Zambian Author Inducted into the Library of Congress.
Elton Nyirenda, a music teacher with over 27 years of experience, has reached an incredible milestone in his career. Currently teaching at Chengelo Secondary School, Mr. Nyirenda has become one of only three Zambian authors to have their work included in the prestigious Library of Congress, the world’s largest library based in Washington, DC.
His book, The History of Akalindula, published in 2023 under Zambian ARTS Publishing House, has earned recognition as a key work in Zambian musical history. The book offers a detailed account of Kalindula music, tracing its origins and showing how it has changed over the years. It also highlights the role different cultural influences have played in shaping this unique genre, making it an important resource for understanding the broader context of Zambia’s musical landscape.
Beyond its historical focus, The History of Akalindula explores how music in Zambia has intersected with politics, economics, and cultural movements over time. Nyirenda’s work shows how music has been a reflection of the country’s struggles and triumphs, demonstrating the powerful impact that art can have on a nation’s identity.
This achievement places Mr. Nyirenda alongside fellow Zambian authors Soyapi Mapulanga, who wrote The Ancestral Codex, and Jimmy Kayika, author of Venus. Both authors had their works inducted into the Library of Congress earlier this year. For Mr. Nyirenda and Zambian ARTS Publishing House, this is not just a personal victory—it’s a major win for Zambian literature as a whole.
Nyirenda’s book will now be available to readers, researchers, and academics worldwide through the Library of Congress. It stands as one of the most thoroughly researched works to be published by Zambian ARTS Publishing House, offering a deep understanding of Kalindula music’s significance. This achievement is a source of pride not only for Mr. Nyirenda and his publishing team but for the Zambian authorship community and the nation.
Congratulations to Mr. Elton Nyirenda and the entire Zambian ARTS Publishing House team on this remarkable accomplishment. Securing a place in such a competitive global space is no small feat, and it represents a major leap forward for Zambia’s presence in the world of literature.
For those interested in obtaining a copy of The History of Akalindula, you can reach out to Zambian ARTS Publishing House to learn more. This incredible work is now available for anyone looking to explore Zambia’s rich musical heritage.
References from the Library of Congress available here.