Book review 10: The Traveller, Crossing Borders and Connecting Africa Thebe Ikalafeng

Some books are written to answer the burning thoughts and desires we carry within us. 

I want you to pause and sit with that for a moment. 

Our minds are constantly racing, filled with ideas, questions and dreams that we often struggle to articulate. At times we hesitate to share them–out of fear, discouragement or the weight of reality. So, we carry these thoughts quietly, hoping to find something that will give them shape and meaning. 

The Traveller, Crossing Borders and Connecting Africa by Thebe Ikalafeng is that book. 

I began following Thebe towards the end of 2025. Occasionally, I would come across his interviews online. 

I admired his work and was inspired by the number of African countries he has travelled to. 

But what truly sparked my curiosity was a moment on Twitter formerly known as X, when someone shared that his book changed their life.

That stayed with me.

My turning point came through my sister. When I saw the book resting beside her bed, something within me shifted.  She lent it to me–and all I can honestly say my perspective has not been the same.  

Books have a transformative power. They uncover knowledge , expand perspectives, fill  unseen voids and bring clarity to our lives. 

Thebe’s book did exactly that  and more. 

There comes a time in one’s life or career when mentorship or opportunities become essential. Yet, because of structural inequalities in our country, access to these spaces is not guaranteed. We may not always have direct access to those we admire or the guidance  we seek. 

But this should not discourage us.

Instead, let it be an invitation to read.

Read African children.

Read authors who have lived through and navigated the realities of Apartheid. 

Read to understand  lived experiences. 

Read to learn how to rise in the face of adversity. 

Read because the answers you are searching for are often found in books. 

I would like to thank Bab Thebe for writing this insightful and grounding book. During the five days I spent reading it,  I felt as though I was being  mentored and guided. 

His  authenticity, honesty and reflections brought me clarity and a sense of alignment. The book affirmed my place as an African storyteller. 

Like him,  I believe that there is still  hope for me to travel across the African continent. 

Let this book be your invitation to read more  African literature. If we want to understand Africa, we must read  Africa–and travel in Africa.  

Book 10 of 2026

Life-changing read. 

Phiwe Mncwabe is a pan-African storyteller, blogger and founder of Botlhale Hub Afrika.

More stories–https://botlhaleafrika.co.za/ 

Instagram– Phiwe_ Mncwabe

Tik Tok- PhiweMncwabe 

Twitter– Phiwe_ Mncwabe_ 

LinkedIn– Phiwe Mncwabe

No Facebook account

I am not affiliated to any political party. I am affiliated to the Africans. 

The views that  I share are mine and not affiliated to any employer. These views are not meant to bring harm.

Let’s talk about Africa. Which African country must I visit next? 

Read Africa. Write about Africa. Put Africa first!

The hashtag to follow is #africabelongstoUS , #amplifyingvoices, #authenticstories