Beckenham author Zeha Tembo’s New Book Inspires Wellness Through African Proverbs

Welcome to the Hakuna Matata club.

The secret to a wholesome Hakuna Matata (no worries) life is neither a secret, nor is it glaringly apparent. It all begins with daring to take the next step, building resilience, accepting one’s own complicated self and most importantly, spreading a little kindness along the way.

This little book of methali (Swahili proverbs), takes you on a journey of discovery into the wellness contained in the precious gift of yesteryears wisdom. This wisdom has been passed down from generation to generation, it is old, and it is tested. The anecdotes are filtered from the proverbs to provide a personal perspective. Remember, as all proverbs do, the methali’s wisdom will find its own meaning with each person.

How to be Hakuna Matata is an inspiring and motivational pocket-book that includes little gems of hope found in the methali. The wellness it brings is now yours to keep or to share if it takes your fancy.

Zeha Tembo was born with a wandering soul. She describes her childhood experience in 80s post-colonial era in Kenya, as growing up in a ‘euphoric haze of a new dawn’. Her subsequent move to England in pursuit for higher education led to various odd jobs before settling on a career in the city. She is interested in the interplay of languages, culture and social justice. When she’s not reading, she is writing. Zeha is based in London.

Zeha explains: “The motivation to write this book came from a desire to share the little gems of hope found in the methali. For those that don’t know, a methali is a Swahili proverb. I found it important to showcase aspects of my culture that may be unknown. African literature and history was typically passed down orally not recorded. Nonetheless methalis have survived the test of time and I was keen to ensure that these poetic treasures continue to have a positive impact. This is especially so as I have found that a ‘proverb’ can easily turn into a ‘life motto’ if it resonates. I hope by sharing these some other readers find meaning in them going forward.”

RELEASE DATE: 28/11/2024 ISBN: 9781836280521 Price: £9.99