The second edition of the Bank Windhoek Doek Literary Awards was launched in the capital on Tuesday.

This prestigious award event is aimed at providing a platform for Namibian writers to showcase their literary talents and be recognised for their contributions to the literary landscape of the country.

The awards were established to honour Namibian writers and their contributions to literature across various genres, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and visual arts. 

Speaking at the launch, founder of Doek Literary Awards Rémy Ngamije emphasised the importance of recognising Namibian literary talent, saying it is time for Namibian writers to be acknowledged for their creative achievements. 

He noted that many people tend to envy other countries’ literature because of how they tell their stories. 

With these awards, it is time for Namibian talent to shine, stated Ngamije.

“The Doek Literary Awards are an opportunity for Namibian writers to showcase their talents and gain recognition for their work. The awards celebrate literary excellence across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. By recognising and promoting Namibian literary talent, the awards aim to inspire a new generation of writers and contribute to the growth and development of Namibian literature,” he said. 

The awards provide a platform for emerging and established writers to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience. 

With the support of Bank Windhoek, the awards, first announced in 2021, are expected to continue to grow and promote literary excellence in Namibia.

The call for submissions for the second edition of the Doek Literary Awards will open soon, inviting writers from all corners of Namibia to submit their work for consideration. An esteemed panel of judges will assess the submissions and select the winners in each category.