Mashudu Nemadzivhani from Khubvi published his fourth inspirational book, called Phaṱhelamabu, in February this year. The book addresses many issues that widows are faced with when their husbands die and goes deep into explaining the emotional and physical abuse many widows suffer at the hands of their deceased partners' families.
The 34-year-old author started his schooling at Mbulu Junior Primary and went on to Khubvi Senior Primary and Tshilungwi Primary schools. He passed his Grade 12 at Thathe Secondary School.
His love of writing started when he was 14 years old and wrote dramas for entertainment during various community events. "My love for writing only grew. I found myself seeking more knowledge about writing books, and so far, I have published my fourth book. My first book, The Road to Damascus, won The African Authors award in 2019. In 2020, I published my second book, titled Surviving Damascus, and in 2021 I wrote Vhaṱali, which also won the African Authors Award that same year," he said.
About his latest book, Nemadzivhani explains that the situation around losing a husband can also have a negative impact on children's social lives. "At the end of it all, Phaṱhelamabu reminds widowed women that they have the power to change their situations. But that power works better if they use it, not to fight those who are making their lives difficult, but to fight with their former selves, so they can be better people who can't be touched by those who are persecuting them anymore. It also seeks to send a message to men, that the lives they live should show some respect to how they want their families to be when they are no more," he said.
The book is available directly from the author and in books shops around the Vhembe area.