During the 'Voices of isiZulu' panel discussion at the Glenwood Book Fair in Durban, Dr. Nkandjani Sibiya, an academic and poet, stated that authors writing in isiZulu should not be considered second-rate compared to authors working in other languages.
Sibiya emphasized that he writes in isiZulu by choice, not because he feels uncomfortable working in other languages. He welcomed the book fair's decision to provide isiZulu authors with a worthy platform instead of viewing them as secondary participants.
The discussion, which took place on the second day of the fair organized by former media executive Vasanta Angamutu, was held at the Mazisi Kunene Museum in Glenwood. The moderator was Sandile Mdadane, an editor from the National Media Group.
During the broad discussion, Sibiya agreed with Sindiswa Zulu's concerns about the lack of interest in reading isiZulu literature. However, he suggested adapting to new market conditions where the audience increasingly prefers short-form content, similar to how it is practiced in social media in the form of 'story time'. Sibiya, who has written, co-authored, and translated over 50 books, noted that one does not necessarily have to write extensively.
Zulu, who publishes poetry weekly on social media, insisted on the need for authors to maintain the authenticity of the language. Professor Nomphumelelo Zondi drew attention to the problem of declining student interest in reading, noting that isiZulu faces particular difficulties.
The panelists also discussed the role of literature in countering gender-based violence amid recent murders in eKurhuleni. Authors explored how writers can use the power of the pen to change behavior and attitudes. Ayanda Mchunu, who writes extensively about marriage, divorce, and legal victories, touched upon the topic of gender-based violence, asserting that women should avoid dependence on men. However, Dlamini disputed this view, pointing out that some of the most serious problems begin in the family, and gender-based violence cannot be solely attributed to women's dependence on men.
Dlamini, whose novel was adapted into a radio play for Ukhozi FM by SABC, stated that parents must take greater responsibility for raising children, as educators dedicate limited time to students while observing anxious behavior in some of them.
Matabo Kunene, widow of Professor Mazisi Kunene, urged Sibiya and other authors to study more than 10,000 works by the late freedom fighter and poetry laureate, and to edit them to give them modern relevance. Kunene noted how surprising it was that she and her husband were able to raise children abroad without losing their knowledge of isiZulu, while some Zulu tribal parents have children who do not speak the language.
The Glenwood Book Fair concludes today at the Pansy Museum, where a program featuring authors and scholars such as Professor Ashwin Desai, lawyer Linda Zuma, Kiru Naidu, and Dudu Busani is scheduled. Dr. Devi Rajab will also participate, and Eric Appelgren will lead a discussion on the significance of being South African.