Phetha Mpala Wins Best Matabeleland Writer Award for Debut Novel

Phetha Mpala has marked her first year as a professional writer with a major milestone. Her debut novel Amakhosikazi Esinyeyo earned her the Best Matabeleland Writer award at the Community Business Development Awards and Triple Book Launch in Johannesburg.

The Bulawayo based author uses her novel to explore moral and cultural decay in society. She focuses on the rise of troubling behaviour among women and how it affects families and communities.

Mpala said the award came as a surprise. She said she feels proud to represent Zimbabwe through her work and is grateful for the recognition. She added that the award has strengthened her focus as she works on a new title set for release next year.

Dominic Vundla, chairperson of Chefunye Social Association, described the event as a celebration of creativity. He said the project brought together authors and young writers while promoting skills development. The initiative started with a short story competition for writers aged 16 to 35 from districts that include Tsholotsho, Bulilima, Hwange, Lupane, Nkayi and Bulawayo. Five winning stories will be published and each writer will receive a cash prize.

The event also saw author Mercy Muda launch two new books in IsiNdebele and English.

The Community Business Development Awards recognised achievements in sectors such as cross border transport, hardware, baking and farming, fashion, arts and design. The awards highlight individuals and businesses making an impact in their communities.

Mpala was part of a group of writers from Matabeleland and Bulawayo whose work was included in the book Izehlakala Zemvelo. This publication came out of the same writing competition.

Vundla announced that another community awards ceremony will be held on December 29 at Chefunye Primary School in Tsholotsho District. The event aims to continue identifying and supporting talent across the region.