The event was a brainchild of two local poets, Edwin ‘Serurubele’ Moroka and Emmanuel ‘Mmasekgethu’ Boefelo. The duo performed alongside Sekhutlwana sa Bannye, Poo tshweu and Segopa sa Poko from South Africa.
While all eyes were on Serurubele and Mmasekgethu for obvious reasons that they are the hosts, performances by Sekhutlwana sa Bannye left a lasting impression. The youngsters’ ability to recite poems was an absolute awe that left revellers really impressed.
Their command of Setswana and confidence was outstanding. For poets their age, both girls and boys already have that folklore Setswana poetic rhythm. Their creativity was amazing, with one of them reciting her poem by interchanging Ikalanga and Setswana. They really demonstrated that they are the future of Setswana poetry. Mmasekgethu, with his poem titled Lentswe lame, was just exciting.
From the time he ascended to the stage, it was clear that he was on his element. The crowd was cheering him on as he recited his poem, with his use of strong Setswana words.
He is not afraid to tap into what many would deem foul-tasting as he goes into self-praise. Boefelo is a poet, award winning culture promoter, radio teacher and writer and that was reflected in the manner in which he recited his poem. When Serurubele took over, he sent the crowd into a frenzy. His grandstand entrance was calculated alongside his remarkable ululator.
The duo complimented each other on stage much to the delight of the crowd. Segopa sa Poko was also outstanding. He showed his versatility as well as his knowledge of the local tribal history through his poem much to the amusement of the crowd. For a South African, he also has the rhythm that is associated with the local poets.
The occasion did not turn out to be just a poetry session, but an entertainment jamboree. There were also contemporary traditional performances by Sua Pan and Dilomakwati Traditional Group, whose performances sealed Ntwa ya Puo as a special treat for poetry enthusiasts.
