The Kalemba Short Story Prize is awarded annually to the best work of original and unpublished short fiction written in English by a Zambian administered and funded by Ukusefya Words. Previous winners have been Mali Kambandu (2018), Mubanga Kalimamukwento (2019), and Rhodasi Mwale (2020).
The jury for 2023 comprised Mbozi Haimbe, Lionel Ntasano, Austin Kaluba, and Chobela Ndilila. The longlist was announced on Saturday, April 29 before the shortlist was public on July 27.
The winning short story announced today, described as “immersive, spellbinding and unapologetic” by the judges, is Dark Motives by Sylvia Mbewe. Up the Eucalyptus Tree by Mikha Mweetwa and No Strings Attached by Mukandi Siame emerged as run-ups.
You can read all the winning stories on their website.
Winning the Kalemba Prize, Mbewe said “would truly be a monumental achievement and a highlight in my writing journey that I will proudly share with my eight-month-old baby in the years to come.
It would not only open up exciting new opportunities but also boost my confidence as a writer, allowing me to pursue my passion with even greater determination and conviction.”
Mbewe will be presented with the award including the US$1500 cash prize at a ceremony in Lusaka later in September.
Mbewe will be presented with the award including the US$1500 cash prize at a ceremony in Lusaka later in September.
