Dennis Ndlovu | Zim GBC News | Arts and Entertainment reporter
Marcus Fanuel Zimba has cemented his place in Zimbabwe’s literary scene after winning the prestigious Anthology of the Year award at the Red Carpet Poetry Awards.
For the Cowdray Park-born writer, the accolade is more than just a trophy, it is a profound validation of a journey rooted in humble beginnings and a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, who inspired his poetic voice.
Zimba was shortlisted in the categories of Page Poet of the Year, Impact Poet of the Year, Poet of the Year and Promising Artist of the Year.
Born on 12 April 2003 in Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North, Zimba was raised in Bulawayo. He attended Hope Primary School in Umguza District before completing his secondary education at Regina Mundi Mission in Lupane.
His rise from rural beginnings to national recognition is reflected in the themes that shape his work.
“When my name was announced among the winners, I felt a voice within me that told me, You have done it, my boy,” he said.
“It was like a voice from my mother and, in that instant, I knew I was destined for greatness and that the doors were opening one by one.”
Zimba described the award as a defining moment in his career.
“The award certified me as a true writer,” he said.
The author said the recognition cements his place in Zimbabwe’s literary landscape and reflects his journey.
“It tells the story of a young boy from the City of Bulawayo, from humble beginnings, who dares to dream.”
“It mirrors a path from where I began to where I am today,” he said, describing a journey shaped by struggle, rejection, hardship and triumph.
“From here on, I only rise. I want someone to pick up my book when I’m gone and remember that there was a voice from the city of Cowdray Park that expressed itself fearlessly.”
Zimba said he had always believed the anthology would resonate with readers.
“Yes, I did expect the book to speak to people the way it has,” he said.
“I have always believed in myself and in my talent. I knew that someday it would speak for me in places where I would not have to and it has done so today.”
Reflecting on the state of literature in Zimbabwe, he said the sector often receives limited attention and support, partly due to a declining reading culture.
“Literature is given little attention and limited endorsement in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“Although it may be seen as less important in a world dominated by technology, it still echoes. The fact that writers like me and others received recognition for their literary work shows the strength of the written word.”
He believes anthologies are increasingly important in amplifying diverse voices and experiences.
“Through these books, many voices may find their home,” he said.
“Each one tells a different story from love, friendship and togetherness to loss, pain, harassment and discrimination. These anthologies reflect the society we live in.”
Despite the accolade, Zimba said his journey was far from over. He revealed that he is already working on several new titles, including one currently under publication titled Who Shall Speak, which tackles themes such as discrimination, substance abuse, poverty, marginalisation and sexual violence. Another forthcoming project is Journey to the Old Grave and Other Stories.
“The vision is to leave this place with more than 50 books,” he said.
“The dream is to have a positive impact on people’s lives, so that when I cease to be, I will be remembered as someone who strove to speak for the voiceless and the forgotten.”
Zimba dedicated the award to his late mother, crediting her memory as the source of his poetic voice.
“She was the first woman to break my heart,” he said.
“It is because of the wound she left within me that I became a poet. Each day, when I write, I heal a little.”
He added, “Wherever you are, Mum, this award is for you, my angel. Keep resting in peace and watch over me.”
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