Bula Buka, founded in 2014, is an award-winning book publisher based in South Africa.

It takes pride in being the pioneering publisher and funder of the “diary chronicle” book genre.

This achievement encompasses popular titles such as “Diary of a Side Chick” by Lesego Maake, “Chronicles of a Slay Queen” by Mutshidzi Mutshinya, “Diary of a Zulu Girl” by Mike Maphot, “Diary of a Cheating Wife” by Londiwe Xaba and Siphelele Masango, alongside numerous others.

Pioneering publisher of “diary chronicle” books

The “diary chronicle” genre has amassed millions of readers in South Africa and neighboring countries, extending as far as Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Europe, and North America.

The “diary chronicle” genre has amassed millions of readers across South Africa, neighbouring countries, extending as far as Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Europe, and North America.

The “diary chronicle,” or “diary chron,” genre emerged around 2013 and 2014 in South Africa as a literary category characterized by stories and books written in the style of fictional diary-like posts on Facebook.

These works present chronicles of young adults’ unconventional lives. They are marked by their brisk pacing, diary-esque narrative, vivid depiction of intimate scenes, and incorporation of surprising plot twists. Typically, the main characters document their actions and relationships during the era of social media, exploring themes such as blessers, blessees, slay queens/kings, players, as well as indulgence in expensive champagne and whiskey.

The term “diary chronicle” was coined by our founder, Tiisetso Maloma, along with publishing colleague Lesedi Setlhodi.

Bula Buka background

Bula Buka’s inception involved providing publishing services and consultation to authors and publishers. The company was co-founded by entrepreneurs and authors Ms. Bonolo Rakumakoe and Mr. Tiisetso Maloma in 2014.

The business model later evolved to encompass the acquisition of captivating book titles, followed by their publication.