Freedom Month invites reflection not only on political history, but on cultural and intellectual freedom.

In this episode of Thekgang Talking, Vonani Bila and Given Mukwevho explore writing and publishing in indigenous South African languages, with a focus on access, ownership, and sustainability. As we mark World Book and Copyright Day (23 April), World Intellectual Property Day (26 April), and Freedom Day (27 April), this conversation highlights the importance of building publishing systems that support African voices.

From independent publishing to emerging writers, this episode examines how literary ecosystems shape whose stories are told — and who gets heard.

Thekgang Talking is a books and publishing podcast, covering topics that cut across the books and publishing ecosystem, from indigenous language writing and publishing to alternative manifestations of books such as audiobooks and graphic novels. Guests on the podcast include authors, publishers, booksellers, festival directors and literacy organisations. For more information, visit thekgang.org.za.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writing and publishing in indigenous languages are vital acts of cultural preservation and intellectual sovereignty. They transform spoken heritage into lasting records, ensuring that stories, knowledge, and identity are passed on to future generations.

In this episode of Thekgang Talking, we are joined by Ayanda Xaba, an award-winning self-published author, and Nathi Oliphant, a seasoned journalist and novelist, to explore the importance of writing in isiZulu and the broader role of indigenous languages in literature.

Ayanda shares her journey from a young writer to an award-winning author committed to telling the stories of African women, while Nathi reflects on his transition from journalism to fiction and the themes behind his novel Blood, Blades and Bullets.

Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and cultural significance of publishing in indigenous South African languages.

This episode is a compelling exploration of language, identity, and storytelling in contemporary Africa.

Thekgang Talking is a books and publishing podcast, covering topics that cut across the books and publishing ecosystem, from indigenous language writing and publishing to alternative manifestations of books such as audiobooks and graphic novels. Guests on the podcast include authors, publishers, booksellers, festival directors and literacy organisations. For more information, visit thekgang.org.za.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.