African Short Story

Deep in the valley of the Isithumba Village, lived a Zulu boy by the name of Gwazi. He lived in a small shack, with his old mother and sickly father. Gwazi was an only child, and the family's only income was from his low-paying job on a nearby farm. Gwazi was an odd boy- he was easily distracted and not very good at things that other Zulu boys did, like hunting, fishing and playing "Kudoda". All the Village people laughed at his attempts to catch a chicken, or spear an animal, because his name meant "Warrior" and Gwazi was just the opposite.

Gwazi was a loving and obedient boy- and a very hard worker. He woke up at sunrise every morning to the crow of the rooster. Gwazi then walked down to the nearby river to collect water in a drum to boil to prepare "iphalishi" for his mother and father. After cleaning their shack, he went to work until sunset, coming home to prepare food once again.

Life was hard for Gwazi, but he knew that one day, something amazing would happen, that would change his life forever. He knew that his ancestors were watching down on him.

This day came one morning when Gwazi was on his way to work. He decided to use a different route than normal, and as he passed the settlements, noticed the most beautiful girl in the window. Gwazi immediately called his friend Dumisani and asked, "Dumisani, who is that beautiful girl? I must speak to her immediately" Dumisani gave a laugh and said, " My friend, that girl is Buhle. She is the daughter of the Chief. You cannot speak to her as she has never said a word, or laughed since she born"

Gwazi knew he had to speak with the Chief and ask for Buhle's hand in marriage. He could not get the sight of her beauty of mind.

Gwazi used that route every day, determined to see the Chief. Eventually, after eight days, he finally spoke to him. "Hello Chief. It is an honour to meet you. I would like to speak with you about having you daughter Buhle's hand in marriage."

The Chief laughed at Gwazi and replied "You have come from the poorer settlement and you have nothing to offer my daughter. You have no money, no cattle or no skills. I do not see any reason for you to marry my daughter."

Gwazi pleaded his love for Buhle and eventually, the Chief decided to give him a test. "You can marry my daughter on one condition"

"Anything!" replied Gwazi.

"Make my daughter laugh. As I'm sure you know, Buhle has not laughed or spoke since she was born.If you can do that I will allow you to marry her"

Gwazi was shocked and knew he would have to think of something really funny to make Buhle laugh. By the morning of his visit to Buhle, he still had not thought of anything. His frustrations grew as time grew closer. Minutes before he was about to