Two well-known local authors, Derrick Hlungwani of Ha-Mashamba village and Sydwell Mthombeni of Bungeni village, collaborated and wrote a poetry anthology in Xitsonga, with the goal of conserving the Xitsonga language. The book, titled Vulombe Bya Rixaka (The Honey of the Tribe), delivers encouragement, particularly to the young.
The 40-poem anthology, published by the Writers Corner Institute, took the two authors five months to pen down. Derrick explained what had inspired them to write this anthology. "Our motivation stemmed from our deep love of the Xitsonga language. Through writing this book, we wanted to explore exciting words that are not commonly used," he said.
According to Derrick, Vulombe Bya Rixaka also teaches the young to value education and reject peer pressure. "The book will go a long way in preserving our Xitsonga language and ensuring language development," he said.
Sydwell, who is the founder of the Writers Corner Institute, said that the book was intended to have a significant influence on society through its educative warnings and admonitions, particularly to the young generation. "We called our book Vulombe Bya Rixaka, which does not refer to real honey but to the honour and preservation of our indigenous African languages. We are focused on publishing books for underprivileged people here in Mzansi," he said.
To purchase their book, visit Amazon.co.za, or call Sydwell on 063 712 3855 or Derrick on 076 712 0047.