In a significant development for Zimbabwe’s literary landscape, Weaver Press, a prominent independent publisher, has announced its closure after a remarkable 25 years of operation. Founded in 1998 by Murray McCartney and Irene Staunton, Weaver Press has been a pivotal force in nurturing and showcasing Zimbabwean literature, particularly during challenging economic and political times.
Weaver Press, established in the backyard of McCartney and Staunton’s Harare home, epitomized the ethos of a labor of love. Its inception during a period of increasing instability under Robert Mugabe’s rule was not just an act of publishing; it was a statement of resilience and commitment to the power of storytelling and literature.
The press began its journey in a nation where the wheels of stability were coming off, and the economy was spiraling downward. Amidst the closure of bookshops, rising paper costs, and political turmoil, Weaver Press stood as a beacon of hope and a nurturing ground for Zimbabwean writers. It provided a crucial platform for authors at a time when larger publishing houses were focused predominantly on the more lucrative textbook market.
Weaver Press’s contribution to Zimbabwean literature is immeasurable. Through its short story anthologies, it became a cradle for a new generation of Zimbabwean writers. These authors, who critically responded to authoritarianism and socio-political issues, have gone on to establish significant international reputations. This was particularly important in a country with no strong culture of literary magazines. Weaver Press thus played a crucial role in identifying and promoting new literary talent while encouraging established writers to continue their craft.
The press’s mission was akin to the indigenous weaver birds it was named after – building intricately woven nests of stories that formed a community of writers and readers. As the first intern at Weaver Press, I experienced firsthand the intimate and hands-on nature of independent publishing in Zimbabwe. The lack of formal publishing studies meant that learning was experiential, contributing to a rich understanding of the industry.
Irene Staunton, co-founder of Weaver Press, brought to the venture a wealth of experience from her earlier career in London and her subsequent co-founding of Baobab Books in Zimbabwe. Her work with Baobab, alongside Hugh Lewin, had already set a high bar in publishing, featuring notable authors who articulated the traumas of the liberation struggle.
At Weaver Press, Staunton continued this legacy, working with emerging writers of the turn of the millennium. These writers, including names like Brian Chikwava, NoViolet Bulawayo, and Tendai Huchu, offered vivid narratives of life under Mugabe’s regime, providing critical perspectives on the state of the nation.
Despite operating in a country with a low book-buying culture and facing accusations from the government of being antagonistic, Weaver Press never wavered in its commitment to literature. It operated more like a non-profit, balancing its books through freelance editing and typesetting while being propelled by a dedication to good literature.
Weaver Press’s closure marks the end of an era for independent publishing in Zimbabwe, following the earlier shutdown of amaBooks. It highlights the shifting landscape of publishing in Africa, where traditional models face challenges from digital transformation and changing reading habits.
The legacy of Weaver Press, however, is indelible. It demonstrates the critical role independent publishers play in nurturing literary cultures, especially in countries facing socio-political challenges. As Zimbabwe’s literary scene evolves, the lessons from Weaver Press’s journey remain relevant. There is a need for innovative publishing models that embrace digital media and address the interests of a young, digitally-savvy population.
In a broader context, Weaver Press’s story is a testament to the enduring power of literature in shaping and reflecting societal narratives. It underscores the importance of preserving spaces for diverse voices and stories, especially in times of turmoil and change. As we move forward, the spirit and impact of Weaver Press will continue to inspire publishers, writers, and readers, both in Zimbabwe and beyond.
