Alberton-based author Phuti Seboni is preparing to launch his fourth book, Gobaneng Hle, Tate? a heartfelt Sepedi story inspired by the realities many children face growing up without fathers.

The title translates to Why Dad? reflecting the central question asked by a child in the story.

Seboni said the book was motivated by the growing number of children left struggling after their fathers abandoned their families.

“I want people to understand the pain children go through when a father leaves home. A lot of young people are stranded in life because of the absence of fathers,” Seboni explained.

Seboni revealed that he initially planned to write a history book about his grandfather earlier this year.
However, because the project required copyright approvals and agreements from family members, the process became delayed.

He then decided to begin writing Gobaneng Hle, Tate? completing the book over three months.

The story follows a man named Thokolo wa Bokone, who leaves his wife and children behind after relocating to Gauteng for work.

After becoming involved with another woman, he cuts contact with his family completely, leaving them trapped in poverty and struggling to survive.

“The family depended on him. When he changed his number and disappeared, life became difficult for them. The children grew up suffering while he was living comfortably somewhere else,” Seboni said.

Through the book, Seboni hopes to encourage children facing similar circumstances while also challenging fathers to take responsibility for their families.

“I want to motivate kids and show them that it’s possible to succeed even if you grow up without a father. I also want boys to learn to take care of their mothers,” he said.

The emotional impact of writing the story affected Seboni personally.

Seboni also reflected on how poverty affects the dignity of struggling families.

“In our society, people often don’t respect those who are poor. Children from disadvantaged homes get bullied at school, sometimes even by teachers. Homes without fathers are often treated differently.”

The book also explores consequences later in life, as the father eventually returns home old and alone after losing everything, only to find that his children have become successful without him.

Seboni hopes the story will open conversations around responsible fatherhood and the long-term emotional effects abandonment has on children and families.

The official launch of Gobaneng Hle, Tate? will take place on May 16 at AMPD Studios, Newtown Junction Mall, Johannesburg, from 12:30 to 13:30.

Entrance is free and signed copies of the book will be sold for R300.

Special guests include Macks Papo and Oupa Manamela, while the event will be hosted by Katlego Legodi from SABC News.