Kinshasa, May 13th, 2026 (CPA).– The 8th edition of the literary competition known as the “Zamenga Literary Prize,” an initiative aimed at promoting Congolese literature, was officially launched on Wednesday during a press conference held at the library of the Wallonia-Brussels Centre, in northern Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). “Today, May
13th, we are officially launching the competition for the 8th edition of our literary contest called the Zamenga Literary Prize. Since 2016, we have been running this project. From 2016 to 2026, that makes ten years. We are therefore celebrating the 10th anniversary of this competition, as well as a special edition marking the 40th anniversary of the Centre,” said Richard Ali, Director of the library of the Wallonia-Brussels Centre. He stressed that this year carries special significance, marked by a dual cultural celebration. “It is a festive year in which we will celebrate culture here at the Wallonia-Brussels Centre. We have 10 years of the prize, as well as 40 years of existence of the Centre and its library,” he added. For Richard Ali, the Zamenga Prize has become a genuine springboard for Congolese writers, helping to discover new literary talents. He specified that the 2026 edition stands out due to the absence of a set theme, leaving full creative freedom to participants. “The Zamenga Prize serves as a springboard for Congolese writers. It has helped reveal several literary gems in Kinshasa through this competition, which pursues several objectives,” he added.
This short story competition, intended for young Congolese under the age of 40, aims notably to honor the memory of writer Zamenga Batukezanga, promote reading and access to books, and stimulate public interest in Congolese literature. It also serves as a framework for discovering and promoting new talents, encouraging cultural exchange, and creating a space for interaction between writers, readers, and publishing professionals. The library director further indicated that this edition is special due to the dual celebration of the 10th anniversary of the competition and the 40th anniversary of the Wallonia-Brussels Centre and its library. “This edition is special because it marks both 40 years of the Centre and 10 years of the Zamenga Prize. Last year there was a set theme, but this year we are giving full freedom to the participants’ imagination,” he specified. A special category is also open to secondary school students. Submissions must be sent exclusively by email, allowing participation from Congolese living in provinces and abroad. The deadline for submitting entries is set for July 30th, 2026. Results will be announced during the Kinshasa literary season opening in September.