Nduna

A Swazi Boyhood

By: Malachy Purcell

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

After an early childhood in a small rural mountain kingdom, filled with friendly people, we were tossed about by the winds of change that wafted through Africa. Abandoned by the Crown and rejected by the Swazis, most of us scattered over Southern Africa, somewhat baffled and resentful, but never forgetting the innocent joys of our childhood and the beauty of Swaziland. The son of a District Commissioner, I grew up with Swazis and spoke siSwati before I spoke English. I am known by my Swazi name in the family and amongst Swazis. These are some memories of the people, places and dogs in the innocent adventures which filled my early life, My education was at St Marks - a traditional colonial public school type of school which was a great experience for many - a bit rough for others.