20 Oct 2026

Thabiso Boefelo, popularly known as Mmasekgethu in poetry circles, regards the art as a vehicle for preserving Setswana heritage, documenting indigenous knowledge and giving a voice to communities whose stories might otherwise go unheard. 

A native of Moshaneng with strong Ngwaketse cultural roots, Boefelo has built a multifaceted career as a poet, author, cultural promoter, public speaker and radio contributor. 

Through his work, he has positioned himself as a cultural curator who uses literature, performance and community engagement, to keep Botswana’s traditions alive.

Although poetry initially remained a casual pastime, his growing appreciation for literature eventually drew him towards a more serious commitment.

“I grew up as a fanatic of different art forms, both as a spectator and a performer, while also being committed to sport. I did poetry casually from a young age, but I took it seriously in 2010,” said Boefelo.

His academic journey later saw him obtain a Degree in Information Technology and a certificate in Community Development. 

However, formal qualifications did not immediately translate into employment, prompting him to turn his artistic abilities into a means of livelihood.

“I am focused on traditional poetry. I have never been formally employed since graduating, I survive through poetry and other creative arts,” he said.

Boefelo performs at corporate functions, weddings and cultural events, while also writing poetry books, fiction and short stories in Setswana and English.

 His work is particularly rooted in indigenous literature and cultural narratives, with a mission to illuminate social issues and amplify voices that are often overlooked.

For him, however, performing poetry before an audience requires more than memorising verses or displaying verbal skill. It demands research, cultural sensitivity, creativity and an understanding of the occasion.

“When I perform, I do not necessarily write everything down beforehand. I stand up and deliver. Before an event, I research, assess the mood, understand the protocol and familiarise myself with the theme and the key people involved. Respecting people’s beliefs to avoid offending anyone through recitation is important,” he said.

He explained that understanding the beliefs and sensitivities of an audience was essential, particularly when performing at events attended by people from different backgrounds.

He added that creativity was central to an effective performance, alongside professionalism and ensuring that the client’s expectations were met.

Beyond the stage, his cultural work has extended to radio, where he has helped popularise Setswana heritage and indigenous knowledge through discussions and cultural programmes.

His radio experience includes co-presenting Sekhutlwana sa Bannyе on Duma FM from 2017 to 2025, co-presenting Sefalana sa Ngwao in 2017 and 2018, and presenting Letlotlo la Ngwao on South Africa’s SAKS Radio in 2024. He has also contributed to cultural interview, for local and regional stations, including BTV, Radio Botswana and stations in Namibia and South Africa.

His involvement in cultural events has also included founding the Ntwa ya Puo Poetry Show in 2019 and The Reading Picnic in 2025. He chaired the Old Naledi Cultural Event in 2019 and the Bamlete Cultural Festival in 2022, while also participating in the Sekhutlwansa sa Bannyе Kids Cultural Event across several years.

Boefelo’s contributions have not been confined to Botswana. 

His profile includes performances at the Ipeleng ka Ngwao Cultural Event in Moruleng, South Africa, the Livingstone Culture and Arts Festival in Zambia, and the Botswana-Sweden Cultural Exchange in Gaborone. 

In 2019, he received the Youth Promoting Culture and Heritage award at the Botswana Youth Awards, alongside recognition as a cultural promoter. 

His poetry book was also recognised at the Botswana Literature Awards, while the Mulher Forte Literature Awards acknowledged his contribution to poetry and indigenous-language literature.

His more recent literary achievements include the 2024 Botswana Literature Awards recognition for Best Setswana Poetry Book. 

In 2025, he received awards for Best Setswana Novel and Best Short Fiction Collection, as well as recognition as Best Indigenous Language Author at the Mulher Forte Literature Awards.

Despite these accolades, Boefelo believes that the sustainability and credibility of the poetry industry required deliberate support, professional standards and stronger organisation.

He is equally concerned about the preservation of the values traditionally associated with poets and believes that while artists must earn a living from their talents, financial considerations should not overshadow the cultural responsibility that accompanies their work. ENDS