We’re thrilled to announce that the 4th Funda Mpondo Literary Festival has been featured in the prestigious Publish’d Afrika “Magazine—”Redefining Africa’s Narrative.”
Bridging Generations Through the Power of Stories
The magazine highlights our festival’s unique mission: using storytelling to bridge generational divides and preserve our rich cultural heritage. Taking place September 3-4, 2025, at the Lusikisiki Health Resource Centre in the Eastern Cape, this year’s theme is “Bridging Generations Through Tales of the Past, Present, and Future.”
What Makes This Festival Special
As featured in the article, our festival truly embodies the “Play Your Part” philosophy by creating meaningful connections across age groups. The coverage emphasises how we’re
- Preserving Cultural Heritage: Through our “My Grandmother’s Story” initiative, partnering with the National Heritage Council to collect and preserve invaluable oral traditions
- Fostering Intergenerational Dialogue: Bringing together elders, middle-aged individuals, and youth to share perspectives and build mutual understanding
- Promoting Active Citizenship: Encouraging community engagement through our “Play Your Part” corner sessions
A Celebration of African Literature
The festival will open with the National Anthem by Jamakazi Bazana and feature creative talents from across the continent—America, Malawi, Ghana, Botswana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa.
Featured Authors & Book Launches
We’re excited to host conversations and book launches with renowned authors, including:
- “The Right to Live a Full Life” by Tobe Thabede
- “Mogau” by Mogau Letswalo
- “Ndamitha Njani Singadibanangu” by Nozibele Maqutywa
- “Masiqhuke Kusakhuyu Kusakhuyu” by Nomonde Makheswa Makaula
Recognition of Our Impact
The article features a special quote from Nomawele Njongo, our Festival Curator and Organiser, who is also a distinguished National Heritage Ambassador, 2024 National Voice of Heritage Award winner, and Brand South Africa Play Your Part Ambassador:
“The Funda Mpondo Literary Festival truly embodies ‘Play Your Part’ by using storytelling to bridge generational divides. We’re creating spaces for connection and safeguarding our collective heritage. Partnering with the National Heritage Council on ‘My Grandmother’s Story’ directly contributes to preserving invaluable oral traditions. At the same time, our youth engagement actively supports youth empowerment.”
Our Mission in Action
As a beacon for literary excellence and intergenerational connection in the Eastern Cape, the Funda Mpondo Literary Festival continues to span the generational chasm through shared narratives. We’re dedicated to promoting literature, fostering a love for reading, and facilitating dialogue across generations through storytelling and literary arts.
Join Us in Making History
This recognition in Publish’d Afrika Magazine validates our commitment to preserving Africa’s rich storytelling traditions while building bridges between generations. We invite you to be part of this transformative experience that celebrates our past, embraces our present, and shapes our future.
Mark your calendars: September 3-4, 2025, Lusikisiki Health Resource Centre, Eastern Cape
For more information about the festival, contact:
- Nomawele Njongo (Curator and Festival Organizer): info@kwazithina.co.za
- Media Inquiries: Lutho Dolosi at pr@kwazithina.co.za
#FundaMpondoLiteraryFestival #BridgingGenerations #AfricanLiterature #PlayYourPart #HeritagePreservation #PublishdAfrika