Storytelling group to host book launch virtually

THE Unisa Library and Information Services will collaborate with the acclaimed Dr Gcina Mhlophe and the Gcinamasiko Arts and Heritage Trust (GAHT) to launch Dr Mhlophe’s latest project, Our Storytelling Tree: A South African Storytellers’ Directory on Friday, 28 May at 6pm.

The book launch will take place virtually through Facebook Live, on the Gcinamasiko Arts and Heritage Trust Facebook page as a celebration of Africa’s rich oral heritage and a love for stories.

The directory, edited by Dr Mhlophe, and supported by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, brings together 38 acclaimed authors, cultural workers and storytellers.

Among them is the award-winning writer and storyteller extraordinaire Dr Sindiwe Magona, Dr Nompucuko Zakaza, Dr Xolisa Guzula, Philippa Namutebi Kabali Kagwa, Dr Nomsa Mdlalose and Madoda Ndlakuse.

Through this book, the authors share diverse stories that give a taste and a glimpse of a coming together of this Storytelling Family Tree.

The book also shares the authors’ biographies, indicating their longstanding commitment as cultural workers both locally and internationally.

It is Dr Mhlophe’s dream that South Africa’s storytellers are recognised for their contribution to preserving and disseminating Africa’s rich oral history.

“What a journey it was to gather all this information, photographs and biographies of the fabulous storytellers of our country. This is the family tree of our weavers of dreams and tellers of tales,” said Dr Mhlophe who was recently awarded a SAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award, about this important book.

The book has also received praise from prominent cultural activists such as Dr Elinor Sisulu and Ambassador Lindiwe Mabuza.

The launch of Our Storytelling Tree on 28 May, is timely, as Africans celebrate all things African during the month of May.