Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Beitbridge-born author Brenda Muleya continues to make inroads beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, with her acclaimed novel Rivers of Tears recently reviewed in South Africa, further cementing her growing literary influence in the region.
The book was reviewed by Junior Ngoetjana, a learner at Makgodu Private School, as part of the Funda Mzantsi reading and review competition, organised by South Africa’s Department of Sports, Arts and Culture.
Ngoetjana said she chose to review Rivers of Tears because of its powerful and relevant themes that reflect pressing social realities.
“Gender-based violence is not just a thing of the past or an issue limited to South Africa, it remains a major problem, especially in patriarchal societies. Mashudu’s story teaches us that silence is never the solution. We should never suffer in silence in the name of endurance,” she said.
Rivers of Tears explores complex themes of abuse, resilience, and empowerment, telling the story of Mashudu, a woman whose painful journey sheds light on the importance of speaking out and breaking cycles of violence.
For Muleya, the recognition of her work beyond Zimbabwe is both humbling and encouraging.
“I feel so honoured and humbled to be recognised in a foreign country. It’s something I never imagined, especially because I didn’t receive the same recognition at home. First, one of my books was selected as a setbook in South Africa, and now Rivers of Tears is being reviewed as part of a major literary initiative,” she said.
Muleya’s growing footprint in the Southern African literary landscape is a testament to the universality of her writing, which continues to resonate with readers across borders and cultures. – Follow on X @mthabisi_mthire
