with children and young people in making sure that they read books by Zimbabweans for Zimbabweans. They need to read stories by us and they should also write theirs. A new publishing house, 'Black Mampara Publishers' is still in its infancy and is there for aspiring and established writers. Books must fill our libraries at home and at school. The Ministry of Education for Primary and Secondary Schools and the Ministry of Art must be funded to buy books for schools. Schools must have grants for buying books. I call upon School Development Committees to consider buying books for their learners,” said Msipa.
Titles of some of his new releases are: ‘Grade 7 Composition Handbook’, ‘Ufuza Hwadhongi’, ‘Mota YaSichuwesheni naSichupeti’, ‘Chivayo: Patriot, Believer, Giver’, ‘Wicknell Chivayo: A Millionaire, Myths and Miracles’, ‘Munhumutapa’, ‘Emmerson Mnangagwa: The People’s Leader’, ‘100 Heroes: A House Built By All People’, ‘Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo’, ‘Phillip Chiyangwa: Power, Property and Politics’, ‘Mthuli Moyo: A Man Who Brought Smiles in Cowdray Park Area’.
Undoubtedly, such new offerings kindle readers’ curiosity. Titles alone don't fill up the basket. Getting the book or books is wiser, wisest to read because only after reading can one begin to understand or misunderstand the author. Msipa can be contacted on +263718782302 or alternatively via email blackmampara74@gmail.com
For Lulu and Wicky — An Eulogy
By Black Mampara, The Poet (2026)
They Gave
I did not get to say goodbye,
the door closed too sudden, too soon.
One moment you were here with us,
the next, you were gone with the afternoon.
But what you left behind still speaks,
louder than death ever can.
You gave — not just with your hands,
but with your whole heart, like a man of God.
To the Vapositori in white,
you carried cloth and kindness.
To the united churches,
you carried love without division.
Lulu — gentle soul,
Wicky — faithful heart,
you taught us that giving is praying,
that love is the truest art.
We are devastated, yes,
we weep because we loved you deep.
But we will not let your giving die,
we will keep what you taught us to keep.
Go well, Lulu and Wicky.
Rest in the peace you gave to others.
Your journey was short and sudden,
but your love will live in all of us.
TANAKA CHIDORA RELEASES A SHONA POETRY COLLECTION
Released on September 30, 2026
Established writer Memory Chirere (above) passionately reading Tanaka Chidora’s new poetry collection ‘Kasi Wogwarazve Kahi?’ Also, watch the video Chirere reading 'the poem 'Mazheti' below.
For more info, contact Chidora on +265 983386073
Watch video: Memory Chirere reading from Chidora’s new book
PROFESSOR FRANCIS MATAMBIROFA TAKES READERS TO ‘THOSE BISCUITS YEARS’
Prof Francis Matambirofa - author of the newly published memoir ‘Those Biscuits Years!’ You can get in touch with him. Contact: +263 772398148
POET MAMBO GURAMATUNHU ANNOUNCES ARRIVAL OF ‘BVUTE’
Mambo displays the front cover of his new book 'Bvute'
“I am humbled and thrilled to officially announce the launch of my latest heritage poetry collection BVUTE. BVUTE is more than just a book; it is a bridge between our traditional wisdom and modern identity. In a world where many believe that success means living like VaRungu, BVUTE stands boldly as a testament to the sweetness, depth, and richness of our native Shona language, culture and identity. It is a deep exploration of Chivanhu, Tsika ne Magariro, echoing the timeless African spirit of Ubuntu (I am because we are.) A huge, heartfelt shout-out to our overall sponsor and partner SAHWIGATE and SAHWIRA EVENTS AND LIFESTYLE (SEAL)! Your immense support ensures that our culture and heritage are celebrated on the grand stage they deserve. Without you, this legacy would not be possible.” – Poet Mambo Guramatunhu
OFFICIAL BOOK LAUNCH
Date: Thursday, 13 November 2026
Venue: Sahwira Events and Lifestyle (SEAL), 1557 Cnr Watts Road, Ardbennie, Harare (along Simon Mazorodze)
Time: 6pm to 9pm
Tickets will be available soon. Contact: +263 77 960 9900
or Email: ngonidzasheparadza93@gmail.com
FRESH ON THE SCENE
BEYOND OUR BORDERS
CANADIAN POET WINS 2026 NOBEL PRIZE IN LITERATURE
☆☆☆
Coming soon: Well-known poet, Shona editor, writer and journalist Tinashe Muchuri talks about his recent visit to China. And so much more about things literary.
Don't miss!
THANK YOU!
