LIMPOPO – Ndivhudzannyi Emelinah Sigogo, the oldest living Tshivenda pioneer writer, encouraged young people to embrace writing in their own language and learn from her experiences while she is still alive.
Sigogo (75) a retired teacher from the rural village of Ngwenanihathemeli near Thohoyandou, was overjoyed on August 22, as the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture held a celebratory ceremony to honour her 29-year career as a Tshivenda author.
The celebration of Women in Writing took place at the Ngwenanihathemeli Christian Fellowship Centre, with the attendance of local traditional leaders, academics, Tshivenda book writers, and Thulamela Mayor Athongozwidivha Sarah Rambuda.
Sigogo used the occasion to motivate school learners to take their education seriously, aiming to make Ngwenanihathemeli a centre of excellence in producing top Tshivenda authors.
Recalling her days as a learner at Tshivhase Secondary School in the 1960s, Sigogo mentioned that she was inspired by well-known Tshivenda authors such as the late Titus Ntsieni Maumela, Ethian Silas Madima, and Asnath Khuba.
In November 2022, Sigogo was honoured with the Golden Shield Heritage Award by the South African National Heritage Council.
Tshifhiwa Netshifhefhe, acting director of language services in the department, emphasised Sigogo’s contribution as one of the pioneers of Tshivenda literature, acknowledging her role in preserving the Vhavenda culture and traditions through her writing.
Sigogo has received numerous accolades for her work, which has had a lasting impact on the community.
Vhamusanda Mutulagole Nyamande shared that plans are underway for the Tshivhase Dynasty to develop their own museum, where Sigogo’s books will be showcased.
Additionally, a street leading to her home in Ngwenanihathemeli will be named in her honour.
