Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo-Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
WAS this the biggest book launch ever in this country?
Mudiwa Hood, the award-winning musician, entrepreneur and motivational author staged what is undoubtedly one of Zimbabwe’s most extraordinary book launches last weekend.
Held at the Hyatt Regency Harare, the launch of Mudiwa Hood’s latest book, ‘How To Make Money in the Shortest Time Possible’, was far more than the unveiling of a publication.
It became a spectacular celebration of entrepreneurship, financial empowerment and the value of knowledge, bringing together business moguls, politicians, church leaders, celebrities, corporate executives and young entrepreneurs under one roof.
Instead of simply purchasing copies of the book, prominent businessmen and influential personalities began making jaw-dropping pledges.
Every announcement drew thunderous applause as the evening transformed into a remarkable display of generosity and belief in the power of education.
By the close of the event, US$359,000 was raised in cash pledges, while property developer Ken Sharpe surprised the audience by gifting Mudiwa a house.
Businessman Phillip Chiyangwa led the way by purchasing a copy for US$100,000, while Ambassador Uebert Angel followed with a US$99,000 pledge.
Businessman Allen Sibanda, legislator Chamu Chiwanza and music superstar Jah Prayzah also made generous contributions, turning what many expected to be a normal book launch into an unforgettable night.
“I am honestly overwhelmed. I am shocked, amazed and deeply humbled by what has happened tonight.
Prophetess Beverley and Prophet Uebert Angel
“I came here believing in my message but I never imagined people would respond in such an incredible way. This is beyond a book launch. This is a movement.
“People often say books don’t sell in Africa. Tonight has completely shattered that myth. When you write something that carries value, people will support it.
“This is bigger than Mudiwa Hood. This is about inspiring a generation to understand that wealth begins with knowledge.”
The rapper-turned-businessman said he hoped the event would inspire more young Zimbabweans to document their experiences and share solutions through books.
“Every pledge made tonight tells me Zimbabwe still believes in ideas. I pray this encourages young people to stop sitting on their dreams.
“Write that book. Start that business. Build that company. Your knowledge could become somebody else’s breakthrough.”
His latest book is a practical guide to entrepreneurship, personal branding, financial discipline, investing, creating multiple streams of income and developing the mindset needed to build sustainable wealth.
Drawing from his own journey from humble beginnings, Mudiwa challenges readers to create opportunities instead of waiting for them.
Ambassador Uebert Angel described the evening as an investment in wisdom.
“Knowledge is the greatest currency. When someone produces information capable of changing lives and creating wealth, it deserves support.
“Tonight we are not merely buying books; we are investing in the future of Zimbabwe. We celebrate musicians, athletes and politicians, but we must also celebrate authors because books outlive generations. Information creates transformation.”
The elegant atmosphere matched the significance of the occasion.
Guests networked over dinner before speeches centred on entrepreneurship, innovation and financial literacy.
Every major pledge brought the audience to its feet, creating an electric atmosphere rarely associated with literary events.Across Africa, only a handful of book launches have attracted such influential business figures.
One of Africa’s most notable recent book launches took place in Ghana when music executive and entrepreneur Richie Mensah unveiled his debut book, ‘Yes! It’s Your Fault’, in Accra.
The event drew an impressive gathering of business leaders, celebrities and corporate executives, with RNAQ Holdings founder Richard Nii Armah Quaye making headlines after purchasing the first copy for US$19,000.
The launch became a symbol of Ghana’s growing culture of investing in knowledge and entrepreneurship, demonstrating that books can attract significant financial backing and high-profile support from the business community.
For Mudiwa Hood, it marked the defining chapter of his journey from musician to author and entrepreneur.
LIST OF PLEDGES
Ken Sharpe—House
Phillip Chiyangwa — US$100k
Amb Angel.— US$99k
Chamu Chiwanza —US$25k
Dr Henry Dandadzi.— US$20k
Allan Sibanda. —US$10k
Tatenda Samukange.— US$10k
Fortune Tagwirei — US$5k
Rinos Mautsa — US$5k
Pastor Felix Angel US$4k
Blessed Gravity US$1k
Sharpe Business Academy US$3k
Jacqui Ngarande US$5k
Dr L Mambondiani US$19k
