Chronicle Editor
Sandisiwe Gumbo, Sunday Life Reporter
WHILE some writers might shun their indigenous languages, Mihla Sitsha, a renowned isiNdebele author, has dedicated his writing career to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of his mother tongue.
Inspired by the works of Ndabezinhle Sigogo, Sitsha (44) has authored approximately 30 books, including novels, poetry collections, and folktales. His literary contributions have not only gained recognition through awards but have also become an integral part of the educational curriculum at universities and high schools in Zimbabwe.
Sitsha’s first book, “Wangenza Mntanami,” was adopted as a set book for O-level students, studied at both the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) and Great Zimbabwe University (GZU). The novel explores themes of identity, tradition, and the challenges faced by young individuals in a rapidly changing world. It serves as a powerful tool for students to connect with their cultural roots while navigating the influences of westernisation.
In an effort to ensure that future generations embrace their culture and language, Sitsha hopes that his books being studied in schools will capture the attention of young readers. By incorporating his works into the educational system, he believes that students will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for their heritage.
“If you look at today’s generation, gradually they have adopted the Western culture. This means that in 40 years to come the Ndebele culture will be unknown. For the sack of identity of who we are and where we are coming from, I was attracted and got interested in writing about culture and traditions. Use of some of my books as set books at schools and also the study of my recent published textbook will draw attention to students and impact their generation to love their culture. My books are written in pure Ndebele that makes young generation enjoy the language.”
Sitsha’s literary achievements extend beyond the classroom. Some of his books have been featured on radio stations, allowing a wider audience to engage with his stories and gain insights into Ndebele culture. His book Esilojeni was read in 2018 in Radio Zimbabwe, while Untokolotshi was read in Skyz Metro Fm.
His other books that were set books include Imisebe yelanga (contributed poems in the book). It was an O-level set book and also studied at Hillside Teachers’ College and United Teachers’ College. Esilojeni was a set book at UZ as well as Igugu likazulu (Poetry anthology).
The author’s dedication to preserving cultural traditions has not gone unnoticed, as he has been honoured with prestigious awards for his outstanding contributions to literature.
“I won the Bulawayo Arts Awards in two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021. I also won an intercontinental award held in Cameroon in the year 2021. The award was under the Pan African Cultural Festival (Panafes). I was awarded with the Youth Pan Africanist award. In 2000 I also won the third prize in the literal competition by Zimbabwe Children’s literature Foundation. The first prize went to B D Ndlovu. I have won the award for outstanding Ndebele literary work. Books that won were Untokolotshi and Ngubani owabulala uDube. In 2018 I was nominated in the Bulaway Awards for the book Akuqili lazikhotha indololwane.”
The journey towards becoming a celebrated author has not been without its challenges. The author started writing when he was in Form Three in 1994. He was learning at Ihlathi High School in Tshabalala, Bulawayo.
Sitsha is the chairperson of Ikhaya labalobi and the national secretary of Zana — Zimbabwean Academic and non-fiction Authors Association. His latest endeavor involves the creation of a new textbook that aligns with the updated education curriculum in the country. This initiative aims to provide students with contemporary narratives that reflect their experiences and aspirations while still preserving the essence of Ndebele culture.
“I am happy because I have written the textbook. It’s a huge milestone to me. The young generation needs to be proud of their culture, they need to embrace it and be eager to learn more. There is a lot that needs to be written about our culture. There is a gap that needs to be filled through writing,” expressed Sitsha.
The new textbook is for Form One students titled Inotho, with 30 chapters. He plans to continue writing about various aspects of Ndebele culture, ensuring that future generations have access to a comprehensive collection of literature that celebrates their heritage.
“There are plans to write more books about culture. Children no longer recognise our culture. A lot has to be done.”
Reflecting on his journey as an author, Sitsha describes it as both challenging and interesting. He acknowledges the importance of literature in preserving cultural identity and hopes that his writing will inspire others to explore and embrace their own heritage.
“It’s a challenge that is interesting. What is required is to know where to catch the young generation. They are addicted to social media. I post my novels on Facebook and they read. They praise me for writing interesting and educative stories.”
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