Lifestyle

A Love Letter From Wales to Bulawayo

Published

3 years ago

October 2, 2021

VicFallsLive

BY ASHLEY EYVANAKI

amaBooks is an independent publisher based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

They specialise in Zimbabwean poetry, short stories, and contemporary novels, as well as a selection of local history and heritage titles.

In recent years its founders, Jane Morris and Brian Jones, have relocated to Wales – Jane having been born in Ebbw Vale.

Whilst continuing to publish in Zimbabwe, they have formed a working relationship with Parthian Books, to whom they have sold the rights to several of their titles: the short story anthologies Where to Now? and Moving On, and the novels The Maestro, The Magistrate and The Mathematician by Tendai Huchu, and This September Sun by Bryony Rheam.

Their most recent venture together is to co-publish the novel All Come to Dust, also by Bryony Rheam, a Zimbabwean author whose mother was Welsh.

Sitting down to interview the pair, I am amazed by how passionate both are about African literature.

Although amaBooks primarily publishes in English, there are sixteen official languages in Zimbabwe.

In the isiNdebele language, spoken in Bulawayo and the surrounding provinces of Matabeleland, “ama” placed at the start of a word is equivalent to an “s” at the end of a word in English.

They chose the name amaBooks to indicate that they publish books in English in an Ndebele cultural environment.

When I ask the couple about their journey into publishing, they laugh fondly and explain that they “Just stumbled into publishing.”

Jane, also a social worker and social work trainer, was working with volunteers for Childline, when raising funds locally was discussed.

A local poet offered a selection of his poems, and Jane and Brian volunteered to organise the publication.

One thousand copies were sold by the group, with all proceeds donated to Childline, and so amaBooks began.

amaBooks have been steadily publishing a selection of books since 2001, with many having won awards, and rights having been sold to publishers across the world.

amaBooks, and other African publishers, are part of the African Books Collective, who print and distribute many of their publications outside of Africa.

Welshman

The couple go on to talk about the deep-rooted historic link between Wales and Zimbabwe.

In the nineteenth century, several missionaries from Wales, including Thomas Morgan Thomas and Bowen Rees, travelled to Zimbabwe to set up mission schools in Matabeleland.

These schools have been instrumental in educating people who have gone on to become significant figures in Zimbabwean society.

As a result, the first name “Welshman” is one you hear in Matabeleland.

Thomas Morgan Thomas translated and published several books into isiNdebele, and his book Eleven Years in Central Africa, published in both English and Welsh in 1873, is rumoured to have become the second best-selling book, following the Bible, in Wales during that period.

The literary connection between Wales and Matabeleland was rejuvenated following a Wales Arts International visit to Bulawayo in 2006.

The links created led to Welsh writers Owen Sheers, Lloyd Robson, Ian Rowlands, and Peter Finch visiting Bulawayo, and some of their work being included in amaBooks publications.

Owen, Lloyd, and Ian went on to participate in the annual Intwasa Arts Festival koBulawayo.

There are also challenges to publishing in Zimbabwe.

Brian and Jane explained that the state of the economy remains the major difficulty, with over 90% of the adult population not in formal employment, and the wages of the majority of those in work being too low for many potential readers to actually buy a book – especially if it is not a school text.

Libraries rarely acquire books from local publishers, relying instead on book donations from international donors.

Problems

The couple commented that amaBooks started at “The wrong time, just as the economy began its steep decline to the total collapse in 2008, from which it has yet to recover.”

That decline led to other problems for the population, including publishers – a lack of fuel in the garages resulting in queuing for up to a week for petrol, frequent cuts in electricity supplies and, after many breakdowns, the end of telephone communication from where amaBooks were situated.

The majority of bookstores closed or concentrated solely on school textbooks.

The shortage of food in the stores at one point necessitated monthly overnight trips to neighbouring Botswana to buy basic supplies.

The political environment proved to be a challenge for all in the creative industries in Zimbabwe.

Although publishing has been less affected than many other arts sectors, there were occasions when the ruling party press printed comments about publishers whose work they considered did not follow the government line, such as “If you see a snake in your house playing with your child, you first kill the snake and save your child.”

However, it was worse for other sectors of the creative industries.

A rehearsal of a play, written by two amaBooks writers, was interrupted by ‘security officials’, with two backstage workers taken away to a remote area and threatened at gunpoint – the performances were then cancelled!

An exhibition by a visual artist, who had contributed a painting for an amaBooks book cover, was shut down at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

The artist was then charged with undermining the authority of the President, which carried a 20-year prison sentence, although charges were eventually dropped.

Joy

It is when we begin discussing the joys of publishing in Zimbabwe, that both Jane and Brian’s faces light up.

“It was the smiles on the faces of writers when their first stories or poems had been accepted for publication, and the enthusiasm of the audiences at the launches – many couldn’t afford to buy a book, but they came to hear the readings and to just enjoy the occasion.

And just being a part of a vibrant creative community.”

The book launches, attracting up to three hundred people at times, became celebrations across the arts, with both local music and the visual arts featuring.

The couple go on to reveal that the majority of amaBooks’ publications use the work of Zimbabwean artists as the basis of their covers.

As our interview winds down and talk turns to what we plan to do with our weekends, I ask the couple one last question: What is their most cherished memory from working in publishing?

For the first time in our almost two-hour long talk, they pause.

Lost in their thoughts, both agree that one of their most cherished memories is of standing on the veranda of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe after a book launch, sipping glasses of wine and watching the people mingling below.

Both believe that publishing through amaBooks has opened up a whole new world within their lives, allowing them to experience the joy and laughter of publishing pieces and meeting the talented people behind them. – Nation.Cymru

Lifestyle

From class monitor to junior parliament: The inspiring journey of Kimberly Simukai

Published

6 months ago

September 21, 2024

VicFallsLive

BY NOTHANDO DUBE

Are leaders born or made? This question sparks debate among scholars. Meet 14-year-old Kimberly Simukai, a young female leader who embodies the answer. Despite her age, Kimberly has already achieved an impressive list of accolades, including being elected to Junior Parliament and serving as Head of SADC Council. In this interview, we delve into Kimberly’s journey and explore her passion for public speaking, leadership, and empowering women.

Our reporter Nothando with Kimberly

N.D: What sparked your interest in Public Speaking, and how did your training in grade three lay the foundation for your current success?

K.S: Well, Public Speaking is all about an audience and you can not call yourself a public speaker when you are a social introvert. So, I think I was always someone who enjoyed talking to people and sharing information with them, so I guess my love for people sparked my interest in public speaking. In the whole journey, I underwent a military public speaking training by my mentor, Miss N Dube and because of the training I grew to realize that this is what I wanted to do and she made me strong to face all obstacles and mountains. I believe all this contributed to my success today.

N.D Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your public speaking journey so far, and how it has impacted in your confidence and skills?

K.S: Well, I still remember when my coach told me to talk to the wall and use it as my audience just because I had failed to rehearse a certain paragraph and now, I have seen the results of it as I am now confident to talk to anyone or any audience.

N. D: As a Form 1 student, being elected into the Junior Parliament is a remarkable achievement. What motivated you to run for office, and what do you hope to achieve in your role as Head of SADC Council?

K. S: As a form 1 student, being elected into Junior Parliament was something that seemed impossible to many and I still remember when I used to tell my mom about Junior Parliament, she would just laugh, thinking that I am making jokes, but I never stopped believing in my dream and I want to be the change so I needed a platform and standing ground for me to do that. That is why I decided to go for it. As the Head of Student Council, an Esteemed Ambassador, I hope to achieve a goal driven nation led by not only men but women as well as a way of promoting women empowerment.

N. D: How do you balance your academic responsibilities with your extracurricular activities, particularly your public speaking engagements and Junior Parliament duties?

K. S: Ever since I was young, I was nurtured and brought up in such a way that I learnt how to manage my academics and my extra- curricular activities at the same time without lacking in any one of them due to the other activity and my journey did not start now. I started in primary school and I used to travel away from school for weeks for chess or public speaking competitions and I would still come back to my school work, so yeah, I have just continued with that and I have never failed. I am an active chess player and I also play golf.

N.D: What advice would you give to younger girls who may be hesitant to pursue public speaking or leadership roles, and how can they overcome any obstacles or self -doubt?

K.S: As girls we have always suffered from toxic masculinity of the opposite sex, always subjected to chores as our duty, but I always tell myself that women are the ones that bring the male species into the world so why allow ourselves to be oppressed by our own produce. As women we need to remember that there is no such a thing as men jobs only, girls and women can take up anything at all. Women are known to have persuasive tongues so public speaking is a smooth sail for women as we were born with this attribute. The only barrier for many women across the world is fear and being scared of doing what others are not doing as a result we tend to be subjects of oppression. Whilst men use their masculinity to show their availability, why not use our mouths as well as women to do the same.

N.D: Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations, and how do you see your public speaking skills and Junior Parliament experience shaping your future endeavors?

K. S: I have always dreamt of becoming the first female president of Zimbabwe so with my experience in the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe and SADC Junior Motivators Parliament and Public Speaking skills, I think that’s where I am headed to. I am also aiming at representing my country in international forums.

Lifestyle

Precious Mathuthu: The 27-year-old Iyasa member making waves in the arts scene

Published

6 months ago

September 7, 2024

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Precious Mathuthu, a 27-year-old member of the renowned IYASA (Inkululeko Yabatsha School of Arts) group, has been making waves in the arts scene with her captivating performances.

We caught up with her at the Tourism Gastronomy in Victoria Falls, where she shared her journey, passion, and aspirations.

“It’s nice to be part of this group,” Precious says with a smile.

“It’s a free space for us as youths to learn different things beyond just arts and performance that can impart our knowledge in the future.”

Precious joined IYASA in 2013, and her talent and dedication have taken her to various countries, including South Africa, Botswana, and Malawi.

She has performed in numerous productions, including the popular “Sjaiva Sibancane” video which was her first appearance in the production.

“IYASA has that unique spice that tastes good,” she says, explaining what draws her to the group. “People love our performances, big time!”

With her vast experience in dancing, singing, and acting, Precious sees herself managing artists and becoming a choreographer in the next ten years.

“I’m talented, and I grasp things easily,” she says confidently.

IYASA, has been a force to be reckoned with in the arts scene since its inception in 2001.

The group has toured several countries, including France, Spain, and Australia, and has won multiple local and international awards.

With a focus on empowering young people, IYASA works with around 30-40 youths and has partnered with 40 schools across the country to create productions that tackle issues affecting the youth, such as drugs and substance abuse, and climate change.

As Precious continues to shine in the arts scene, her story serves as an inspiration to young people everywhere, showing that with passion, dedication, and hard work, anything is possible.

Lifestyle

Miss Universe World Sheynnis Palacios visits Victoria Falls

Published

7 months ago

August 22, 2024

VicFallsLive

BY BAYANDA NKATHA

Sheynnis Palacios, the current Miss Universe World, arrived in Victoria Falls on Wednesday as part of her world tour before relinquishing her crown in November.

During her two-day visit, she experienced the best of Zimbabwe’s tourism offerings, including a sunset cruise, interaction with wildlife, and a tour of the Falls.

“I am impressed by the hospitality of the Zimbabwean people,” Palacios said. “Everyone is so welcoming, and Victoria Falls is breathtaking. I will definitely market this beautiful country.”

Palacios was accompanied by Tendai Hunda, Miss Universe Zimbabwe license holder, Brooke Bruk-Jackson, Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2023, and Zodwa Mnkandla, a Miss Universe board member.

They were hosted by Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga, wife of Vice President Constantine Chiwenga.

Baloyi-Chiwenga, chairperson of Miss Universe Zimbabwe, emphasized the significance of Palacios’ visit. “This is our way of saying, ‘Come and visit Zimbabwe; it’s safe.’ We are thrilled to have Miss Universe World as part of our strategy to market the ‘Brand Zimbabwe’ campaign.”

Palacios’ visit comes shortly after Nicaragua opened its embassy in Harare, strengthening ties between the two nations. As the first Nicaraguan to win Miss Universe, Palacios is making her maiden visit to Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe.

She had previously represented Nicaragua in the 2017 Teen Miss Universe pageant and the 2021 Miss World pageant.

“I am excited to be here and experience all that Zimbabwe has to offer,” Palacios said. “I will ensure that I market this beautiful country and encourage others to visit.