LIMPOPO – “What if the greatest inheritance passed down through generations is not wealth or land, but a mindset? And what if that mindset is the very thing holding a generation back?”

These are the bold questions raised by 29-year-old Cliford Rihlampfu from Lulekani in his debut book, The Fortune of the Last Generation, a thought-provoking work that confronts the errors society has inherited from its ancestors and calls for urgent correction. The book was officially released on Saturday, February 21.

Rihlampfu said the book was born out of deep observation and personal experience. After travelling to various places and engaging with different communities, he began to notice patterns in how people participate in the economy and society.

“I realised it is like we have been brainwashed. You only begin to see it clearly when you are no longer on the same level or in the same league. That is when you understand how mindset shapes everything,” he explained.

In the book, he explores what he describes as inherited social and economic behaviours that limit growth. However, the book does not merely criticise, it proposes rectification.

According to Rihlampfu, the message of the title aligns strongly with the content, focusing on building a path of fortune that can last for decades.

“This book is about rescuing our generation from the bandage of a poor mindset. We need to correct the system by first correcting how we think,” he said.

Moreover, the young author highlighted that completing the manuscript was no easy task. It took him two years to finish the book, largely because he struggled to find uninterrupted time and focus. Writing demanded full commitment, but he also faced discouragement from those around him.

“My circle told me writing books is for people from the West, not for people like us who were previously disadvantaged and born in villages without fancy English,” he said.

Instead of surrendering to doubt, Rihlampfu used the criticism as motivation. He remained focussed on his purpose, not to impress but to impact. Though this is his first publication, his vision was never about fame or a glamorous book launch. It was about planting a seed, especially among young people who may doubt their potential because of where they come from.

“This book is not about how long you preach; it is about what you say. People can talk for a long time and still say nothing. I wanted to publish a book with sense, not just to break a record. I hope the younger generation can obtain light and go shine out there with a new vision,” he added.

Currently, copies of The Fortune of the Last Generation are available directly from Rihlampfu. Plans are underway to make the book available in bookstores and online platforms, with the process still in progress. Call him at 066 328 3727.