By Rahim Abdul
The Malawian literary scene received a vibrant boost on July 27, 2025, with the official launch of The Colour of Rain, a novel by local author Anthony Basil Manyozo.
Held in Blantyre, the event drew book lovers, academics, and fellow creatives who hailed the book as a meaningful contribution to the country’s growing body of homegrown literature.
The author, Manyozo, revealed that he invested K6 million of his own funds into publishing the novel an act he described as both personal and necessary for preserving authentic Malawian storytelling.
“I wanted to tell a story that is ours, that speaks to the real tensions of love, class, and aspiration along the beautiful shores of Lake Malawi,” Manyozo explained.
Set in Monkey Bay, Mangochi, the novel follows an emotionally charged romance between a humble fisherman and a Clinical Officer, touching on social divisions that still define many relationships in Malawi.
Renowned book reviewer Foster Benjamin lauded the novel’s rich local imagery and cultural grounding:
“You don’t have to leave Malawi to tell a powerful story. Anthony’s words bring the lake to life you can almost feel the breeze and hear the water. This is Malawian literature rooted in place and people.”
Delivering a thought-provoking address, guest of honour Professor Francis Moto used the occasion to challenge writers to remain committed to their craft despite the growing distractions of the digital age.
“Writers should not allow social media to replace depth. Stories like this one remind us why books still matter,” he said.
In a gesture of support, Professor Moto purchased five copies of the novel, pledging to donate copies to the University of Malawi Library and the Catholic University to inspire a culture of reading among students.
With The Colour of Rain now available in bookstores and local outlets, Manyozo’s launch signals more than just a new book on the shelf it marks a reaffirmation of storytelling as a powerful mirror of Malawi’s social fabric.
