Listen Ndlovu
In Mbembeswana 1, a small village in Bubi District, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, the quiet rural landscape shaped an unlikely storyteller. Amid droughts and solitude, Advent C. Nkomo found inspiration in the whispers of dreams and the weight of personal loss. Having lost three siblings at a young age, he began experiencing vivid nightmares. Rather than recoiling, he transformed these haunting visions into poetry, laying the foundation for a unique creative path.
In 2017, while in Form 4, Nkomo’s focus shifted from textbooks to verses. He filled the backs of his schoolbooks with poems, captivating his peers who eagerly awaited his next lines. Their encouragement fueled his passion, transforming him from a dreamer into a writer.
In 2018, Nkomo completed his first book, a milestone marred by its theft before publication. Undeterred, he continued writing, producing an unpublished play in 2019. His determination grew stronger, driven by a deep-seated need to create.
By 2024, after relocating to Bokaa, Botswana, Nkomo’s nightmares inspired *Creepy Bokaa*, a horror novel rooted in supernatural fears and the consequences of past mistakes. The story resonated deeply, with its core message: “What you do today can come back tomorrow and haunt you.” It explores how inherited burdens shape the present, urging readers to confront their challenges with resilience.
That same year, Nkomo published *Troubles of Umjolo*, a novel that gained traction at Majiji High School, his former school. The story, steeped in themes of betrayal, trust, trauma, and survival, captivated readers with its provocative narrative. A striking scene involves Sibusiso and Mbali burying her ex-boyfriend in their backyard, a testament to their complex loyalty. The novel underscores the importance of communication in relationships, emphasizing that “loyalty is key, trauma is silent, and love—real love—will always demand communication, even in the darkest of hours.”
Nkomo’s third work, *The Right Person*, took a gentler approach, inspired by his friendship with a woman named Kimmy. The novel examines love, age, and insecurities, portraying soulmates as a practical yet poetic connection. It highlights the role of family support and emotional maturity in sustaining relationships. As Nkomo stated, “Love is not about back bedsheet lifting. It’s about what you really want.”
Nkomo’s storytelling stands out for its refusal to rely on predictable conclusions. His works aim to challenge readers, provoke thought, and inspire change. Each story carries a distinct purpose, blending raw emotion with universal truths.
To purchase Nkomo’s books, contact him at +263777259926 or +26776640498. In Botswana, copies are available at Add n Prints Bookshop in Mochudi.
