Press release: New beginnings as the 2025 AVBOB Poetry Competition starts, grand prize of R12,500 set to be won

The 2025 AVBOB Poetry Competition officially opens for entries on 1 August 2024. This prestigious contest invites poets from all corners of South Africa to submit their original works in any of the South Africa's 11 official written languages. With generous cash prizes awaiting the winning entries, this is a golden opportunity for talented wordsmiths to shine.

Once again AVBOB is asking South Africans from all walks of life to submit their finest words of love, hope, courage and consolation. As before, participants can enter poems on the themes of love, death, birth and hope. In a dynamic update that echoes AVBOB's commitment to celebrating life's transformative moments, we are delighted to unveil the newest theme for the AVBOB Poetry Competition. Aptly titled New Beginnings, this fifth theme invites poets to explore the exhilarating possibilities of a fresh start and the profound joy of embarking on new chapters in life. 

As we embrace a forward-thinking vision, we encourage poets of all backgrounds to share their tales of resilience, hope, and the boundless optimism that accompanies new beginnings (even on the back of adversity). Join us in commemorating the magic of starting anew and the infinite potential that lies ahead.

The strongest entries in each language category will be published in the online AVBOB Poetry Library, earning the poet a R300 publication fee. First-place winners in each language category will receive a grand prize of R12 500. This includes R10 000 in cash, a R2 500 book voucher, and the sought-after AVBOB Poetry Trophy.

Carl van der Riet, AVBOB CEO, notes, "Even though the competition has become an annual ritual for so many, we are deeply moved each time by the depth and honesty of the entries we receive. When we feel most deeply, whether it is joy or sorrow, we often turn to poetry for companionship, consolation and clarity. It is at such times that we are most likely to find the best words to express our most profound emotions. And so, the goal of the AVBOB Poetry Competition has been, and will always be, to create a single platform on which South Africans can share their innermost feelings. The AVBOB Poetry website already contains more than 22 000 poems. When this competition was launched, we could never have dreamed of such an archive, across languages and social barriers."

Poets may submit up to 10 poems via the online dashboard. The top three poems in each language category will be featured in the annual print anthology. All shortlisted poems will be translated into English in the spirit of promoting understanding and fellow feeling among South Africans.

The AVBOB Poetry blog and social media platforms offer tips on how to get started as well as pointers and advice from the judges. A range of free resources is also available on the AVBOB Poetry website to support and encourage aspiring poets. This includes expert advice, articles featuring successful poets, and editorial guidelines. A series of free online workshops, hosted both during and after the competition submission period, has continued with great success throughout this year. These workshops expose participants to the insights and ideas of experienced poets and publishers.

To participate in the 2025 AVBOB Poetry Competition, simply register on www.avbobpoetry.co.za. Enter up to 10 poems in any of South Africa's official written languages between 1 August and 30 November 2024. Who knows? You might be one of the lucky winners!

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Five writers from Nigeria, South Africa and Tanzania shortlisted for the 2024 Toyin Falola Prize

The shortlist for the prestigious Toyin Falola Prize has been announced, featuring five talented writers from Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. The prize, organized by Lunaris, celebrates writers who embody the spirit of African literature, a spirit championed by the renowned historian and professor, Toyin Falola.

This year's theme, "Sacred," has inspired a diverse range of submissions, with the shortlisted works exploring themes of identity, family, faith, and the complex interplay between human desires and the divine.

Here are the shortlisted writers and their works:

Divine Inyang Titus for "Fibers from the Deep": This novel delves into the spiritual journey of its protagonist, grappling with family dynamics and personal growth amidst turmoil. The story explores themes of identity, belief, and connection, culminating in a poignant portrayal of love and loss within the family.
Mlilo Mpondo for "A Place like Here":  This story offers a powerful portrayal of marginalized characters navigating the contrasting landscapes of Yeoville and Johannesburg's northern suburbs. Through vivid storytelling, "A Place like Here" explores themes of identity, survival, and resilience, offering a compelling look at urban life and societal inequities.
Mohammad Haruna for "The Harvestor's Commandment": This work intricately weaves themes of privilege, moral dilemma, and spiritual redemption through the protagonist's journey from luxury to exile and ultimately, pilgrimage. The narrative explores the consequences of transgressing sacred duties in pursuit of power and understanding.
Immaculate Halla for "The Blood We Tie": This captivating story explores familial loyalty and moral dilemmas amidst profound personal struggles. Through the main character's harrowing choices and the unwavering support of her sisters, the narrative delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the haunting repercussions of buried secrets.
Nwafor Emmanuel for "The Recrudescence": This thrilling novel depicts a village thrown into chaos by the arrival of a mysterious stranger. The story explores the clash between human desires and divine intervention, weaving moral quandaries and unforeseen twists that captivate readers until its haunting resolution.

The judges, Chinua Enzenwa-Ohaeto and Gil Ndi-Shang, will now have the difficult task of selecting a single winner from these five exceptional writers. Congratulations to all the shortlisted authors for their remarkable achievements!

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South African poet illuminates the global stage

Sihle Ntuli, a poet and classicist from Durban, South Africa, is captivating the global literary scene with his extraordinary talent. His poetic voice, steeped in classical wisdom and a deep understanding of his African heritage, has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him recognition as the first-place winner in the prestigious 2024 Patricia Kailis Fellowship writing competition.

Ntuli's journey to literary acclaim is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion. He holds a Master of Arts in Classical Civilizations and previously served as a professor at the University of the Free State, demonstrating his multifaceted intellectual prowess. His poetic works, however, are where his artistic soul truly shines.

Ntuli's debut poetry collection, *Rumblin*, published by uHlanga in 2020, introduced his unique style to the world. The collection delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the complexities of the African experience, all expressed through a powerful blend of lyrical beauty and social commentary. His second collection, *Zabalaza Republic*, released by Botsotso in 2023, further solidified his place as a prominent voice in contemporary South African literature.

His work has garnered critical acclaim, earning him prestigious awards and invitations to prestigious literary festivals. Notably, Ntuli was recently selected for the 2024 Patricia Kailis Fellowship, a prestigious award recognizing emerging writers of exceptional talent. The fellowship will provide him with the opportunity to further hone his craft and connect with an international network of literary luminaries.

Adding to his growing list of accolades, Ntuli announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he will be reading from his collections, *Nation* and *Zabalaza Republic*, at the Amazwi Museum in Makhanda on August 22nd, alongside fellow poets Ron Sima and Kabelo Jazzmeneer Mofokeng. This event promises to be a vibrant celebration of South African poetry and a testament to Ntuli's rising star.

Sihle Ntuli's journey is a reminder of the power of art to transcend borders and connect us through shared experiences. His words, imbued with both classical wisdom and contemporary consciousness, offer a compelling glimpse into the soul of a nation and the universal struggles of humanity. With his burgeoning career and undeniable talent, Sihle Ntuli is poised to become a significant voice on the global literary stage, inspiring generations to come.

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South African poet and classicist Sihle Ntuli wins prestigious Patricia Kailis Fellowship

Durban-born poet Sihle Ntuli has been awarded the 2024 Patricia Kailis Fellowship, a significant recognition of his exceptional talent and his contribution to the South African literary landscape.  Ntuli's publications include "Rumblin" (uHlanga 2020) and his latest poetry collection, "Zabalaza Republic" (Botsotso 2023).

Ntuli's poetic journey began with a deep inspiration from his city and its people.  His work often reflects his commitment to telling authentic stories while exploring innovative ways to creatively share his message. 

"I always hope that it becomes evident that my intention is to always honor and respect the craft, and in many ways the craft has done the same for me," says Ntuli.

His ability to convey complex emotions resonates deeply with readers, who find his work both personal and profound.  Ntuli hopes that his poetry leaves readers with the understanding that even in a world riddled with darkness, art can reveal beauty.

Winning the Patricia Kailis Fellowship is not only a personal triumph for Ntuli but also a source of pride for the Durban literary community, showcasing the city's vibrant artistic talent.  Ntuli intends to use his platform to encourage more South African writers to submit their work to international journals, demonstrating the thriving literary scene within the country.

The poet is currently working on his third full-length poetry collection, promising to continue to captivate readers with his unique voice and insightful observations on the world around him.

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Controversial author Jackie Phamotse grabs the headlines again

Controversial author Jackie Phamotse has been making headlines once again, defying court orders to remain homebound by announcing the imminent release of her 11th book. Despite being sentenced to two years of house arrest, the prolific writer and inspirational speaker is proving that she can continue to pursue her passion and make a living from the comfort of her couch.

The news of Jackie's upcoming book launch has generated significant buzz, especially as it coincides with Women's Month in South Africa, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the release. The Citizen, a prominent news and entertainment publication, recently broke the story, shedding light on Jackie's latest literary endeavor. This development comes just three months after the court ruling that mandated her confinement to her residence.

Jackie Phamotse's legal troubles stem from a highly publicized defamation case involving businesswoman and former Miss South Africa Basetsana Kumalo and her husband Romeo. The author had taken to social media, specifically X (formerly known as Twitter), to make allegations against the couple, implicating them in a scandalous sex tape. Subsequently, she was found guilty on multiple charges, including defamation, crimen injuria, and violating a protection order.

Despite these legal setbacks, Jackie remains undeterred in her creative pursuits. Taking to Instagram, she shared the cover of her latest work, titled "The Tea Merchant," providing a tantalizing glimpse into the storyline. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Cederberg mountains, the novel promises a gripping romantic thriller that delves into themes of grief, mystery, and danger. The narrative unfolds around Cameron Coal's quest to save his family's rooibos farm from financial ruin, intertwining with an unexpected connection with the enigmatic nurse Luna Parks.

With its promise of secrets and intrigue, "The Tea Merchant" is poised to captivate readers and keep them on the edge of their seats. Jackie Phamotse has skillfully crafted a narrative that teases out questions of motive and hidden truths, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world filled with suspense and unexpected revelations.

As Jackie continues to navigate the challenges of her legal situation, her determination to pursue her literary ambitions serves as a testament to her resilience and creative spirit. The upcoming release of "The Tea Merchant" signals her unwavering commitment to storytelling and offers a compelling narrative that is sure to resonate with readers. Despite the controversy surrounding her personal life, Jackie Phamotse is set to leave an indelible mark on the literary landscape with her latest work.

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Sarah Manyika to grace Writers' Circle Literary Festival in London

Sarah Manyika Ladipo is set to captivate the literary scene at the Writers' Circle Literary Festival in London on July 27, 2024. Hosted by Diaspora Reflections, the festival promises an immersive experience for literary enthusiasts.

Diaspora Reflections: A Cultural Bridge

Diaspora Reflections is renowned for its curated events that celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the Black diaspora. Through music festivals, art exhibitions, readings, and a thought-provoking podcast, the organization fosters connections and showcases diverse artistic expressions.

Writers' Circle Literary Festival 2024

The Writers' Circle Literary Festival marks Diaspora Reflections' latest endeavor. Held at the Africa Centre, the festival will offer a platform for emerging and established writers to share their stories, inspire, and engage with audiences.

Sarah Manyika: Literary Luminary

Sarah Manyika Ladipo, the festival's main attraction, is an award-winning writer of novels, short stories, essays, and podcasts. Her accolades include being named one of New African's "100 Most Influential Africans" in 2022 and judging prestigious literary awards.

Manyika will lead the writers' workshop and recount her remarkable journey to becoming a best-selling author. Her insights and wisdom will undoubtedly enrich aspiring writers.

Joining the Literary Conversation

Alongside Manyika, the festival will feature an array of accomplished authors, playwrights, poets, and editors. Ore Agbaje-Williams and Varaidzo will share their experiences, offering valuable perspectives on the writing and publishing landscape.

Attendees can expect panel discussions, networking opportunities, and inspirational talks that delve into the complexities and rewards of the literary profession.

The Writers' Circle Literary Festival 2024 promises to be a vibrant celebration of literature and creativity. With Sarah Manyika as the guiding star, the festival will inspire, connect, and empower writers and readers alike.

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Tananarive Due and LaToya Jordan make history at Shirley Jackson Awards

The 2023 Shirley Jackson Awards, honoring excellence in horror, suspense, and dark fantasy, saw two African American authors, Tananarive Due and LaToya Jordan, emerge victorious in their respective categories.

Due, known for her critically acclaimed work, took home the award for Best Novel for her chilling masterpiece, "The Reformatory." The novel, set in Jim Crow Florida, follows the harrowing journey of Robert Stephens Jr. as he confronts the horrors of racism and injustice at a segregated reform school. Due's triumph comes hot on the heels of her L.A. Times Book Prize and Bram Stoker Award win for the same novel. "I just heard I won a Shirley Jackson Award for THE REFORMATORY!!!" she exclaimed on Twitter, expressing her joy and excitement.

In the Novella category, LaToya Jordan secured the coveted prize for her captivating story, "To the Woman in the Pink Hat," published by Aqueduct. Jordan, known for her poignant and thought-provoking narratives, expressed her delight on Twitter, simply stating, "I WON A SHIRLEY JACKSON AWARD!"

The awards, presented at Readercon 33 in Quincy, Massachusetts, mark a significant moment for the literary world, showcasing the growing recognition and celebration of diverse voices within the genres of horror and suspense. Due and Jordan's victories stand as powerful testaments to the enduring influence of African American writers and their unique perspectives on the human experience.

Their wins serve as an inspiration to aspiring authors and a reminder that stories from all walks of life deserve to be heard and celebrated. The Shirley Jackson Awards continue to champion literary excellence while highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in the realm of genre fiction.

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Open Book Festival returns to Cape Town with a celebration of stories and voices

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of books and ideas, as the Open Book Festival makes a triumphant return to Cape Town this September!

This year's festival promises an exceptional lineup, showcasing a dynamic mix of established authors and captivating debut voices from across South Africa.  We are also thrilled to welcome writers from various corners of the African continent, adding a rich tapestry of perspectives to the event.

The diverse array of participants represents a kaleidoscope of literary talent, spanning genres and themes that are sure to resonate with a wide audience. More than just a celebration of books, Open Book serves as a vital platform for thought-provoking conversations, amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.

For those eager to delve into the worlds created by our featured authors, all participating books will be available for purchase at our partner, The Book Lounge.  Support these talented writers and get your reading list ready ahead of the festival.

We are currently finalizing the detailed program, which will be available on our website in early August. While specifics remain under wraps for now, you can anticipate a diverse range of panel discussions, captivating performances, and engaging events. Stay tuned for the full schedule and start planning your festival experience!

The Open Book Festival is more than just an event; it's an opportunity to engage with captivating stories, connect with passionate writers, and be part of a vibrant literary community. We look forward to welcoming you to a festival that celebrates voices, ideas, and the enduring power of storytelling.

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Zimbabwean-American poet and Duke university professor Dr Tsitsi Jaji publishes chapter on Shona oral poetry

Zimbabwean-American poet and Duke University professor Tsitsi Jaji is bringing a fresh perspective to the study of poetry in her chapter titled "Decolonizing the Poem" in the recently released *The Cambridge Companion to the Poem*.  

Dr. Jaji, known for her own renowned poetry, delves into the realm of Shona oral poetry, moving beyond the written word to explore its significance in crucial life moments. Her chapter focuses on *nhetembo dzemadzinza*, a genre of Shona oral praise poetry, and examines its role in rites of passage, kinship affirmations, and even romantic exchanges. 

"This chapter approaches the concept of the poem through the recitation of oral praise poetry in interpersonal exchanges and in an increasingly textual world," reads the synopsis. "Blending literary history, textual analysis, and autoethnography, the chapter illuminates a decolonial approach to the poem, shifting from an emphasis on the individually authored work to the value of shared practice."

Dr. Jaji's work highlights the interpretive power of collectives, challenging the traditional focus on individual authorship. She further analyzes how diaspora poets are reimagining *nhetembo*, seeking to reclaim a non-hierarchical, decolonializing approach to social relations.

"The chapter then addresses the reimagination of *nhetembo* by poets who, living in the diaspora, seek nevertheless to claim a nonhierarchical, decolonializing set of social relations," the synopsis continues.

Dr. Jaji's inclusion in the prestigious Cambridge Companions series underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse forms of poetry, particularly those that have traditionally been marginalized. Her work promises to deepen our understanding of the rich history and cultural significance of Shona oral poetry, while also offering a critical and decolonial perspective on the nature of poetry itself.

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#RedFest2024: A Celebration of the Arts in Gauteng

Get ready for a vibrant showcase of theatre, music, and performance at #RedFest2024! Taking place from Thursday, 25 July to Sunday, 28 July 2024 at Redhill School, this four-day festival promises something for everyone.

Since its inception in 2016, Redhill Arts Festival has blossomed into a beloved community event, attracting visitors from across Gauteng. This year, expect a dazzling array of world-class theatre productions, a lively musical festival, captivating children's theatre shows, and a mouthwatering selection of food stalls.

Explore a carefully curated artisanal market, discover must-visit art exhibitions, and unwind at gin bars and beer tents. Whether you're looking for a cultural immersion, family fun, or simply a magical weekend with friends, RedFest offers a safe and vibrant atmosphere to indulge in the best of the arts.

For a detailed lineup and more information, visit www.redfest.co.za.  You can also contact the festival team via their WhatsApp helpline at 076 729 9678 or email them at redfest@redhill.co.za.

Don't miss out on this incredible celebration of the arts!  #RedFest2024  #GautengArts

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Nigerian-Canadian poet, playwright and performer Titilope Sonuga joins the Recording Academy

Titilope Sonuga, the acclaimed Nigerian-Canadian poet, playwright, and performer, has reached a significant milestone in her multifaceted career: she has joined the Recording Academy as a member of the 2024 New Member Class.  This prestigious recognition marks a pivotal moment for Sonuga, who continues to push creative boundaries across multiple artistic disciplines.

Membership in the Recording Academy is highly sought after by music professionals, signifying a level of achievement and influence within the industry. To be considered, individuals must undergo a rigorous vetting process, including submitting letters of recommendation from esteemed industry peers and a detailed career profile.  Recording Academy members hold the esteemed responsibility of voting to determine the annual GRAMMY Award winners.

Sonuga's artistry seamlessly blends poetry, spoken word, music, and theatre.  Her work spans three published poetry collections: "Down to Earth," "Abscess," and "This Is How We Disappear," as well as two spoken word albums, "Mother Tongue" and "Swim."  She has also penned three plays, most recently the musical "Ada the Country."  From 2021 to 2023, Sonuga served as the 9th Poet Laureate of the City of Edmonton, a testament to her artistic leadership.

Her creative evolution has continued to blossom, most recently with the release of her single "Sanctuary" earlier this year. The song celebrates the strength and importance of friendship and sisterhood, further showcasing Sonuga's diverse musical talents.

In sharing the news of her Recording Academy membership last month on her X account, Sonuga expressed her deep gratitude, writing, "Honored to be a part of this year's @RecordingAcademy New Member Class!"

Sonuga's entry into the Recording Academy represents a significant moment for a multi-talented artist who continues to break down barriers and inspire others with her bold artistic vision. Her influence and contributions to the world of music are only expected to grow, and this new chapter promises exciting developments for this remarkable creative force.

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Somali-British author Nadifa Mohamed nominated for Edinburgh TV award for "Britain's Human Zoos"

Somali-British author Nadifa Mohamed has earned a prestigious nomination for the 2024 Edinburgh TV Festival Award for Best Factual Presenter. The recognition comes for her powerful documentary, "Britain's Human Zoos," a harrowing exploration of the forgotten history of human zoos in Britain.

Mohamed's documentary unveils the shameful practice of displaying Black and Brown individuals for the entertainment of British audiences in the 19th and 20th centuries. "Britain's Human Zoos"  strives to restore humanity and agency to those who were treated as mere objects, many of whom, Mohamed reveals, remain on display in museums today even after death. The documentary aired on Channel 4 in the UK.

Known primarily for her acclaimed novels, most recently the Booker Prize shortlisted "The Fortune Men," Mohamed brings her research and storytelling prowess to a new medium in "Britain's Human Zoos." The film, which has garnered critical acclaim, explores a disturbing chapter in British history, shining a light on the systemic racism and dehumanization that permeated society for far too long.

The Edinburgh TV Festival, an annual gathering for television industry professionals, will announce the winners of the Edinburgh TV Awards on August 22nd.  The Jury President for this year's awards is British rapper and television presenter Big Zuu.

Mohamed's nomination stands as a testament to her impactful work in bringing this crucial historical narrative to the forefront.  Congratulations to Nadifa Mohamed for this well-deserved recognition.

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The Folklore Festival announces list of writers who will feature at this event in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town #WETHEFOLK

The Folklore Festival, featuring many writers, will be hosted in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town from August 7 – September 12, 2024. The theme is #WETHEFOLK.
The Folklore Festival is a celebration of African culture, customs, and community first hosted in South Africa in 2022. Rounding out South Africa's Heritage Month (September), it incorporated a day of music, poetry, dance, books, toys and workshops. Founded by award-winning storyteller Pilani Bubu, that first edition was supported by the National Arts Councils and the SAMPRA Development Fund.
The third edition will return with many new acts starting in Johannesburg on August 7 and ending in Cape Town on September 12. Audiences will be treated to storytelling, workshops, film screenings, poetry, theatre, book fairs (you can buy books), DJs, oral traditions, podcasts, art, folk music, and kids' workshops.
In their communication, the organisers said, "It is time for this community to come together again to share in culture, creativity, and heritage. To have those resonant conversations, to hold space for our shared values and to contribute to nation-building. In the theme of this year's biggest conversation for the greater South African audience, we too are contemplating 30 years of Freedom as we launch our creative platform for the year 2024: #WETHEFOLK. What you can expect is a rich line-up of Artivists and Storytellers: from authors, filmmakers, thespians, and oral traditionalists, to poets, selectors, sound curators and musicians."
People in the writing industry will be Gcina Mhlophe, Fred Khumalo, vangile gantsho, Shafinaaz Hassim, Zibuzethu Sithole, Janine Jellars, MoAfrika Wa Mokgathi, Busisekile Khumalo, bookstore owner Sewela Langeni, and many others.
Here is where you will see some of the literary folks (click here for tickets to the full festival);
Johannesburg
AUGUST 7
#WeTheFolk Press Launch: 7 AUGUST Workshop 17: The Bank, Johannesburg Ft. PILANI BUBU & NICKY B
AUGUST 8
#WeTheFolk: Free Activation. State Theatre, Pretoria Folklore Festival presents the Folk & Poetry Stage in collaboration with Black Labone's Earth Day.
AUGUST 9
#WeTheFolk: Women's Day Edition, St Lorient Gallery Pretoria Folklore Festival presents a trilogy moment for Imbokodo: An art Exhibition, Women's Book Fair with Busisekile Khumalo and Shafinaaz Hassim – themed: Writing Women in the now and live music with KATZTHESINGER, SPARTZ and PILANI BUBU.
AUGUST 24
Folklore Festival presents DUMAMA and an adult book fair with BOOK CIRCLE CAPITAL featuring authors Janine Jellars and Zibuzethu Sithole – Themed, 'Enter a generation of Young Women Writers'
AUGUST 30
Folklore Festival presents the oracle Mam' GCINA MHLOPHE supported by VANGILE GANTSHO and MOAFRIKA WA MOKGATHI.
AUGUST 31
With a weekend of kids workshops with GCINA MHLOPHE, LOGAN & FRIENDS, and INDIGENOUS INSTRUMENTS WORKSHOP & PERFORMANCES
SEPTEMBER 12
Folklore Festival presents SIBUSILE XABA and a line-up of prolific South African authors: Mbuso Nkosi, Lebogang Seale, and Fred Khumalo – themed 'Our land our stories'

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Journey into fictional worlds with Afro Poetry Times July Edition

This month, Afro Poetry Times takes you on a captivating journey into the depths of imagination. Explore fictional cities built from the raw materials of thought, crafted by the finest wordsmiths from across the African diaspora.

Dive into the stories of an African author who bravely rejected a prestigious European award, learn how Nigerian literature is making waves in Ireland, and discover unpublished gems of poetry and short stories.

Ready to embark on this literary adventure? Grab your digital copy of Afro Poetry Times – July 2024 Edition – on PressReader, accessible anywhere in the world.  

https://www.pressreader.com/canada/afro-poetry-times/20240701

Let your imagination soar and discover the captivating power of words.

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Kenya's National Read Aloud Day: A Nationwide Effort to Amplify Children's Voices

On Thursday, July 12, 2024, Kenya will witness a nationwide celebration of literacy with the inaugural National Read Aloud Day. This event, spearheaded by the Start A Library Trust, aims to unite 300,000 learners from 3,000 schools across the country, alongside 6,000 dedicated Reading Ambassadors, in a collective effort to break the world record for the most people reading aloud from the same text at the same time in multiple locations.

The initiative, which evolved from the Storymoja Read Aloud campaign launched in 2014, has consistently grown in participation, bringing together children from all corners of Kenya to share their love for reading.  This year, the event has gained national recognition, with President William Ruto declaring July 12 as the inaugural National Reading Day.

The 2024 National Read Aloud Day focuses on amplifying the powerful voices of African children in the fight against climate change. The event hopes to use the transformative power of reading to provide an escape from eco-anxiety and spark knowledge and action in young minds. Through shared narratives, the goal is to connect, find strength, and discover the healing power of reading for both our planet and ourselves.

While President Ruto's attendance remains uncertain following a turbulent period for his administration, the National Read Aloud Day promises to be a powerful event that celebrates the joy of reading and inspires young minds to take action for a better future.

If you are interested in participating as a Reading Ambassador, where you will be assigned a school to engage with, click here.

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Yvonne Chaka Chaka's uncredited contributions to 'Umqombothi'

Legendary musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka, hailed as the "Princess of Africa," has recently disclosed that she received no credit or royalties for her significant contributions to the hit song "Umqombothi," which launched her international career.

"Umqombothi," released in 1987, is officially credited to composers Chicco Twala and Attie van Wyk. However, Chaka Chaka claims to have added substantial elements, including the distinctive "Nawu! Nawu! Madoda" refrain, without due compensation.

"Umqombothi was written by Chicco, but I added some elements to it... I have never received a cent from that project," Chaka Chaka lamented in an interview with Newzroom Africa.

Her resentment stems from feeling exploited as a young artist at the time: "They didn't credit me, and back then, I was young and clueless about the music industry."

Twala responded to Chaka Chaka's allegations, claiming that she earned significantly more from performing the song than he and van Wyk did as writers: "Me and Attie, as the writers of the song, didn't even make half a quarter of the money she made from that song."

Fans, however, express skepticism towards Twala's explanation and wonder why Chaka Chaka is only raising this issue now. One user on Twitter commented, "Why is she only talking about this now after so long?"

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Jeffrey Radebe lands huge publishing deal

South African writer Jeffrey Rakabe has achieved a significant milestone with his debut memoir, "The Women Brought Books," securing a publishing deal with Jacana Media. This accomplishment came after Rakabe successfully pitched his work at the Jacana Literary Foundation (JLF)'s "From Pitch to Publication" initiative.

The third season of this program, held on March 25th at the JLF offices, brought together 13 promising writers who presented their manuscripts to a discerning panel of industry professionals.  This panel, including renowned figures like Sewela Langeni, Jennifer Platt, and Jacana Media's publishing directors, was captivated by Rakabe's insightful memoir.

"The Women Brought Books" delves into the profound impact of traditional male circumcision on the young author's life, viewing it as a rite of passage. However, Rakabe's exploration goes beyond the ritual itself, uncovering potential links to the prevalent issue of gender-based violence in South Africa. Through reading and reflection, guided by two influential women, he unravels the complex connections between initiation rituals and this societal scourge, ultimately advocating for gender interdependence.

In addition to Rakabe's publishing deal, another writer, Michelle Kekana, has been awarded a three-month mentorship program with South African journalist and author Rehana Rossouw.  Kekana's manuscript, "The Fragile Mental Health of Strong Women," will benefit from Rossouw's expertise, helping her refine her work and bring it closer to publication.

The "From Pitch to Publication" initiative serves as a powerful platform for emerging writers, offering them valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts and secure publishing deals. It showcases the vibrant literary talent within South Africa, ensuring that untold stories find their way to readers.

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