BY PRINCESS MAHLALELA
MBABANE- Former Senator Mbho Shongwe has published a book on praise names (Tinanatelo).
The book was published online on June 20, 2023.
According to Shongwe, the renowned advocate for cultural preservation aims to capture the essence of this unique cultural tradition and educate generations to come about its significance in Swati society.
Shongwe stated that praise names, commonly known as Tinanatelo in Eswatini, hold profound meaning and historical value in the country. These names are descriptive phrases or terms used to praise or acknowledge people in various aspects of their lives.
The former Senator’s book aims to reveal the rich tapestry of Tinanatelo, exploring their origins, creative expressions, and the importance of these names within the community.
Titled “Tinanatelo,” the book delves into this cultural practice that has been cherished across generations in Eswatini. Shongwe said he spent over a decade researching, interviewing community elders, and delving into historical records to compile an extensive collection of praise names from various regions of the country.
Speaking about his motivation behind the book, Shongwe emphasized the urgency to preserve traditional practices and pass them down to future generations. He said he believes that efforts to safeguard cultural heritage are essential to maintain a strong sense of identity in an increasingly globalized world.
“My inspiration for writing this book was mainly trying to fee emaSwati with the importance of their background and what exactly their praise names mean to them. It took me a long time to publish this book because I wanted to make sure I get the right information from each family,” said Shongwe.
He added that the book not only outlines the different types of praise names used in Eswatini but also provides anecdotes and stories associated with these names. He said it delves into how these names evolve over time, reflecting societal changes, and the significance they hold in traditional ceremonies and community gatherings.
“Tinanatelo” has been received with great anticipation by scholars, historians, and Swazi enthusiasts eager to delve into their rich cultural heritage. He said he hope the book will ignite a renewed interest in praise names amongst the youth and promote a sense of pride in Swati traditions.
