A story of true love, persistence and transition

INSPIRATIONAL writer, speaker and coach Simbarashe Nyamadzawo (pictured right) has just released another title — “Ndadzoka”. Still hot from the press, the 12-chapter book is an intriguing piece that neatly and delicately knits together sub-plots on love, determination and transitioning into a single story.

The book has themes that border on the social, economic and political aspects of the fictional state of Zerera. Mai Zanda, a teacher by profession, longs for her son’s return from abroad. He has not been communicating with her of late.

“‘I want to see my son once more. I want to hug him and see his infectious smile once more,’ said Mai Zanda, who was ill as she spoke audibly to herself like a mad person. ‘I wish my son was here with me. Possibly these are the last days in the land of the living. Who knows?’ she continued.” (p3)

Zanda, short form of Alexander Gumunyu, is the protagonist in the story. He is a ‘been-to’, who has just returned home after facing hard times abroad. This is a realistic eventuality many Zimbabweans have faced, at times returning home empty-handed. Zanda had faced all sorts of ill-treatment in Farland.

“After seven years in Farland, I thought I had experienced the worst form of racism and ill-treatment until one day I was falsely accused of malpractice.” (p20)

When he eventually meets his family on return, he had gone through a lot, which had taken a toll on him physically.

“Little did they know he had been taking antidepressants for some time. Zanda had left Zerera in search of greener pastures but only to return empty-handed. He was accused of malpractice in Farland and was slapped with a $250 000 lawsuit. Unfortunately, he lost the case and was ordered to pay damages. He had to sell all his assets, flats, cars and other belongings so that he could settle the lawsuit.” (p24)

“Ndadzoka” literally translates to “I am back” and Zanda first says this to his mother: “Amai, it’s Zanda. Ndadzoka. I am in Johannesburg. I failed to get through to Brian. Can you pick me up at the airport? I will be landing in Zerera at 1.15pm.” (p21)

Natasha says the same words to Zanda when she returns from her diplomatic posting in Farland to take up a more challenging position as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

“‘Alex, Ndadzoka,’ Natasha responded . . .

Natasha’s term in office as an ambassador was cut short, barely a month after her appointment. Her set of skills was needed more at home than abroad. She was promoted to become Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations with the specific mission of rebranding the country and re-establishing diplomatic ties with the international community and former trading partners.” (pp77-78)

On his return, Zanda is determined to fight for a pharmaceutical licence in Zerera, something that is not difficult given the liberal approach of the government.

After getting the licence, “He had to revise his business plan and include other ideas he had

not considered at first. He rented a big house on the outskirts of Tamuka and converted it into a medical centre with state-of-the-art equipment. Things began to work out well for Zanda. His fortunes had finally turned for the better.” (p69)

The author says of “Ndadzoka”: “I wanted to encourage people to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.”

One of the key lessons is that in the fullness of time, everything will become beautiful if we stay steadfast and true to ourselves.

Zanda and Natasha’s marriage, and wedding are the culmination of a lengthy and genuine love relationship. Nyamadzawo was born on September 28, 1987, in Harare and grew up in Domboshava, a rural settlement about 30 kilometres from the capital.

The founder of Gumiguru Incorporated attended Chishawasha Primary School before proceeding to Chinhoyi High School.