06 Oct 2026

For Edwin Moroka, popularly known as Serurubele, poetry is more than entertainment; it is a calling and a vehicle for preserving Setswana language and culture. 

The Kanye-born poet has carved a niche for himself through captivating performances that often leave audiences swaying to the rhythm of his words and movements.

His stage name, Serurubele, was given to him by listeners of Duma FM during one of his appearances on the Radio station.

“While I was reciting a poem on Duma FM, I kept using the word ‘Serurubele’ during my pauses. I would say ‘Serurubele! Seru!’ and it amused many people who were listening,” he said. Moroka, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, a Diploma in Healthcare Management, a Certificate in Special Education and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, said his academic pursuits have never diminished his passion for poetry. “I developed interest in poetry while I was still in junior school and took it to another level at tertiary level. 

At first, it was just a hobby, but people later encouraged me to take the gift seriously,” he said. Besides poetry, Serurubele is an author of Setswana books, including Marope a Puo, an indigenous knowledge book, Legaleng, a poetry and folktale collection. 

He describes himself as a 21st-century poet and cultural custodian determined to keep the Setswana language and its rich linguistic expressions alive. “I do not want to part ways with the rich Setswana language. I have decided to also add an element of research to my poetry,” he said.

Moroka said his passion for poetry was nurtured by his grandfather, who was also a poet. He recalls how his grandfather would recite poems while driving oxen during the ploughing season, praising the animals and encouraging them as they pulled the plough. 

“That is where some of my inspiration comes from. I grew up in an extended family setting rich in culture and traditional knowledge,” he said. Serurubele said his poetry services extend to corporate events, weddings, parties, promotions, graduations and birthday celebrations.

He said his stage performances are largely spontaneous rather than memorised. “I do not rehearse or write poems to recite. My poetry is spiritual. I do not write before I recite.  “Despite being a book writer, when it comes to stage poetry, I just flow with the words,” he said. ENDS