Imfihlo Yomndeni unveils father’s struggle with family secrets

IsiNdebele author Pascar Ncube has addressed deep-rooted family issues in his latest book, Imfihlo Yomndeni which was launched at a restaurant in Tsholotsho last month.

The narrative delves into the complexities of family dynamics, highlighting the consequences of harbouring secrets.

The storyline follows a man who discovers later in life that he is not the biological father of his three grown-up children. His family, including his aunt, had been aware of his infertility and introduced his cousin to play the role of the biological father for reproduction purposes.

“The three children were given names that later became a source of profound questioning for their supposed father. Within the community, whispers and mocking remarks surfaced during gatherings, casting doubt on the man’s biological connection to his offsprings,” said Ncube.

As the truth unravels, the man grapples with the revelation leading to a conflict that involves burning his cousin’s homestead in anger.

“The weight of uncertainty becomes a relentless burden, plaguing the man with sleepless nights. The revelation that his first-born was named Imfihlo (secret) and the third born was called Mpambaniso (mistake) intensified the internal turmoil. Fuelled by the mounting confusion, he confronted his wife about the cryptic names, sparking a familial war that escalated to the point where he, consumed by anger, set fire to his cousin’s homestead.”

Ncube draws parallels between past and present family dynamics, exploring cultural customs where, in the past, impotent men would have a family member assume conjugal duties to ensure procreation and uphold the family’s dignity and legacy. However, in the book, this cultural practice has detrimental effects on the family, leading to mistreatment of the children.

Imfihlo Yomndeni, published by Ingwalo Ezingasoze Zabuna Publishers, also sheds light on the impact of Gender-Based Violence.

Pascar Ncube, an advocate for collaboration, has not only penned several books but has also published works for other authors under Ingwalo Ezingasoze Zabuna Publishers. Some notable titles include collaborations with Philani Gama, Liseli Nyathi, Patient Ndumiso Sokhela KaMbalamuntu, Phelelani Ndlovu, Belladonna Moyo, Prince Sibanda, Godknows Ngwenya and Silethubuhle Gumpo.

Ncube, showing no signs of slowing down, is already collaborating with Phathisani Dube on a literary project scheduled for publication next month. – @MbuleloMpofu