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WITH only two weeks remaining until the 45th Uhuru commemorations, it is essential to recognise the writers who have shaped the Zimbabwean literary landscape since 1980.
The literary arts not only provide a refreshing outlet for expression, but also play a crucial role in nurturing creative geniuses through imagination, comprehension and joy of reading.
Zimbabwe has produced some of the finest storytellers and writers, including luminaries like Mordecai Hamutyinei, Solomon Mutsvairo, Bernard Chidzero, Patrick Chakaipa, Charles Mungosi, Aaron Chiundura Moyo, and Ignatius Mabasa.
These household names have significantly enriched the literary world and deserve our acknowledgment during this significant celebration. In this instalment of “Down Memory Lane,” we honour Chirikure Chirukure, a revered storyteller, poet, publisher, and editor whose literary contributions have touched countless hearts.
With over 40 years in the literary arena, Chirikure’s achievements are unparalleled.
Like fine wine, he continues to evolve, demonstrating no signs of fatigue.
Chirikure has been at the forefront of connecting children with top writers, budding poets, and emerging publishing houses, fostering a vibrant literary culture.
Being the firstborn in a family of seven, it was evident that he was destined to become a community builder and game-changer, much like his father. Before we took stock of his achievements, Chirikure first shared his understanding of independence.
“Well, to me, independence is the total, complete, and full emancipation from all forms of repression. As such, our Independence Day should be a reflection of the sacrifices that went into the attainment of our independence. These sacrifices span across generations and various communities.
“It’s also a moment for us to reflect on the ideals and principles that guided the struggle for independence, considering how far we have come in fulfilling those principles. Such reflections continuously feed into one’s creative process,” stressed Chirikure.
Reflecting on the path he has travelled as a writer, Chirikure noted that his writing over the years has been a way to express himself.
“Writing is about laying out your feelings, sharing your emotions, and reflecting on your environment – whether political or social – and assessing if it meets everyone’s expectations.
“The role models in my career are diverse, ranging from fellow artists and writers to musicians and teachers who influenced me from primary school through university. This broad spectrum has been a significant influence, and collaboration within the creative sector has been a vital component of my career,” he emphasised.
“My father definitely played a crucial role. He was a writer – actually, he still is – but he never got published until a couple of years ago when he compiled the history of our Nemashakwe clan. Despite his busy schedule as a writer and community leader, he always found time to write. That discipline has influenced me profoundly, and I hope to preserve and continue that legacy,” he shared.
Chirikure, who has lost fellow writers, revealed that he will forever miss their impact on his life.
“I miss many fellow writers who passed away in the last few years; the list is extensive because each one had a direct impact on my career and personal life. This includes figures from the generation of Dr Solomon Mutsvairo and Mordecai Hamutyinei, who was my uncle, to the younger generations like Chenjerai Hove, who was a close friend. Each of them inspired and motivated me in unique ways.”
“As we celebrate our independence, let us remember the brothers and sisters who shed their blood and sacrificed their lives to bring Zimbabwe to where it is today. The best way to honour them is to build the Zimbabwe they envisioned, while sacrificing for this beautiful country. Pursuing that vision of Zimbabwe is the greatest tribute we can offer them.”
Reflecting on his journey and milestones, he established the Nemashakwe Community Library and Information Resource Centre in Gutu, Masvingo, five years ago.
To him, this initiative was a game-changer meant to empower rural folks with a reading culture.
“Before we address the issue of the lack of a reading culture, young people in rural and marginalised areas must have access to reading materials. Many rural communities lack books, which motivated me to convert one of my father’s shops in Nemashakwe into a community library in 2021,” he said.
He even went on to source over 4,000 books from Book Aid International in the UK, which are now being read by 60 to 70 people daily.
A former editor at College Press, Chirikure has been credited with mentoring Shona writers.
He has also published anthologies of poetry, such as Rukuvhute (The Umbilical Cord) in 1989 and Chamupupuri (The Whirlwind) in 1994, among other works. In Harare, he has been running the LitFest Harare (International Literature Festival), which is popular among schools. He regularly holds group discussions with experts at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, a hub for creatives.
In most of his discussions, he emphasises the need to include rural communities in the promotion of literature. Last year, he organised the Language Legacy Expo for ten weeks, celebrating Shona literature.
On the entertainment scene, he has made a name for himself as a songwriter, translating many songs, books, and journals for the benefit of readers. Academically, he graduated from the University of Zimbabwe in the early 1980s, where he studied Shona and History.
As a dub poet, he has gained recognition both locally and internationally.
Online Reporter