Botswana's educational advocate Zwelihle Nsiiwa honoured
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Wednesday November 26, 2025 06:00
The award acknowledges her outstanding contribution to preserving African culture and languages through literature. Zwelihle's work focuses on promoting multilingual literacy amongst the little ones, evident in her educational children's books published in seven languages namely Setswana, Ikalanga, English, Shona, Ndebele, French and Afrikaans.
Her books cover early learning and self-development themes, including positive affirmations, Mathematics, English Literacy, French Literacy, and creative colouring activities.
Her efforts have made a significant impact, with her books available at Alliance Française de Gaborone, the Botswana National Library and adopted by learning centres in the country and schools in South Africa.
Through Smart Thinking Publishers, co-founded with her husband Samuel Banks Nsiiwa, Zwelihle champions African storytelling and literacy development, including the 'A Book in Every Hand' initiative, donating books to underserved schools.
'This award recognises the power of storytelling in shaping children's identity, cultural pride, and love for learning,' she said.
Her work supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.2, promoting equitable access to quality education.
Zwelihle's achievements extend beyond Botswana, with international recognition, including a nomination for Best Children's Literature at the Namibian ARRA Awards. She has been named among the 100 African Fashion and Arts Personalities 2024 in South Africa and received multiple international nominations.
Her journey, from house helper to award-winning author, is a testament to resilience, faith, and purpose. Zwelihle's story inspires, demonstrating how one woman's passion for storytelling can preserve Africa's cultural diversity and transform education.
Zwelihle's work continues to make a lasting impact, inspiring future generations and promoting African culture and languages.