This initiative celebrates champions of siSwati and isiNdebele literature, bringing together 15 selected authors whose contributions have enriched South Africa’s literary landscape through diverse perspectives and lived experiences.

According the Mbokodo Publishers’ CEO, Richard Mbokodo, the anthology is rooted in the promotion of inclusion, accessibility and linguistic pride, reflecting Mbokodo Publishers’ long-standing commitment to creating equitable publishing opportunities for writers from different backgrounds and abilities.

“The inclusion of visually impaired authors strengthens the project’s inclusive ethos, highlighting the importance of accessible creative spaces and recognising disability as a source of insight, resilience and literary excellence.”

Mbokodo said that beyond publication, the project serves as a platform for innovation and learning. “Participating authors will be introduced to Book Buddy AI, a publishing support tool designed to support ethical content development, organisation and productivity. In addition, the initiative seeks to assist readers, librarians and learners to better understand the advantages of responsible artificial intelligence in publishing, particularly within multilingual and educational contexts.”

The project is sponsored by the National Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, and forms part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme Phase 6.

The authors who will be part of the anthology said they appreciate the opportunity.

Dumisani Magagula, a writer of radio drama, novel and poems, who won an award in the Visually Impaired writer’s category. Magagula said he is happy to be included in the anthology and looks forward to the outcome.

Mafika Jetro Mahlangu, an award winner and author of Umrhayili, an isiNdebele novel, said his book focuses on the difference between the olden traditional laws and the modern laws.

He won the Mbokodo Publishers readers’ choice award and best book in isiNdebele. He said Mbokodo Publishers is giving him the platform he needs for his career because they included him in the list of 15 authors who were invited.

Thembisile Maphanga ImbongiMate, the award winner of Best Social Media Influencer 2025 in siSwati said she will be publishing her work with Mbokodo Publishers. She writes poems and short stories.

She was awarded by Mbokondo Publishers during their annual awards and she said she looks forward to working with this publisher in this project. This 25-year-old said her dream is to also pursue acting, sing and produce.