01 Mar 2017

Botswana’s talented youth poet, Batshidi Moeti of Maun will once again leave the country, this time around, for South Africa to perform in the first ever live poetry show slated for March 5.

The event, said to be the first continental poetry session in Africa, will attract artistes from different nations, and Moeti, who has already made headlines in the international market, was invited through social media by the director of the event, Dumisani Motha.

The young poet is one of Botswana’s proclaimed poets who recently made the country proud by bringing home an award from the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia, where she performed at the Piton International Film Festival.

Moeti emerged champion in a competition that had attracted poets from different countries of the world. In an interview with BOPA, the vocal Moeti excitedly said the current invitation was a sign that Botswana arts industry was growing bigger and better.

She is optimistic that taking part in the huge event would also open more doors internationally adding: “I am very pleased to be part of the poetry culture because it makes me excel in my artwork,” she added.

She said the event would foster convergence between poetry and other arts and also raise the visibility of poetry in the media.

Moeti, who is passionate about her work, pointed out that poetry speaks to the common humanity and also shared values that transform the simplest poems into a powerful catalyst for dialogue and peace.

Furthermore, she said the voices that carry poetry help to promote linguistic diversity and freedom of expression.

She explained that since she received the invitation she started rehearsals immediately and that she would not disappoint, but rather display a sterling performance that will sell Botswana culture.

She said her intention was not just to go there and entertain, but she would have an opportunity to network, share ideas and also benchmark good practices to enhance her art work.

She is expected to share a stage with giants in the art industry from South Africa, Swaziland and other neighbouring countries.

Miss Heritage South Africa and some senior officials are expected to grace the occasion.

The dress code for the show will be smart poetic with a taste of culture. ENDS