Emthimbeni Kamvundla

Umthimba Kamvundla is a must read folklore which reaches to every imagination of the reader. The book is written by Bernard Dima Ndlovu who has written a lot of poems and books. Umthimba Kamvundla is an interesting 14 page children’s book first published by Usiba Publishers in 2001.

The story is about events surrounding Mvundla’s wedding with Bubese, which has been eagerly awaited by everyone at the Hlathini Land. Mvundla is the hare and is a central character in Ndebele folklore. When the day finally comes, Mvundla goes with his trusted male bridal chain that includes his right hand man, Ndwangu to the bride’s homestead.

Upon arrival, as is the Hlathini culture, the right hand man has to go in first to announce the presence of the bridegroom and his party. However, Ndwangu takes the opportunity to lie to Bubese about Mvundla. What Ndwangu wants to do here is to get back at Mvundla who has always beat him to the best women. This leads Bubese to reverse her decision on marriage. Mvundla insists that the wedding should go on despite the absence of a bride.  

On the day of the wedding, Mvundla unveils Lomaweni as his new bride and she takes Bubese’s place as Mvundla’s wife during the dance segment much to the chagrin of Bubese. Bubese then decides to retake her position but Mvundla gives her a condition of being a second wife, which she has no option but to accept half-heartedly.

Dima Ndlovu uses very simple but captivating language with a well laid out storyline that urges the reader to go on. Though simple, the language is educative as shown by the constant use of formal Ndebele language.

Its major difference from other folklores is the ending that does not have the norm of, “And they lived happily ever after.” There is a twofold ending as Lomaweni is happy while Bubese is kicking her heels.

While the book is mainly targeted at children, it has an educative approach in that unsettled problems can spill over and spoil other forthcoming good opportunities. It also teaches that one should not be quick to make decisions without digesting the consequences involved with it.

All avid folklore readers should get a copy of this book and experience the expertise of local writings. Less interested readers can find a source of motivation to read more after reading this book.