Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Cultural Identity in Selected Siswati Short Stories
Khulisile Judith Nkuna 
& Innocent Zitha
Issue: Vol.6 No.7 Article 13 pp.1112 – 1120
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256713 | Published online 18th June, 2025
© 2025 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
This paper aimed to examine the function of Siswati short stories in promoting cultural identity through an analytical lens. The researchers meticulously collected data from a diverse array of sources, such as online platforms, scholarly journals, library books, and articles. Subsequently, the thematic analysis was employed to critically and qualitatively analyse the function of Siswati short stories in advancing cultural identity. The findings exhibit that Swati people’s customs and beliefs are sustained because elders transmit wisdom and knowledge to younger generations through the art of storytelling. Siswati folktales weave together parts of mythology, folklore, and daily life to provide a nation and restore a sense of pride and belonging in its people. However, upholding conventional values and social conventions is one of the main purposes of Siswati short stories. On this basis, these tales frequently touch on issues of deference to elders, harmony within the community, and the value of community cohesion. These tales are essential in forming the social and cultural fabric of society, serving as a means of moral instruction and a means of remembering the traditions and celebrations of the Swati people. The contribution of this paper, Swati short stories, is a valuable instrument for preserving a harmonious and cohesive community by teaching cultural values and ethics in the minds of their readers through the fascinating narrative style of these moral lessons.
Keywords: gender roles, storytelling, Siswati short stories, audiences, identity, narrative.
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Khulisile Judith Nkuna is a senior lecturer and researcher at the University of Venda, where she specializes in Siswati literature and onomastics. She is a valued member of the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education, specifically within the Department of African Languages. With her extensive knowledge and expertise, she contributes significantly to the study and understanding of Siswati cultural heritage through her teaching and research initiatives. Her work not only deepens academic discourse but also promotes appreciation for the intricacies of African languages and their literary traditions.
Innocent Zitha is a Lecturer and Researcher specialising in English Academic Literacy at the School of Languages within the Faculty of Humanities at North-West University. With over five years of experience in higher education, I have developed a strong passion for teaching and empowering students in their academic pursuits. Throughout my career, I have authored and co-authored 18 research papers and 3 book chapters, all of which have been published in reputable peer-reviewed journals. My research focuses on enhancing literacy skills among students, exploring innovative teaching methodologies, and contributing to the evolving discourse in academic literacy. This commitment to research and teaching allows me to play a vital role in shaping the academic journeys of my students and contributing to the broader field of education.
Nkuna, Khulisile Judith and Innocent Zitha. “Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Cultural Identity in Selected Siswati Short Stories,” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 6, no.7 (2025): 1112 – 1120. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256713
© 2025 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
