The Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will host and support a series of local book launches during Youth Month as part of the 50th Anniversary commemoration of June 16.

The initiative seeks to promote a culture of reading, education and storytelling amongst young people while honouring the legacy of the 1976 youth who fought for equal education opportunities in South Africa.

The Department has assisted the authors with publishing costs and will further support the official launch events. The books will also form part of collections in public libraries across the Northern Cape to ensure wider community access to local literature.

 

On 09 June 2026, the book The Cursed Kingdom written by Danilson Manu from Platfontein was officially launched at !Xunkhwesa Combined School in Platfontein.

Speaking during the launch, young author Danilson Manu said:

“This book is a reflection of creativity, imagination and the stories that young people from our communities can share with the world. I hope it encourages more young people to read, write and believe in their talents.”

The following books are still scheduled to be launched during Youth Month:

• Stuck by Lapies from Kimberley – Date to be confirmed
• The Adventures of Zizi and Hoho by Kabelo Moratwe from Kimberley – Date to be confirmed
• Seganka by Tumelo Thekoeng from Kuruman – Date to be confirmed
• Sephiri by Nkululeko Mono from Barkly West – Date to be confirmed

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the book launches and engage with the young authors on the importance of literature, education and youth development.

The MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika, said the initiative forms part of the Department’s commitment to preserving local stories and empowering young creatives through literature and education.

“As we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the June 16 Uprising, we are reminded that education, storytelling and access to knowledge remain critical tools for empowerment. Through these book launches, we are creating platforms for young voices to be heard while encouraging a culture of reading and learning across our communities,” said MEC Matika.

For further enquiries , kindly contact: Mr Conrad Fortune

Cell:0798730679           Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.