New book aims to transform SA’s eating habits

ANEW book titled Inkonjane is entering South Africa's literary and health landscape, offering a practical approach to nutrition and heart health.

- LUTHO PASIYA

The title, drawn from the isiZulu word for the swallow bird, carries symbolic meaning for its author.

“The inkonjane is my favourite bird. It is small but full of life. The name reflects something small yet powerful, just like the everyday choices we make that impact our heart health,” the author, Mbali Mapholi, explained.

“It embodies growth, resilience and nurturing. Small, intentional steps in our diet and lifestyle can have a profound effect on cardiovascular wellness.”

The book was motivated by personal experiences. Mapholi recalled how family struggles with high blood pressure and heart-related conditions revealed a lack of culturally relevant resources.

“I noticed a gap in resources that speak to our foods, our traditions and our realities. Many people feel overwhelmed by generic nutrition advice that fails to reflect their unique lives."

“I wanted to create a guide that makes heart health accessible and relatable. It is also something I wished my family had when my dad was struggling with heart health and my grandmother with high blood pressure.

Unlike many health books available on the market, Inkonjane is neither a recipe book nor a clinical manual. It is presented as a practical guide, grounded in African heritage and culture.

“It focuses on everyday foods, real-life tips and emotional connections to food. It is about building heart-healthy habits without restriction or expensive ingredients.”

“The book blends science with relatable case studies and food rituals. It is the type of book that gives you a quick formula to create nourishing plates with what you already have,’ she said.