ADVERTISEMENT:

 

Xitsonga poets celebrate International Year of Indigenous Languages

Read: 1726

As part of the celebration of the 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages, as declared by the United Nations, a group of six young, up-and-coming poets have put together an anthology of poems entitled I ndlopfu ya hina.

The title can be literally translated as “It is our elephant”.

Poets featured in the anthology are Miyelani Anthonia Hlungwani, Msengi Patrick Khosa, Matimba Elliot Miyambo, Hluvukani Honours Mashimbye, Javulani Collen Chauke and Vongani Landro Mathebula.

I ndlopfu ya hina was published by TP Magaisa Publishers in October 2019.

“The anthology is a call to the Vatsonga to get everyone involved in working towards a better solution to promote and develop our language, Xitsonga, regardless of gender, age and other social divides,” said Hlungwani.

This anthology is clear evidence that the poets had mobilised to address various social problems in their immediate environment. “It covers most, if not all, the challenges of this modern life, such as the significance of education, issues of politics, divorce, and issues of leadership,” he said. “We need to make it fashionable to write in our own language.”

The authors employ strategies that help in creating mental pictures, such as metaphors, similes, sarcasm, personification and hyperbole. “Again, the authors use the standardised words and the new spelling and orthography rules recommended by the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) in line with Xitsonga,” he said.

Another poet, Javulani Collen Chauke, said: “Our core aim as poets is very explicit. Let's encourage the culture of reading, developing and preserving our indigenous languages, because they describe who we are as a people.”

Publisher Themba Patrick Magaisa, well known as TP Magaisa in his writings, said that the anthology was a must-have for all those who wanted to enjoy the richness of the Xitsonga language. “This anthology is one of the best publications that I am continuing to issue for and by young authors,” he said. “The future looks bright to all the poets who contributed to this anthology.”

Those interested in I ndlopfu ya hina can call 084 978 1216 or follow Miyelani Anthonia Hlungwani on Facebook.

 

 
 

In the picture are (from left to right, at the back) are Msengi Patrick Khosa and Vongani Landro Mathebula. Front: Miyelani Anthonia Hlungwani and Javulani Collen Chauke. Photo supplied.

 

By: Tshifhiwa Mukwevho

Tshifhiwa Given Mukwevho was born in 1984 in Madombidzha village, not far from Louis Trichardt in the Limpopo Province. After submitting articles for roughly a year for Limpopo Mirror's youth supplement, Makoya, he started writing for the main newspaper. He is a prolific writer who published his first book, titled A Traumatic Revenge in 2011. It focusses on life on the street and how to survive amidst poverty. His second book titled The Violent Gestures of Life was published in 2014.

 

ADVERTISEMENT

 

ADVERTISEMENT:

 

Fhulufhelo supports her family with her bead crafting skills

Entertainment: 24 March 2024 By Kaizer Nengovhela

Ms. Fhulufhelo Thabo, who resides in Phadzima, supports her children by crafting traditional items with beads. “In my work, I create necklaces, keyholders, and bracelets made from beads. Some of the beadwork is done in colours that tourists love,” she says.

Elders preserve culture through indigenous musical instruments

Entertainment: 24 March 2024

Against the backdrop of globalisation's sway over traditional cultures, a remarkable effort has surfaced in the heart of the Vhembe District. Led by elders deeply connected to their heritage, the African Indigenous Instrument Preservation NPC has stepped into the spotlight. This group, consisting of seasoned musicians from various Limpopo communities, convenes bi-monthly at Thohoyandou Arts and Culture Centre. Rejecting modern influences, they stand as guardians of African indigenous music, committed to preserving its essence for future generations.

Rhumba star Scoco's new album elevates her to new heights

Entertainment: 23 March 2024 By Elmon Tshikhudo

Popular Vhembe Rhumba star Tshifhiwa Mathoni, better known as Scoco Vrumpha Muimbi, nearly quit music after struggling to accept the death of her mother. But she has bounced back and released another new album.

Vhudie strikes gold again with heart-warming love anthem

Entertainment: 23 March 2024 By Thembi Siaga

Renowned Idols singer Vhudie, the mastermind behind the chart-topping hit “Yoki Yoki,” has once again captured hearts with his latest release, “Smile Bbe”, featuring FUZA and DJ LP LEVEL. Vhudie’s song, which debuted on Wednesday, 6 March, is already garnering exceptional feedback on platforms such as Spotify, solidifying Vhudie’s position within the musical circle.

ADVERTISEMENT