“De/constructing Brand Authenticity: Crafting an Honest Narrative for Brand Africa’s Global Ascent” by Saul Molobi is a thought-provoking exploration of Africa’s journey to reclaim its narrative and establish an authentic identity on the global stage.
The book delves into the complexities of branding an entire continent, addressing the stereotypes and misrepresentations that have shaped Africa’s global image for centuries. Through rigorous analysis and heartfelt advocacy, the author presents a compelling case for building a brand that reflects the continent’s rich diversity, resilience, and boundless potential. This is not just a book about marketing strategies; it is a bold manifesto for reshaping how the world perceives Africa and, more importantly, how Africa perceives itself.
The book moves beyond surface-level branding to examine the cultural, social, and economic forces that influence Africa’s global positioning. It provides actionable strategies for policymakers, business leaders, and creatives to collaborate in crafting a unified and authentic brand narrative.
Through a blend of research, case studies, and visionary thinking, the book empowers readers to envision an Africa that is not defined by external expectations but by its own values and aspirations. It is both a critique of existing paradigms and a roadmap for driving meaningful change – an essential resource for anyone passionate about Africa’s future.
Cuthbert Ncube: “As Executive Chairman of the African Tourism Board (ATB), I have long believed that Africa’s greatest strength lies in its authenticity. Our people, landscapes, heritage, and innovations are unlike anything else in the world. This book aligns perfectly with this belief. It challenges us to move beyond superficial branding and toward a deeper understanding of Africa’s identity – a brand that is unapologetically African, yet universally resonant.
“The author’s insights are both sobering and inspiring. This is not a book about quick fixes or glossy marketing campaigns; it is about crafting a sustainable narrative that speaks to Africa’s soul. It is about rejecting the temptation to conform to external expectations and instead embracing a brand narrative that reflects our values, dreams, and aspirations.”
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The release of “Rhythms in Black and White: A Virtual Journey Through the World of Jazz” by Saul Molobi and Siphiwe Mhlambi marks a pivotal moment in South African cultural history, elevating the nation’s rich jazz heritage through a unique fusion of photography and poetry. Co-authored with the illustrious multiple award-winning photographer, Mhlambi, whose lens has immortalised countless jazz legends and accompanied by Molobi’s poetry that complements and amplifies the emotions captured in his images, this book is more than just a tribute – it is a living archive, a dynamic exploration of jazz as both a musical form and a cultural movement.
The launch took place at the prestigious annual Standard Bank Joy of Jazz (SBJOJ) festival on 27-28 September 2024 through book and photography exhibition plus sales. This exhibition showcased a curated selection of photographs from the book, representing three generations of South African jazz, giving concertgoers a visual journey through the evolution of this dynamic genre.
From the revolutionary sounds of Hugh Masekela to the urban rhythms of Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, and the contemporary, spiritually infused compositions of Dr. Nduduzo Makhathini, the photographs offer an intimate look into the lives and legacies of these icons.
Both the authors and key figures from the jazz world reflected on the importance of preserving and celebrating South Africa’s jazz heritage. Attendees will also had the unique opportunity to purchase the book which was an extraordinary multidisciplinary work that blended photography, poetry and music. This event, infused into the jazz concert, became a cultural highlight, where art, history, and sound came together to honour the enduring spirit of jazz.
Barbara W. Tuchman’s words, “Books are the carriers of civilisation,” resonate deeply with this work. “Rhythms in Black and White” is indeed a carrier of civilisation, capturing in its pages the heartbeat of South Africa’s jazz scene – a reflection of our society’s history, struggles, and triumphs. Each photograph and poem speaks to the resilience, creativity, and unyielding spirit of the artists who have shaped this genre, creating a narrative that is both personal and collective. The images are not mere snapshots of performances; they are windows into the soul of a people who have used jazz as a tool of resistance, expression, and liberation.
At the heart of “Rhythms in Black and White” are Siphiwe Mhlambi’s extraordinary photographs, which speak volumes in their silent, monochromatic beauty. Each image is a masterpiece, capturing the essence of jazz in its rawest and most authentic form.
The photographs don’t just document performances – they evoke the mood, the tension, and the freedom inherent in jazz. Whether it’s the intensity on a saxophonist’s face mid-solo or the gentle sway of a pianist lost in the rhythm, Mhlambi’s lens captures not only the musicians but the emotion that jazz brings to life.
His ability to freeze moments of improvisation – those fleeting, unrepeatable bursts of genius – invites the viewer to experience the music visually. In these black-and-white images, every shadow, every expression, and every movement becomes part of the rhythm, immersing the viewer in the intimate world of South African jazz.
The photographs, paired with the poetry, create a sensory experience that transcends the pages, allowing readers to feel the heartbeat of jazz as if they were present in the moment.
In many ways, this book is a bridge between generations. It preserves the legacy of the past while inviting new audiences into the world of jazz, a world that is as much about freedom as it is about improvisation and innovation. The poetry, woven into the fabric of the photographs, invites readers to linger, reflect, and immerse themselves in the rhythms that define jazz as more than music – it’s a way of life, a language of its own.
Tuchman also wrote that books are “teachers, magicians, bankers of the treasures of the mind,” and “Rhythms in Black and White” embodies all these roles. As a teacher, it educates readers on the profound connection between jazz and South Africa’s socio-political landscape, reminding us of the power of art to inspire change. As a magician, it transports readers into the world of smoky jazz clubs, late-night jam sessions, and the raw energy of live performance – transforming static images into moments of palpable sound and emotion. And as a banker of treasures, it stores the legacy of jazz, preserving the stories, struggles, and triumphs of its pioneers for future generations to discover and cherish.
At its core, “Rhythms in Black and White” is humanity in print – a celebration of life, rhythm, and sound, set against the backdrop of a country whose history is as complex and layered as jazz itself. It is a book that reminds us that while the world changes, the power of art remains constant. Through the pages of this book, the world will come to know not only the story of jazz in South Africa but the story of a people who, through rhythm and improvisation, found freedom.
“Rhythms in Black and White” exemplifies a groundbreaking multidisciplinary approach, blending the visual power of photography, the lyrical depth of poetry, and the auditory experience of music in a seamless fusion.
This book not only presents jazz through words and images but also offers readers the chance to hear the music that inspired the creation of each piece. By incorporating QR codes throughout its pages, readers can easily access streaming services where the music of three iconic artists – Hugh Masekela, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, and Dr. Nduduzo Makhathini – comes to life.
These musicians, each representing a different generation in the evolution of South African jazz, provide a sonic backdrop to the visual and poetic narratives. Hugh Masekela’s vibrant trumpet echoes the revolutionary spirit of his time, Sipho Mabuse’s saxophone reflects the urban resilience of later eras, and Dr Nduduzo Makhathini’s piano compositions embody the spiritual and contemporary essence of jazz today.
This innovative merging of mediums allows the reader to experience the rich textures of jazz across sight, sound, and language, making “Rhythms in Black and White” an immersive celebration of South Africa’s jazz legacy.
This book is not just for jazz enthusiasts but for anyone who understands the power of culture to shape identity, to bridge divides, and to carry the spirit of a nation forward. It is a gift to the world, a testament to the enduring power of creativity, and a reminder that books, like music, are timeless carriers of our collective humanity.
In every page of “Rhythms in Black and White”, we are reminded that jazz is not just something we listen to – it’s something we live.
The multimedia project was generously supported through funding from the National Arts Council (NAC) of South Africa.
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“Chocolate Kisses – Sweet Verses in the Dance of Romance” by Saul Molobi
In the enchanting world of romantic poetry, the celebration of beauty and grooming unfolds like a delicate dance between words and emotions. A collection of verses dedicated to this timeless theme captures the essence of admiration and appreciation for the aesthetics that grace our lives.
Poets, with their eloquent expressions, delve into the intricacies of beauty, exploring the allure of both physical features and the intangible qualities that make an individual captivating.
Each line serves as a brushstroke, painting a vivid portrait of the beloved, while the verses themselves become a testament to the power of language in unraveling the mystique of grooming.
Through metaphors and similes, poets weave a tapestry of adoration, celebrating the artistry of grooming that enhances the natural grace we possess.
The pages of such a poetic collection become a sanctuary where the essence of grooming is not merely an external adornment but a profound reflection of self-care and self-love.
The verses unfold like petals, revealing the delicate balance between the outward expressions of grooming and the inner journey towards embracing one’s unique beauty. It is a celebration that extends beyond the superficial, diving into the rituals and routines that nurture the body and soul.
As readers immerse themselves in this collection, they embark on a poetic pilgrimage, rediscovering the profound connection between beauty and grooming, where the act of adorning oneself becomes a poetic ode to the human spirit’s quest for authenticity and radiance.
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In a world inundated with stories of political upheaval and struggles for freedom, one book stands out as a beacon of insight into the complexities of leadership, vision and reconciliation. “Dodging the Civil War Bullet: Nelson Mandela and South Africa’s Transition from Apartheid to Democracy,” authored by Sello Lediga and published by Brandhill Africa, is a literary masterpiece that delves deep into the heart of South Africa’s historic journey from apartheid to democracy.
This groundbreaking work has garnered not only attention but also praise from prominent figures, including the highly respected former President of South Africa, H.E. Kgalema Motlanthe. With Motlanthe’s foreword providing a seal of approval, Lediga’s book offers readers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the intricate web of events, negotiations, and emotions that defined one of the most critical periods in South Africa’s history.
Lediga’s book is not just a chronicle of the past; it serves as a guiding light for future generations. It exemplifies how leadership, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. In a world grappling with ongoing conflicts and divisions, the lessons drawn from South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy resonate as a beacon of hope.
The comprehensive nature of Lediga’s work is evident in its meticulous research and attention to detail. The author painstakingly pulled together all available materials and interviewed key players in the process. This dedication to historical accuracy ensures that the book is a reliable reference for scholars, academics, and anyone seeking a deep understanding of this transformative period.
Moreover, “Dodging the Civil War Bullet” captures not only the political dynamics but also the broader social and regional context. It sheds light on the struggles within South Africa, as well as the attempts by the apartheid regime to drive a wedge between the African National Congress (ANC) and neighbouring governments and peoples. This holistic approach provides readers with a comprehensive view of the multifaceted challenges faced during the transition.
The book’s gripping narrative not only encapsulates historical events but also breathes life into the individuals who played pivotal roles on both sides of South Africa’s conflict. Lediga’s storytelling prowess ensures that readers become emotionally invested in the struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of those who were in power during apartheid and those who steered the ship toward democracy.
The Essence of Leadership
Lediga’s book unpacks the essential jigsaw pieces that constitute visionary leadership. It is a testament to the qualities that define true leaders: vision, strategy, decisiveness, focus, risk-taking, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the ultimate goal. More importantly, it emphasises the significance of making tough decisions beyond the glare of the media, where two main contenders dared to defy expectations and norms in their pursuit of a resolution to one of the 20th century’s fiercest battles between pro and anti-apartheid adversaries.
The Miracle of Negotiation
The book meticulously details the progression of talks that eventually resulted in the seemingly miraculous achievement of South African democracy. Lediga’s narrative skilfully takes the reader behind the scenes, providing an intimate look into the minds of those involved in the negotiations. Through vivid storytelling, the book unfolds the secret dynamics that led to a bloodless “miracle” that remains a testament to the power of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts.
Glowing Reviews
The acclaim for “Dodging the Civil War Bullet” extends beyond its powerful narrative. It has received glowing reviews from eminent personalities who have recognised its significance in chronicling South Africa’s history.
Amb Welile Nhlapo, Executive of the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD), commends Lediga’s meticulous research and balanced portrayal of the forces at play during this pivotal period. The book skilfully highlights the strengths and weaknesses of key individuals and their contributions to the process, offering readers a well-rounded perspective.
Kathy Kaler, Managing Director – 101.9 Chai FM: It is essential reading for all South Africans. It serves to remind us, who lived through it, how far we’ve come and to those who didn’t, it illustrates our hard-won democracy and the need to continue building our beautiful society…
Tsepe Motumi, Special Advisor to the Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans, views the book as an invaluable reference for scholars and history enthusiasts. It unravels the complex historical events surrounding apartheid, providing a gripping account of the roles played by individuals on both sides of the conflict. It is a must-read for anyone seeking insights into South Africa’s past.
A Must-Read Chronicle
“Dodging the Civil War Bullet” is not merely a book; it is a journey through the annals of history, a testament to the indomitable spirit of a nation, and a testament to the power of dialogue and leadership. It is a gripping story that captures the essence of a tumultuous era, where the pursuit of democracy triumphed over adversity. Lediga’s work serves as a vital addition to the literature that documents these pivotal milestones in South Africa’s history.
A Timeless Contribution to South Africa’s Heritage
In celebrating Sello Lediga’s work, we are also celebrating South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage. This book is a testament to the resilience of a nation that refused to succumb to division and violence. It is a reminder that dialogue, even in the most challenging circumstances, can be a catalyst for transformative change.
As we commemorate the struggles and victories of South Africa’s past, “Dodging the Civil War Bullet” serves as a bridge between generations. It allows younger South Africans and the global community to connect with the experiences and wisdom of those who fought for freedom.
In the words of H.E. Kgalema Motlanthe, “It is the writings of Lediga that form a foundation for dialogue to flourish, for silence to be lifted, and for as many accounts as there are people to be heard.” “Dodging the Civil War Bullet” is more than a book; it is a catalyst for understanding, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a brighter future for all.
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We are happy to introduce our latest offerings, “De/constructing brand Africa: A Practitioner’s Perspective – a collection of articles with links to podcasts and videos on trade, investment and tourism promotion” by Saul Molobi. The 408-page book in which the argues that the advent of globalisation – characterised by hyper-competition for foreign direct investment and tourism; and service/product brands’ access to and dominance in the markets – has catapulted the countries’ competitive identities to the centre of international relations.
The book seeks to answer how can Africa claim her stake in the global marketplace? It endeavours – through its autonomous and yet interdependent chapters – to suggest, uncompromisingly without being prescriptive – practical solutions grounded in time-tested and tried global theoretical formulations but contextualised within pan-African epistemologies for relevance and suitability to the continental realities.
Although it draws on academic texts for validation, the narratives are presented accessibly in a journalistic fashion. It is a kind of a theoretical guide – without being didactic and pedantic as it’s written accessibly and eloquently decorated with bits and pieces of anecdotes interspersing theory and practice of nation brand management.
Most significantly, since it is a compilation of my personal reflections, they are presented from a first person perspective and thereby communicating my voice authentically.
This book attempts to contribute to the efforts to change the narrative in brand Africa and to help her reclaim her original position as the cradle of civilisation whose essence was best captured by Pliny the Elder who mused: “Ex Africa semper aliquid movi” – “out of Africa there is always something new”. This approach later formed the crux of scholarship of such luminaries as Cheik Anta Diop and other scholars who contributed to the 8-volume UNESCO General History of Africa.
There are forty chapters that tackles themes on investment promotion, destination marketing and trade facilitation crystallised within a nation brand management. The overarching objective is the advancement of intra-African trade in line with the ideals of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). These chapters are not arranged chronologically, so a reader is free to move to any chapter depending on the topic that they’re most interested in or they may read one chapter after another according to the common themes they address.
Links are given to podcasts and YouTube videos to listen to the author’s interviews or presentations. These links will be activated by clicks in the e-book version.
What others say about the book?
Dr Nimrod Mbele (PhD), presenter of “Beyond Governance” on 101,9 Chai FM (also Group CEO: Knowledge Anchors Group): “As change agent, defender of democracy and social activist grounded in Pan Africanist ethos, Saul Molobi continues to stick his neck out by delivering yet another sterling book, on “De/constructing brand Africa: A Practitioner’s Perspective”. I am privileged to have interviewed him on several occasions at 101.9 Chai FM on issues relating to Africa’s trade and investment strategies which he eloquently addressed to the listener’s delight. Quintessentially, he is able to provide practical insights, strategies and tactics that are informed by years of experience as a public servant in various national and international missions. His ability to juxtapose Africa’s recovery transcend marketing and communication propositions but elevate critical ethical leadership underpinned by meritocratic imperatives. As a broadcaster, scholar, and corporate governance practitioner, I find Saul intellectually gifted, accessible and humble which is a rare quality given his industrious achievements…”
Dr Temba Masilela, Deputy CEO: Human Sciences Research Council: “Congratulations on the book, Saul Molobi! I don’t know anyone who has thought more deeply (in theoretical, historical, contemporary, and practical terms) about brand Africa, its communicative configurations, and the ways in which they impact domestic resource mobilization and international trade. That you come at the subject with passion and from a background of political activism, corporate practice, public diplomacy, and entrepreneurship makes it all the more relevant and powerful. That you appreciate and communicate with a self-deprecating sense of humour is a vital element in your street credibility and popularity. Much more than just another voice or influencer!”
General Ishola Williams (Rtd), Executive Director of the Pan Africana Strategic and Research Group: “The author, Saul Molobi, has put together his thoughts, ideas and praxis borne out of his years of experience as a Public Diplomat; an expert in brand management; and in related political, socio-economic and business in addition to historical issues and personalities.
“The book in a way has confirmed Saul Molobi as Paul, the public intellectual in South Africa and increasingly throughout Africa with his weekly news portal, Jambo Africa Online.
“As a member of the Board of the PanAfricana Strategic and Policy Research Group (headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria), his book is an enabler of the indispensable synergy between Africana people worldwide and it is expected that they will benefit from it as it integrates in various chapters not only the issue of branding but also its relation to issues of interests and concern to all who love South Africa and the Continent in the struggle to leapfrog into people-focused development.
“He challenges us to put on our thinking caps and working gloves for action by the followers and the leaders they choose to reflect on his ideas, believe in them, push for them, fight for them, gain their confidence of policy and decision makers through collaboration, partnership and champions in order to press on until the ideas become actionable policy…”
Forging strategic partnerships
The publisher, Brandhill Africa™, is exploring partnerships with corporates and event managers that may be interested in buying the book in bulk. These could be for their clients or stakeholders as corporate gifts; gifts for conference delegates; or even golfers. As a company, we will be presenting the book to the CEOs of economic development agencies across the continent. These are the CEOs in fifteen African countries that we’ve been working with in our CEO Forum and the number will reach 25 by this December. Furthermore, we will be using it as a basis for our economic diplomacy programme which we will be offering to national, provincial and municipal governments; diplomatic missions; economic development agencies; tourism agencies; corporates; civil society organisations; and academic institutions.
Special printing will be done for partners purchasing over 500 copies with their brand fully acknowledged as a sponsor on the imprint page.
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LAUNCHES OF MPHO NCHABELENG’S “THE LION OF THE NORTH: PETER NCHABELENG, HIS FAMILY AND THE STRUGGLE FOR NATIONAL LIBERATION IN SOUTH AFRICA” IN POLOKWANE, MAMELODI AND PRETORIA EAST
The Lion of the North: Peter Nchabeleng, His Family and the National Liberation Struggle in South Africa
As a prominent figure in the African National Congress (ANC) and the United Democratic Front (UDF), Peter Nchabeleng was a fearless champion for justice, tirelessly organising resistance against the oppressive apartheid regime. His leadership, particularly in the Northern Transvaal (now Limpopo), earned him widespread respect and the moniker “The Lion of the North.” The book provides intimate insights into his unwavering commitment to the fight for freedom, his harrowing experiences with state repression, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for the liberation of his people.
Beyond his political activism, The Lion of the North highlights the profound impact of apartheid on the Nchabeleng family. Through Mpho Nchabeleng’s lens, readers witness the personal cost of resistance — the arrests, harassment, and emotional turmoil endured by the family. The book also celebrates the resilience of those who carried forward Peter Nchabeleng’s legacy, ensuring that his vision of a free and just South Africa did not die with him.
A powerful blend of biography, history, and personal memoir, The Lion of the North is a vital contribution to South African literature, preserving the story of an unsung hero whose courage and sacrifice helped shape the country’s democratic future.
Foreword to the book: The Lion of the North: Peter Nchabeleng, His Family and the National Liberation Struggle in South Africa
The Foreword to the book was written by Tokyo Sexwale, former premier of Gauteng Province and a combatant in an ANC underground unit commanded by Peter Nchabeleng.
This book, enriched by Brandhill Africa’s “Our Voices, Our Space” initiative, brings to light the remarkable life of Nchabeleng and countless others like him. By chronicling their sacrifices and triumphs, it ensures that their legacies are preserved for future generations.
Through these pages, readers are invited to explore not just the historical events but the human spirit that powered South Africa’s liberation. Nchabeleng’s life reminds us that freedom was neither given nor easily won; it was the result of generations of sacrifice,
resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Glowing reviews on the book?
Nape Nchabeleng: Director-General: Limpopo Provincial Government
“The book places the evolution of Peter Nchabeleng’s revolutionary activism within the socio-economic and political landscape of South Africa. From his humble beginnings in the rural Sekhukhuneland in the 1920s, Peter was drawn into revolutionary consciousness and ANC politics while searching for his elder brother, Mmamagase, in Johannesburg. There, he witnessed his brother mobilising people to join the ANC, which marked his revolutionary baptism. Peter later assumed leadership roles in the mass democratic movement, including in the ANC and SACTU, a predecessor to the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)…”
Ambassador Lulu Mnguni: Fellow Peter Nchabeleng activist and former lecturer: University of the North (now the University of Limpopo)
“This is a must-read for those eager to learn about our struggle’s history and heroes, and for those drawn to “coming-of-age” narratives. It is a story of death-defying courage – a tale of a deeply religious man who was upright, trustworthy, and honest. It recounts how he stood resolute against the unimaginable adversity of apartheid, championing peace and justice in our land.
“This book holds immense significance in the ongoing transformation of South Africa’s historical narrative. By offering an “inside-out” perspective – written by someone deeply rooted in the subject’s life – it breaks away from the dominant “outside-in” accounts that often lack personal connection and depth. It contributes to a growing movement of developing authentic voices, ensuring that the stories of our liberation struggle are told by those who lived them or are intimately connected to them. In doing so, it adds to the small but growing canon of black writers who write with a nuanced understanding of the socio-political and cultural intricacies of our past. This shift is crucial in reshaping South Africa’s historical discourse, fostering a richer, more inclusive narrative that acknowledges the sacrifices and resilience of unsung heroes like Peter Nchabeleng…”
Launch at the VW Menlyn Complex in Pretoria East on 29 May 2025 addressed by Tokyo Sexwale, former Premier of Gauteng Province and founder of Mvelaphanda Holdings…
Launch in Mamelodi hosted by the ANC Peter Nchabeleng branch on 11 April 2025 addressed by Dr Dickson Masemola, Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs…
The primary launch in Polokwane hosted in partnership with the Limpopo Provincial Government on 13 March 2025 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium auditorium and addressed by Mr Funani Jerry Maseko, MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture…
