AN author from Kwa Bhaca (Mount Frere), Abongile Ngqoleka (25) has published his first book, Nakhane.
Even though he is from Kwa Bhaca, he currently resides in Alice since he is still a full-time post-graduate student at the University of Fort Hare.
According to Ngqoleka, Nakhane is a Xhosa name which means, “Build each other”.
He said this interpretation reflects a communal and supportive ethos, emphasising the importance of mutual upliftment within relationships and families.
“This book focuses on important issues such as gender-based violence, rape, the killing of people with albinism, homophobia, the challenges faced by orphaned children, teenage pregnancy, gender equality, and being raised by single parents,” he said.
According to him, the purpose of this book is to raise awareness about the prevalence of violence against women and the urgent need to address this issue within society.
He added that it serves as a poignant tribute to his sister’s life, and serves as a call for collective action to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
“This book is a work of both fiction and non-fiction, and I firmly believe that this book has the potential to make a positive impact on society, by sparking important conversations, promoting empathy, and driving change.
“A book is never finished; there’s always something to add, but I would say it took me two years to finish it.
“Some of the delays occurred because I was still trying to get myself into the writing industry as an independent author, mainly self-published, and it was my first book, so I had a lot to learn before its actual publication,” said Ngqoleka.
According to him, this book was self-funded through the savings of his National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) allowances; secondly, Published Afrika offered to edit it ffree and offered mentorship here and there.
He said it is now out, but his main challenge lies in the lack of financial resources to support the book launch, and its further promoting; however, he believes that God is going to make a way.
