Online Reporter
Youth Interactive Correspondent
VARIOUS stakeholders have commended global speaker, author and health entrepreneur Dr Tatenda Matirongo’s children’s book, “Rotai the Dreamer”, which was launched last Saturday at Greystone Park in Harare.
Speaking to The Saturday Herald on the sidelines of the book launch, Wellington Biningu from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said the new book is an important addition to Zimbabwean literature given its theme and storyline.
“We commend Dr Matirongo for this new book, which is rich in content and speaks to the very important aspect of education 5.0, which promotes exploration of natural resources for the national good.
The story of “Rotai the Dreamer”, who changed his community’s fortunes through tilling the land, is exemplary. We also commend that the book encourages young people to dream despite their circumstances and as a ministry, we commend Dr Matirongo’s work,” Biningu said.
Other speakers who included religious leaders and members of the diplomatic community, equally commended Matirongo’s work highlighting that her literary works are encouraging and tailored for community good.
Speaking to The Herald, an ecstatic Dr Matirongo commended the various guests and kids who attended the book launch, making it an unforgettable event of family fun.
“This was an unforgettable family celebration with activities and attractions that catered to children and parents, the event successfully embodied my vision of fostering a love for reading and inspiring young minds,” she said.
“The atmosphere was electric as families arrived to enjoy a variety of fun-filled activities, including jumping castles, water slides, quad biking, horse riding, and virtual reality games.
“The event not only celebrated the launch of my latest but also created a vibrant community space where families could bond over shared experiences.”
In her keynote address, Matirongo emphasized the transformative power of storytelling highlighting that the new book is transformational in nature.
“Every story begins with a seed in the mind of the creator. The book, ‘Rotai The Dreamer’, is transformational.
It highlights the idea that children can cultivate their dreams regardless of their environment. Rotai’s journey from a social outcast to a community catalyst, from a dreamer to a cultivator, highlights endless possibilities,” she said.
Dr Matirongo also told The Herald that “Rotai the Dreamer” is her second published work, with the third one coming later in the year, and that the new book belongs to every avid reader.
“The book belongs to all who encounter it. It illustrates that the border between opposites is fertile ground — the tension between what hurts and what heals,
Through it, I encourage families to embrace the challenges of life, saying. It’s important to write down what you want to do. The measure of our lives is not found in the absence of barren patches but in the desire to plant something. It takes the courage of attention and the persistence of your care,” she said.
The participation of various exhibitors showcasing children-related products and services enriched the experience, offering families resources to support their children’s development further. Life coaching sessions from guest speakers added a valuable dimension, providing insights into personal growth and parenting.
The success of the launch was not just in the numbers but in the laughter, joy, and hope shared among families. Her vision of instilling a culture of reading and dreaming big had come to life, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
