Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Mashudu Mambo
ZIMBABWEN author Rodgers Upenyu Chaipa scooped an award at the Phoenix Publishing Book awards held last Saturday in Harare.
The Phoenix Publishing Book Awards are set to honour Zimbabwean authors’ contributions to literature. The winners of the awards were determined by the votes from readers across social media platforms.
Chaipa said he was grateful for the support that he was receiving from readers.
“The novel, The Lecher won an award in the fiction category, I am thrilled and humbled by this recognition. Winning the award for the second time is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of storytelling. I am grateful to the judges, my publishers and everyone who has supported me on this journey,” he said.
He indicated that he was delighted that he has made great contributions to the country and beyond.
“Last year, my debut novel, Super Patriots of Motherland, won the first prize in the Phoenix Publishing Book Awards. In addition to my novels, I have published over 25 school textbooks across the curriculum for primary and secondary schools in Zimbabwe and two other African countries.
“I published a Social Studies textbook for Grade Seven, Science textbooks for Grade Four to Grade Nine, Physical Education textbooks for Grade Eight to Grade 11 and an Agriculture textbook for Grade Seven. It has been a privilege to contribute to education and literature in my country and beyond,” he said.
Chaipa indicated he was working on a collection of six children’s books.
“Currently, I have a collection of six children’s books that are nearing completion. These stories are designed to inspire young minds and foster a love for reading. I am working on some academic projects, including Agriculture and Physical Education textbooks for secondary schools in another country. It is a busy but fulfilling time for me as a writer,” he said.
