What was once passed down solely through the spoken words of forefathers and foremothers has now been compiled into a permanent reference, as retired educator Magorhandile Gxashe officially launched his debut book, Vukani MaGqwashu, at Devereux Lodge in KuGompo City over the weekend.
The launch drew hundreds of guests for a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture, and identity, with attendees arriving dressed in traditional attire, while an imbongi (traditional African poets) set the atmospheric tone with praise poetry.
The occasion was graced by guest of honour chief Vuyani Mrawu, as well as Prince Banzi Tyali of the AmaRharhabe Kingdom.
Published by Odwa Bungu, Vukani MaGqwashu serves as a comprehensive guide to the rituals, customs, values, and ancestral practices of the Amagqwashu clan.
To ensure accessibility, the publication features both isiXhosa and English versions, bridging language barriers while preserving the foundational core of the clan’s oral history.
The book documents ancestral history, praise names, rites of passage, sacred ceremonies, family law, traditional leadership, and the moral code that shapes the identity and unity of the clan.
Gxashe explained that the book was born out of observing cultural practices and recognising the risk of critical heritage fading across generations.
“The role our forefathers and foremothers played around wisdom and culture should continue to the following generation,” Gxashe said.
“This is an attempt to awaken not only Amagqwashu but everyone, calling for new thinking and a better way of doing things.”
Much of the foundational material was gathered during a dedicated workshop organised by the Amagqwashu in June 2025, complemented by extensive personal interviews conducted by Gxashe.
He said the selected topics represented essential pillars of cultural documentation, including general wisdom and health-related traditional knowledge.
Born and raised in Duncan Village, Gxashe devoted more than three decades to education, teaching mathematics at Nyameko High before retiring as head of department for mathematics, science, and technology.
Beyond academia, he contributed significantly to local sports, co-founding Progressors Soccer Club and remaining active in rugby and boxing.
He currently resides in Mdantsane with his wife Boniswa and two children, Khawakhe, and Zenakhe.
Mrawu hailed the publication as a historic milestone for the Amagqwashu people, emphasising its role as an authoritative reference for custom performance.
“This means there will be an endless history of how customs should be performed.
“Even when we are no longer here, our children will see a point of reference when they disagree,” Mrawu said, adding that the dual-language formatting will assist community members abroad and youth who may struggle with written isiXhosa.
For Gxashe, providing an English translation alongside the isiXhosa text ensures young people cultivate self-reliance in understanding their lineage.
As SA observes Heritage Month, the book embodies a powerful mandate: “The ancestors passed it to us; we now pass it to the next generation.”
It is available for purchase directly from Gxashe on 071-850-7644.
Delivery is available to nearby locations, and via courier.
