The third cycle of the DSAC Publishing Hub launched on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Pretoria. The event celebrated 21 new manuscripts selected for publication, marking a significant step in preserving the nation’s literary heritage.
An initiative of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association (ANFACA), the Publishing Hub supports authors, publishers, and language experts from concept to finished book. Its mission is to preserve all South African official languages, promote social cohesion, and amplify marginalised voices. The program provides workshops, financial support, and produces works in various formats, including print, audio, and braille. Since its founding in 2024, the Publishing Hub has produced 91 published works.
The 2025/26 call for submissions received 445 entries. The 21 selected manuscripts represent 26 authors, 10 publishing houses, and 31 language experts. This cycle will produce 8 physical books, 7 audiobooks, and 6 braille editions, ensuring these stories reach a wide and diverse audience. The participating publishing houses are Epublishing and Digital Displays, Helpmyworld Publishing, Muzi Womzabalazo, Mbokodo Publishers, Mighty Griener Pastures General Trading, Masibulele Online, Sun Peo, Penthouse Press, Xarra Books, and Zamaniphuti Publishers.
The 2025/26 cohort selected were Bhekisisa Baas, Boitumelo Edward Nkunyane, Bonile Ngqiyaza, Bontle Sikelelwa, Dianna Daniels-Hugo, Constance Mary Mkomi, Esme George Manakane, Hisiziyani Antonette Shiburi, John Mogageloa Maqubela, Mathews Malefane, Lusanda Phakane, Mbalana Sibillo Phakane, Nomcebo Cele, Nombulelo Caroline Sicolo-Koza, Odirile Sibanda, Phuthunedzo Netsheshulu, Puleboeng Antonio Mkhansi, Phuluso Dave Netshakhobalo, Siphokazi Dweba, Themba Emanuel Mashabane, Thuli Rose Khosa, Thobile Blessing Morokolo, Tindzui Mukhweho, and Zengele Vusani Mathebula.
“Each selected manuscript contributes meaningfully to our cultural record and reflects voices that deserve to be heard, preserved and promoted,” said Comeinda Mokoena, Director of Books & Publishing at DSAC. “This year’s participants reaffirm the role of literature as a tool for nation-building.”
Professor Sihawukele Ngubane, Chairman of ANFASA, added, “As we welcome this cohort, we recognise the collective creativity, discipline and cultural insight represented across their manuscripts. The DSAC Publishing Hub will ensure that unique voices from all backgrounds have access to fair, dignified and sustainable pathways into the publishing ecosystem.”
The launch event was attended by the newly published authors, language practitioners, literary experts, and key industry stakeholders.
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