The Durban Review’s pilot edition of the women’s anthology called Drumbeat from Africa- Writings from Women of Africa, in association with the Durban University of Technology (DUT), the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and the Consulate of India, was revealed at a book launch ceremony held at Coastlands Umhlanga early this month.

The Durban Review is a publication that locates literature across the city of Durban and review writing by award winning writers and it has now published its first anthology by 50 Durban women writers who were selected and published; some writers having gained the opportunity to get published for the first time in their careers.

The book was edited by Zainab Priya Dala, Kripa Devar and Sylvia Garib, and the book cover was designed by Nivesh Rawatlall. Speaking more on the book was Dala, who is the founder of the Durban Review and editor in chief, on the literature pieces of work that were published.

Dala explained that the book was published as a means of also assisting established and up and coming authors on getting published and showcasing their work all across the globe. She further added that the book will be distributed in libraries across the globe.

“The anthology is a collection of 50 short stories and poems from Durban based women authors. It is an annual project, though we hope to have it as a bi-annual event. Also, the publishing proceeds will be shared with a charity organisation in Durban that assists with the abuse of women and children,” she said.

She also encouraged authors to submit work in their respective languages as she hoped that this will encourage readers across the globe to learn the different languages linked in the anthology. Dala also thanked the university for supporting and collaborating on this venture.

Pictured: Zainab Priya Dala.

Zethembe Sibiya