By Jones Gadama
Malawian author Tendai Shaba has written a new book titled “How to Make Money Grow on Trees,” which aims to educate readers on financial literacy, personal finance, and financial inclusion from an African perspective. The book is scheduled for launch on July 28.
According to Shaba, the novel uses storytelling as a powerful tool to address critical financial issues, blending entertainment with education.
Set in postcolonial Malawi in 1995, the story introduces characters whose experiences reflect the financial challenges many face, using culturally grounded analogies to explain complex issues like budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management.
Shaba, an established writer with previous titles such as “Moments to Cherish” (2020), “A Lady in a Yellow Dress” (2023), and “Living with the Wildflowers” (2024), believes that financial knowledge is crucial for Malawians.
“This novel is designed to educate and entertain while also teaching Malawians some good financial knowledge,” he explains.
The book has been praised for its accessibility and practical advice, making financial concepts clear and applicable to everyday life in Malawi and beyond.
By using local examples and analogies, Shaba’s book provides a relatable guide to managing money, tailored to the economic context of Malawi and addressing broader African realities.
Shaba’s work is significant in a country where only 34% of adults have access to formal financial services, according to the World Bank.
By providing practical tools for improving financial health, the book fills a critical gap and offers readers simple, actionable strategies for saving and investing.
