Dr. Dora Siliya, a published author in Zambia and convenor of the Platinum Authors Conference, officially launched the Platinum Zambia Book Award on Friday, 10 April 2026, at The Mocha Puddle in Lusaka.
The award aims to celebrate Zambian writers, strengthen the country’s reading culture, and create economic opportunities within the local publishing industry.
In her words, Dr. Dora Siliya said:
“Writing is an extension of critical thinking. Platinum supports Zambia’s reading culture because there is money to be made in the book business. Zambian literature can create jobs if we stop relying on imported books. Zambians will think freely when we write and read our own stories. That is why the Platinum Zambia Book Award seeks to recognize local creativity and innovative thinking.”
Dr Siliya, founder of Platinum Communications Limited, said the initiative is intended to encourage authors and publishers to invest in local storytelling and ensure Zambian books remain visible in communities across the country.
She added that the winning book will be selected by a panel of respected judges, including Nicholas Kawinga of PEN Zambia and Daniel Sikazwe of ZNBC’s Writers Circle.
The winning title will be announced in March 2027 during the third Platinum Authors Conference.
Dr Siliya explained that the conference is being organized by Stu Neta of the Zambia Women Writers Association, Sumili Kipenda of the National Writers Association of Zambia, Zelipa Chalibonena of Open Window University, Doreen Mwenda from the Journal of African Youth Literature, Neta Joseph Mulikelela of Eden University, Mukandi Siame of cGrate Zambia, and Sharon Munshya of the Zambia Library Service.
The board chair of the Platinum Authors Conference, Anna Zgambo, a PhD candidate in Literature at the University of Zambia, said Platinum has committed K20,000 as the minimum prize for the winning book, while calling on sponsors to help increase the amount.
In her words, Anna Zgambo said:
“The Platinum Zambia Book Award should improve an author’s career. K20,000 is just the minimum that Platinum is offering. Through partnerships, we intend to raise an amount of money that will be meaningful and life-changing.”
Ms Zgambo urged partners and sponsors to support the initiative so the award can make a lasting impact on the lives of Zambian authors.
To stand a chance of winning, authors and publishers are encouraged to promote their books in all provinces. The Platinum Zambia Book Award will go to a single publication that is reviewed by readers, publicized in the media, available in libraries, sold in bookshops, and present in communities.
