Tariro Tumbukayi
Renowned writer and storyteller, Elias Machemedze, has announced the launch of his own publishing company called Literature Uproar Publishers (PBC), aimed at assisting up-and-coming writers in the country.
He was inspired to set up his own company after facing challenges publishing his first book, Sarawoga, due to publishers rejecting it.
Machemedze hopes to advance the country’s history, literature and education through the publication of books that tell Zimbabwe’s stories.
Literature Uproar Publishers will also offer aspiring writers editorial services and help them navigate the publishing industry.
“I faced challenges in trying to publish my first book as many publishers refused to publish it claiming that it was not worth publishing, hence l am opening my own publishing company to help upcoming artists so that they do not face such challenges.
“The company will also advance the country’s liberation history, literature and education”, said Machemedze.
Machemedze wrote Sarawoga when he was still a secondary school student in Shamva. It was used as a set-book for O-Level Shona.
Between 2008 to 2011, he worked with the late Oliver Mtukudzi.
He is also the writer behind the famous book dedicated to late national hero Herbert Chitepo called The Life and Legacy of Zimbabwe’s first black Advocate and Freedom Fighter which was officially launched by President Mnangagwa in 2021.
Other books he has written include Nherera Zvirange and Mwoyo Inzenza. He is currently putting final touches on his latest book Kupotsa Kwegodzi.