Books Giveaway: Stories to Uplift

Author Penehafo Endjala says she developed an interest in writing in the year 2000, but it was not until almost 10 years later that she finally began to develop her talents.

Endjala’s books touch on various aspects of life, such as the importance of having a will, raising children well and choosing friends wisely. She says her writing journey is guided by a vision to inspire, motivate and empower others.

“I believe in the power of storytelling to bring awareness and joy into the lives of my fellow citizens and beyond, offering fresh perspectives and guidance to help individuals become the best versions of themselves,” she says.

Endjala has authored three books: ‘We Need One Another in Life’, Counting My Blessings’ and ‘Suffering in Silence: Human Agony’.

She also oversaw the publication of her late husband John ‘Akapandi’ Endjala’s book, ‘A Letter to My Children’.

She believes as long as one has a story to tell, they should write and aim to ensure their story is both interesting and educational.

Endjala asserts that self-publishing allows her to have more control over her work and to select the best and most affordable editors, designers and publishing houses.

The response to her books has been excellent so far, she says, and sales are ongoing.

‘A Letter to My Children’ serves as a hearth of age-old wisdom, imparted from a father to his children to help them navigate future challenges. It begins with a narration of Endjala’s family history, providing a window into the journey of those who came before. This provides insight into the challenges and triumphs which shaped him, allowing readers to draw meaningful lessons.

It also imparts some of life’s most essential lessons, writes Petrus Mbenzi in the preface.

Endjala emphasises the importance of his children constructing their lives firmly on the foundation of Aawambo customs and values, allowing them to converse with their father even in his absence.

While the book is written specifically for Endjala’s own children, it is also relevant for many Namibians. His wife believes it shares life lessons of resilience, hard work and identifying opportunities.

“Drawing from his leadership as the former Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry president and a successful entrepreneur, the late Tate John ‘Akapandi’ Endjala offers wisdom to inform and inspire future generations.

“This is a must-read for anyone seeking guidance on entrepreneurship, personal growth and life challenges,” she says.

‘We Need One Another in Life’ has been translated into six languages: Oshindonga, Rukwangali, Silozi, Afrikaans, English and French.

It is described as an enchanting book that both reveals human nature and prepares readers for the real world. It tells the story of siblings Indila and Natangwe, who both work hard to achieve success. This is until Natangwe dies, and the family begins to reveal the truth.

The coming-of-age story is one of friendship and a sense of adventure.

‘Counting My Blessings’ offers wise counsel, particularly for parents who have made many sacrifices for their children and long for them to reciprocate the gesture.

Namibia’s attorney general, Festus Mbandeka, describes the book as a form of national history and an inheritance for future generations.

Finally, ‘Suffering in Silence: Human Agony’ is Endjala’s third book. The short-story collection covers current events in society and calls on readers to put an end to all that does not add value to their lives and the lives of others.

It is a book about the common experiences many go through in homes across the country, some of which are widely accepted but which need to be revisited and changed.

Endjala shines a light on some of these issues, like the mistreatment of barren women in marriages, the suffering of adopted children, husbands abandoning their wives when they become disabled and the treatment of children after the death of their mothers.

Copies are available directly from Endjala at 083 374 5006 in Windhoek, or call Ekamuti Guesthouse at Ondangwa at 081 692 5925.