“Staffrider” was a groundbreaking South African literary and cultural magazine that emerged in the late 1970s, symbolizing the anti-apartheid resistance through the written word. First published in 1978 by Ravan Press, it became a powerful platform for black writers, artists, and intellectuals to express their voices during a period of political repression and racial segregation.

The name “Staffrider” referred to commuters who rode on the outside of overcrowded trains, a common practice in South Africa’s townships, symbolizing the lived experiences of black South Africans. The magazine was not just a space for literature but also featured photography, art, essays, and commentary on social issues, becoming a hub for political and cultural expression.

“Staffrider” embraced the idea of accessibility to the masses, allowing both amateur and professional writers to contribute. It primarily focused on themes of injustice, inequality, resistance, and the everyday struggles of black South Africans under apartheid, but it also explored broader social and cultural issues, making it a crucial voice in the literary and political landscape of the time.

Due to its critical stance against the apartheid regime, its support for black consciousness, and its often politically charged content, “Staffrider” faced censorship and was banned in 1979. However, it continued to operate in various forms, circumventing restrictions, and remained influential throughout the 1980s, even after the ban. The magazine is remembered today as a significant force in South African literary history, fostering a generation of black writers and artists who went on to have lasting impacts on the country’s cultural and political life.

In this magazine I published my poems, including, ‘The thought of dying’ and ‘You Have No Shame’.

Please have a read at this copy of the magazine and enjoy.