a day ago
Giyani author champions Xitsonga through writing
LIMPOPO – Nhlulo Mtileni, a 20-year-old author from Nkuri village near Giyani, is on a mission to inspire young people to write in their mother tongue. He believes that writing in indigenous languages allows for authentic self-expression while preserving cultural heritage.
Mtileni began his writing journey at just 12 years old in 2017. Since then, he has authored four books and contributed to three co-writing projects. His published works include three poetry collections, N'winyi wa Nkosi, Vurila Xintserere, and When the Game is Over We Shall All Return Home, and a novel titled Rila Moya Wanga. All were published in 2025, except N'winyi wa Nkosi, which won both the Xitsonga Literary Award and the African Honoree Authors Award in 2024.
'I started writing in Gr 6 while in primary school,' he said. 'I was encouraged by the late Moses Mtileni, an author who had a deep passion for writing in Xitsonga.'
Mtileni credits authors Nghetlenge Case Ngobeni and Vonani Bila as his role models. 'They understand the value of language and culture. They take their time with their craft, ensuring they deliver quality work. Their dedication inspires me to stay committed to my writing journey,' he said.
Looking to the future, Mtileni has big dreams. 'I want my books to be widely known and to inspire other young authors. More than anything, I want my work to help strengthen the presence of the Xitsonga language in people's hearts.'
For more information about his books, Mtileni can be contacted on WhatsApp at 079 658 6744 or 073 564 5999, by email at moseskhaizen@ or through social media: @Dzumba Nhlulo on TikTok and @Nhlulo Dzumba on Facebook.
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