By Jimmy Chazama:
Former President late Bingu wa Mutharika and seasoned poet Benedicto Wokomaatani Malunga were among the writers, who were decorated with awards during the launch of six books by Lilongwe-based writer Hope Jabes on Wednesday.
Held at Embassy of Morocco in Lilongwe, Bingu was recognised posthumously for Best Book in Politics in The African Dream: From Poverty to Prosperity whereas Wokomaatani Malunga got the Best in Poetry accolade during the 2026 Authorship Award Gala for Creative Excellence.
The other recipients were Pastor Esau Banda for Best Book in the Spiritual category and Audrey Mwala for Best Book in Finance.
Coming to the launch of six books, Jabes said he was happy with the strides that he has made in the literary circle.
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His six books add to a catalogue of his titles which now stand at 13.
The six books include The Art of Letting Go, Space Gates, The Power of Words, The Power of the Mind for Prosperity and To Hell and Back.
He said the books were written to confront challenges facing the country’s society.
“My books are written to confront the struggles of our society, from the words we speak to the way we think, from how we raise our children to how we face challenges and let go of burdens,” Jabes said.
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Clicks Mobile Chief Executive Officer Sam Chiwanda who was the guest of honour praised Jabes for his prowess in writing and urged people to embrace reading.
“It takes discipline, sacrifice and focus to write six books. These books have come at the right time because raising children today is more complex than ever,” Chiwanda said.
He encouraged parents and leaders to access the books, read them and use the knowledge to solve challenges.
Morocco Ambassador to Malawi, Oumiyer Mohammed, said the launch of the six books reflects growth in personal development and cultural identity.
“These books show how literature can change lives. The books encourage resilience and confidence, which is vital for Africa’s progress,” he said.
The ambassador said growth is linked to cultural values of solidarity and community and that Morocco’s commitment to Africa is about supporting such efforts with lasting solutions.
Renowned poet Q Malewezi spiced up the launch.
