One of the topics in discussing literature emanating from the African continent is the use of language. Should we use the language of our former colonizers or should we use indigenous languages? This question of language is not only relevant in the field of literature but also relevant in the field of everyday life, for … Continue reading The fading use of indigenous languages in African households
Mukoma wa Ngugi: what decolonizing the mind means today
It has become a topic that is linked with the Kenyan writer Ngugi wa Thiongo. The relation between literature, language and colonialism. The topic has not been finished yet. His son Mukoma writes in this article about it. He harks back to the days that his father discovered the need to write in his mother … Continue reading Mukoma wa Ngugi: what decolonizing the mind means today
isiZulu literature gets a boost
The South African scenery of languages is multi-facetted. Many language make it possible for people to communicate, but the opposite is possible as well. Crossing linguistic barriers is often difficult, especially when smaller languages compete for attention. What about isiZulu, one of the many languages in South Africa. Kwasukela Books, a young publishing house, want … Continue reading isiZulu literature gets a boost
There are 2,144 African languages, using them in our universities will help, not hinder youth
In the world of African literature one of the recurring themes is the use of which language. Is a writer bound by a ‘colonial’ language? A language he learned at school, a language he perfected at university, but a language that often is his or her second or third language. The same theme applies to … Continue reading There are 2,144 African languages, using them in our universities will help, not hinder youth
A Q & A with the isiZulu translator of George’s Secret Key to the Universe
A translator is a hidden force in the world of literature. The name of the translator will be mentioned, together with other technical information, preferably in very small print. Here are some questions and answers with a translator. His name is Phiwayinkosi Mbuyazi.
Wie is ons sonder ons tale?
Where would we be without our languages? Maybe you only speak and read English. Others have two or more languages at their disposal. Some languages have millions and millions speakers. Other languages are at the brink of extinction. Some languages have many speakers, but they are in a position of a minority. In South Africa … Continue reading Wie is ons sonder ons tale?
books touched by Africa 