This is the third volume of The Gerald Kraak Anthology, The Heart of the Matter. With the prize ceremony linked to Africa Day, the publication of the anthology is tied to the Pride Month of June and the celebrations of the LGBTQI+ community which occur across the globe. The Heart of the Matter is a collection of the 21 shortlisted entries, chosen by this year’s judges; Sisonke Msimang, Sylvia Tamale, Mark Gevisser and Otosirieze Obi-Young, from over 400 submissions received from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and six other African countries. It showcases some of the most provocative works of fiction, poetry and non-fiction. The winning essay "Mothers and Men” by OluTimehin Adegbeye truly captures the essence of the African LGBTQI+ community. The anthology showcases some of Africa’s most talented writers. The unique prize calls for multi-layered, stirring African voices